One of the best things about Pilates is that you can start at any age and any level of fitness.  The exercises can be tailored to meet your own specific requirements and abilities.  Because the movements are gentle and low or no impact on joints, it is the ideal way to start exercising.

 

I have a bad back. Will I be able to do pilates?
Although you should always consult your GP before starting any fitness routine, Pilates is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions.   What is more important is that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure that you are doing the movements correctly. An experienced instructor will modify exercises to accommodate your limitations and tailor an exercise programme accordingly, continually challenge you within your range and monitor your improvements. If you commit yourself to regular practice within your capabilities you will certainly feel results.
 

How long before I notice results?

This depends a little on your own expectations and goals. Many people report an immediate ‘change’ after their first session saying they feel much more aware of their bodies, longer and more energised than when they arrived.

 

 It is recommended that Pilates is practised several times a week over an extended period to get the best results. 

 

What’s the difference between a mat work class and a private session?

In a matwork class, you will be in a class of up to 12 students.   The session will be a general exercise programme taking your body through a range of movements to increase flexibility, strengthen and stretch muscles and release tension.

 

In a private session you will be taught on a one-to-one basis (or 2 of you in a BuddyUp session).  The session is much more tailored to your specific needs and abilities.   In a private session we may also use a range of props and equipment to enhance the exercises.    Private sessions are recommended for rehabilitation from injury, chronic back pain and where you require a tailored exercise programme.   Due to the individual nature of the sessions, you may experience results more quickly than you will in the matwork classes.

 

 

What’s a Reformer?

The reformer is a unique piece of equipment designed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s.  It is a sliding ‘bed’ which uses pulleys and resistance from your own body weight on the machine and graduates levels of springs to load resistance.   There is a full repertoire of exercises which can then be performed on the machine to provide stabilisation, resistance and alignment work.   The Reformer allows you to ‘feel’ your muscles and body working in a completely different way to matwork.  It is also ideally suited to rehabilitation.      

 

 

Will I get the same results with a mat workout as with a Reformer/equipment workout?
Mat-based workouts are very convenient and they can be done anywhere. However, a mat workout will provide no added resistance. A Reformer workout will add resistance to the exercises you practice and can correct muscular imbalances better than a mat routine would.

 

How do I get started?

Before joining a class or starting studio sessions, I generally see every client for an initial consultation.  This session is to introduce you to the Pilates method and is a chance for me to develop some knowledge about your own body; to assess your posture, any injuries you may have had, your current level of fitness, your current movement patterns and so from there be able to tailor a suitable and safe exercise programme. 

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