​Pilates is a low-impact - but by no means easy - form of exercise.

 

People often find themselves seeking Pilates once they experience the following: 

• Back pain

• Niggles and aches

• Slouching due to poor posture

• Working long hours sitting at a desk or driving

• Feeling tight and stiff

• Poor Balance

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But you don't have to wait for this to happen - Pilates is excellent for building strength and is fantastic for doing alongside other sports to enhance your performance. 

 

I hear regularly from my clients that they are feeling stronger, more flexible, have less pain after sport or gardening, and doing the things they love! 

 

It was believed by Joseph Pilates who created this form of exercise (which he called 'Contrology') that it was important to build the core muscles which are the foundation of the body, for the rest of the body to work at its optimum.

 

"A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of doing sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion." - Joseph Pilates

 

Pilates is a safe and great way to lengthen, strengthen and work your body to improve your posture, core and back strength, flexibility and balance.

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Pilates can be performed on the apparatus (equipment such as Reformer, Tower, Chair, Spine Corrector to name a few), or, most commonly on the mat. Originally, the apparatus was designed to help strengthen the client, so the mat exercises could be done correctly...as the true mat exercises are hardest of all!  

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Mat classes are most common as very little equipment is needed (just your mat and your body!) making it more affordable and accessible. Joining a regular class you will slowly build on strength to work towards the more difficult exercises over time.

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FAQ: 

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What happens at the first session (private sessions)?

I will introduce you to the equipment and we can discuss any specifics you might like to go over, or any specific goals you might like to achieve. Then we hit the ground running so you get the most out of your session!

 

Is Pilates only for people with an injury or condition?

Absolutely not! Pilates is a safe and fun way to exercise. It is perfect for any age or fitness level and a fantastic way to strengthen, lengthen and tone the body. It will improve your posture, flexibility and strength which will aid in the prevention of injuries. It also helps to improve performance with sports. 

 

What if I do have an injury or physical limitation?

Please call me to discuss first. Most of the time it will be perfectly safe to begin Pilates, as we can adapt the exercises so they are appropriate for you. However, if you have a new/acute injury, or something you have struggled with for a long time, it is usually best to start with private sessions.  

 

Is Pilates for Women only?

No way! Pilates was created by a man. He is quite famous for being pictured in his very short trunks, whatever the weather, and was in fabulous shape right up until his 80’s!

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I'm not very flexible, should I wait til I have stretched more?

I'm not very flexible - I hear this all of the time! Join a regular class and with consistency you will build strength and flexibility over time. Pilates is all about working the limbs and spine to find the longest reach. 

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Do I need to bring anything? What do I wear?

Private sessions: 

All you need to bring for a private session is a bottle of water and make sure you are wearing clean socks. All equipment will be provided. 

***Please NO clothing with zips or buttons as this can damage or tear the equipment vinyl*** (Gents, please check your jogging bottoms for zips at the ankle!).

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Group Classes:

You must bring your own mat. Please make sure it is a Pilates mat which is at least 10mm thick and not a thin yoga mat. We often 'roll' on our spines and if your mat is too thin this can be painful. It is helpful to have a resistance band (or belt or handtowel as alternatives). You can always buy the small props when you feel ready to commit long term. 

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For all sessions, loose and comfortable clothing that has plenty of stretch (no jeans) must be worn.