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Pilates is a gentle low impact, non-aerobic exercise method, which lengthens and strengthens the muscles, and improves posture/alignment, without stressing the joints or the heart. Pilates is recommended by health professionals as one of the safest forms of exercise available.
It takes its name from German-born Joseph Pilates, who came to Britain and then moved to America, and developed the exercise in the early part of the last century.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
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A stronger, healthier back
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A more toned, mobile and flexible body
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Leaner and longer body
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Toned abdominal area
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Improved balance
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Better posture and alignment
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Increased range of movement
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Better co-ordination
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Greater body awareness
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Injury prevention and rehabilitation
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A sense of calm, well-being and relaxation
Pilates is beneficial for everyone. It is popular with dancers, gymnasts, and athletes but it is equally suitable for most men and women, from children to 90, and beyond. Also beneficial for those who suffer from (not exhaustive):
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Back pain, back-ache, and other back problems
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Scoliosis/curvature of the spine
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Poor posture and rounded shoulders
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Neck and shoulder pains or problems
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Stiffness, joint pains, and muscle pains, whether caused by arthritis/ osteoarthritis,
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Fibromyalgia or other things
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A range of sports injuries and others
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Stress
Where are the classes based?
Please see the bookings page
Please see the bookings page for more information.
Please see the bookings page for more information on how to find venues.
Should I bring a mat?
Mats can be provided but you are welcome to bring your own
Can I do the classes if I am a beginner?
Yes, absolutely! All classes are adapted to your abilities.
Any comfortable, loose clothing, such as a T-shirt with leggings or tracksuit bottoms, or else shorts. Pilates is practised in socks or bare feet.
Please see the bookings page for more information.
60 minutes per face to face class or online
Can I do a private session?
It is possible to book 1:1 private sessions which last 60 minutes, I can come to your home or arrange an alternative location.
People do Pilates anywhere from once a week to once a day – but twice a week is common and what is generally recommended. Even if you just take just one session a week, you should try to do at least a few minutes of Pilates – whether at home or work – on a daily basis.
When can I expect to see results?
‘In ten sessions’, suggested Joseph Pilates himself, ‘you will feel the difference; in 20 you will see the difference, and in 30 you will have a whole new body’. Most people do start to feel a difference after 10 sessions, getting the sense, for example, that they are walking taller and moving in a looser, suppler way.
Is it sufficient to do Pilates alone as the only form of exercise I need to take?
No, you should also take some form of aerobic exercise, such as walking, running, cycling, tennis or swimming – but preferably done in a way that does not place damaging strain on your body.
What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
There are similarities between yoga and pilates, both are low intensity, low impact and inclusive, unlike many other forms of exercise. Generally speaking, yoga is much more about flexibility and stability, pilates is strength and stability. With yoga there is more emphasis on holding the poses where pilates is more dynamic were the moves are flowing. Pilates also focuses more on strengthening the deepest layers of abdominal muscles, which form a corset around your torso.
Can I do Pilates when I am pregnant?
You should check with your doctor before doing any kind of exercise during pregnancy. However, Pilates tends to be particularly suitable for pregnant women, since it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens the back, stomach and pelvic floor muscles. I am not currently qualified to teach pilates to pregnant women.