ABOUT IM=X PILATES

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?
Pilates was developed 70 years ago and IM=X® updates its concepts and practice reflecting the newest research on fitness and rehabilitation. For this reason, IM=X has been described as "next evolution of Pilates". The original Pilates Method was created by Joseph H. Pilates beginning in the 1930's and culminating in the 1950's -- when he was training the dance community in NYC. Although traditional pilates is a great workout system, IM=X Pilates adds resistance and cardio training so that you can receive all of the benefits in one program. The IM=X sequences are more fatigue oriented and the "choreography" focuses on addressing the strength of muscle synergies through innovative program options: Stretch, Cardio, Abs, Upper Body, Lower Body, Interval Training, Pre/Postnatal, Golf/Tennis, etc.

IM=X, founded in 1996, has developed eight instructor certifications and over 50 choreographed workouts. The scientific principles and education behind IM=X® is based on the research of the last two decade and is unique to the pilates industry. In many ways, IM=X picks up where J.H. Pilates left off. We now know that low impact muscle toning is healthier for the joints, and the spine stabilization system needs to be aligned and fit. The IM=X® Pilates Program is a wonderful evolution of the original Pilates system. IM=X can be targeted to specific populations (i.e. athletes, seniors, back pain, pregnancy...); or tailored for a specific focus (i.e. Lower Body Workout, Interval Training Workout, Stretch Workout, Basics, Upper Body Workout and more...) The variation within the IM=X® Pilates makes it possible to address everyone from the "couch potato" to the professional athlete.

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. IM=X Pilates is a program that tones the whole body with amazing efficiency. It is an approach to exercise that develops spine stabilization, muscle endurance/strength and flexibility -- it is beneficial to everyone. Typically, a new client begins with the basics as taught privately or in a beginners class. By developing the proper technique clients of all ages progress to more demanding classes such as Interval Training, Cardio or Lower Body. Our clients range from the Mets baseball players to seniors with disabilities. The IM=X Pilates education prepares instructors and personal trainers to adapt session formats for clients of all different fitness levels. There are over 50 IM=X Pilates formats that are taught to instructors through a series of eight certifications. There are specialized programs designed for professional athletes, pregnant women and people with back pain. And, as participants progress through the program, the sequences and combination of moves become increasingly more challenging, so IM=X is never boring.

What kind of results can be achieved with an IM=X® workout?
The combination of strengthening and lengthening exercises develops long, lean muscles, improves posture, 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.

Where can I take an IM=X® Pilates workout?
IM=X Pilates, Inc. has been certifying instructors in its basic programming for over a decade. More recently IM=X Pilates began offering franchise studios in order to provide the best service possible. An IM=X Pilates Studio will have staff who are certified in the popular basic program AND in the more diverse and challenging advanced programs. At the IM=X Pilates Studios you will find the variety of classes that make IM=X the most exciting and extensive workout system available. To find an IM=X Pilates Studio, click here!

Who is the founder of IM=X Pilates?
Elyse McNergney is the founder of the IM=X Pilates Program. She holds a M.Ed. in Exercise Physiology from Columbia University and a M.A. in Movement Sciences from New York University. Certified in the Pilates Method and Alexander Technique in 1992, Elyse has worked with professional athletes, dancers and patients with back pain. Elyse designed the IM=X Pilates Certification Courses and patented reformer equipment to provide a more durable and athletic pilates system to the fitness club market. Elyse produced the IM=X Video Series and has guest lectured at the World Fitness IDEA Conference, the IDEA Mind/Body Conference, ECA, the World Spinning Conference, the Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Conference. She and her team at IM=X Pilates, Inc. have helped thousands of facilities launch their pilates programs (i.e. New York Sports Clubs, Washington Sports Clubs, Boston Sports Clubs, Gold's Gyms, Dolphin Fitness, Synergy, Jewish Community Centers, YMCAs, Island Sports Clubs, Road Runner's Club, IM=X Pilates Studios, Private Corporate Fitness Clubs at American Express, HBO, Bristol Meyers Squibb, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and more! ). Elyse founded the franchise company to provide a system of supporting the growth of the IM=X Pilates system. IM=X is supported by a group of Master Trainers that have a wealth of experience and extensive background with IM=X Pilates, Inc. These Master Trainers impart the proprietary programs to instructors who then operate, manage and train at the IM=X Pilates Studio franchises.