What should I wear to class?
Please just wear something that you feel comfortable moving around in. It is helpful if your clothing is reasonably close fitting so that the instructor can see how your body is moving, so gym leggings/trousers or sports shorts and a t-shirt are fine. Footwear is not required - exercises are done either bare foot or socks.
What do I need to bring?
We ask all class members to bring their own mat and a filled water bottle. You may wish to bring a block, rolled up towel or cushion (for additional support in certain exercises). We advise that mats should be of a good thickness (between 8-15mm) and full length for your body. Yoga mats, which tend to be quite thin, are generally not suitable.
What should I expect?
Classes are kept small (8-12 max) and designed so that you feel comfortable. Exercises have various ‘layers’ or levels so can be adapted to all abilities. Pilates focuses a lot on technique and will always challenge you! It can take a while to understand the techniques, especially during the first few sessions, but please don’t worry, you won’t be alone! Just give yourself time for your body to adapt and adjust to the exercises. We want you to enjoy the sessions for you and everyone is invited to go at the own pace – we are all different!
What happens in a class?
All classes include a brief warm up and mobilisation of the body, followed by a mixture of mat-based exercises (standing and floor work) to improve mobility and strength, ending with a variety of stretches. Some classes will also include a relaxation phase to conclude. Classes are usually 45-60 minutes in duration.
How will Pilates benefit me?
There are many benefits to doing Pilates on a regular basis. It improves flexibility, strengthens core muscles, improves balance and co-ordination, reduces stress, improves posture, reduces aches and pains and the risk of injury. It also develops body awareness and you will start to think differently about your posture, how you sit, how you stand. Pilates is great for relieving muscle tension, which naturally builds due to our jobs and every day activities. Many people find it relaxing and a very mindful form of exercise.
Will Pilates make me more flexible?
Yes! Each exercise emphasises lengthening and strengthening all the muscles. Your muscles will become more flexible over time – Pilates involves working your muscles and each class or session normally ends with stretching exercise to further develop flexibility. The key is to exercise regularly and you will notice the difference over time.
Is Pilates suitable for men as well as women?
Absolutely, yes! Pilates was in fact developed by a Joseph Pilates, who trained military, gymnasts and dancers, many of whom were men. Many top athletes, both male and female, incorporate Pilates into their regular training programmes. It is suitable for everyone.
Why do I need to commit to a block of classes?
Pilates is best practised regularly over time – it is not a quick fix. As mentioned, it does focus on technique and this takes time to develop, enabling you to listen and understand your body better. Hence we encourage you to come for at least 6 sessions. Hopefully you’ll love it so much you won’t want to stop!