The IM=X Pilates vision grew out of Elyse’s certifications in traditional pilates and the Alexander Technique, a M.A. in Movement Science and a M.Ed. in Exercise Physiology from Columbia University. Elyse and the IM=X Master Trainer team have extensive experience training and rehabilitating professional athletes, dancers and patients with back pain. IM=X Pilates has been featured at numerous health and fitness conventions including World Fitness IDEA Conference, the IDEA Mind/Body Conference, ECA, the World Spinning Conference, the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Conference. In addition, the IM=X Pilates DVD series has been sold world-wide; and Elyse recently authored IM=X Pilates for Men. You are in good hands with the IM=X Pilates certified instructors and personal trainers.

What is IM=X® (pronounced IMX)?
IM=X stands for Integrated Movement Xercize. It's an elite fitness formula that marries the muscle toning and lengthening benefits of pilates with elements of strength and cardio training to increase flexibility, endurance and muscle tone, while strengthening the spine and abdominal core.

How does IM=X® differ from Pilates?
IM=X is a cross-conditioning system that includes pilates moves but adds resistance training and plyometric jumps for a more athletically oriented workout so you can tone up and lose inches quickly. IM=X pilates workouts can be tailored for athletes, back pain, pregnancy or weight loss (i.e. Lower Body Workout, Interval Training Workout, Stretch Workout, Basics, Upper Body Workout and more...). The variation within IM=X makes it possible to address everyone from the "couch potato" to the professional athlete. Joseph Pilates developed his amazing method 70 years ago and IM=X simply updates its concepts and practice reflecting the newest research on fitness, cardiovascular training and spine stabilization. For this reason, IM=X has been described as "the next evolution of Pilates workouts."

Who can benefit from IM=X® training?
Everyone -- from fitness newbies to hard-core gym rats -- can benefit from IM=X. The program has been proven effective for all body types and fitness levels, regardless of age, weight or ability. There are specialized IM=X formats designed for weight loss, athletes, pregnancy, golf and people with back pain. And, the IM=X Pilates Studios offer Semi-Private Training Memberships so that you can receive the attention of a certified trainer without the price of one-on-one sessions.

What kind of results can be achieved with an IM=X® workout?
The combination of strengthening, cardiovascular and lengthening exercises develops long, lean muscles, improves posture, increases metabolism and adds flexibility to the spine. IM=X pilates changes body composition (muscle to fat ratio). It attacks excess bulk in the hips and thighs and tightens the body's core muscles for rock-hard abs. And, since IM=X targets the pelvic floor, it can also enhance sexual experience and prevent urinary incontinence (UI). Our members consistently report a significant loss of inches from attending 3 sessions weekly.

How do I get started in the IM=X® Pilates program?
We recommend several private sessions to learn the technique and the equipment. Then you can join our Semi-Private Training Membership Program where there can be 2-8 participants per session and a wide variety of class formats. As a Semi-Private Training Member you can attend as many sessions as you like with just one monthly fee.

How do I choose an instructor or personal trainer?
All of the personal trainers and instructors at the IM=X Pilates Studio franchise are qualified to provide you with this incredible training. Our franchises send their staff to our educational institute in New York City where they learn from Master Trainers who are leaders in the fitness industry. There are several levels of education provided to all franchise staff -- a process that is extensive, thorough and proprietary.

If I have had back problems should I take IM=X® Pilates?
The IM=X Pilates Programs can be tailored to your specific musculoskeletal strengths and weaknesses. In some instances, the certified trainer may request a medical release from your physician to ensure you are ready to exercise. If you have been seeing a physical therapist, the trainer may request a prescription. Our concern is tailoring this amazing program to your level. The IM=X fundamentals will address the stabilization of your spine and create strength in muscles you may not have felt for a while -- the deep muscles along the vertebrae. It is always recommended that you see an Advanced Certified IM=X Pilates Trainer if you have had any history of injury or discomfort.