FAQs

In simple terms, Pilates is a series of exercises that aim to help improve strength, flexibility and posture. the focus is on strengthening your core muscles (namely your abdominal and back muscles) but actually every part of your body will benefit from regular Pilates sessions. Not only can it help physically but it can also be a great stress-reliever.

Pilates can either be done using a mat (and potentially with some small props such as a ball or hand weights), or using bigger pieces of specialist equipment. Both have their benefits and will challenge the body in different ways, however the equipment allows for a greater variety of exercises.

On first impression, the specialist equipment used in the studio can look a bit intimidating but please don’t worry, they’re not as terrifying as they may seem! Each piece of kit works by using a series of springs, pulleys and / or straps which help you to strengthen, improve your alignment and tone even more.  It’s great fun and there are so many different ways of using the equipment that you’ll constantly be discovering new exercises and finding strength you never knew you had!

Please check out my promotional video for further explanation.

While there are similarities in terms of benefiting balance and strength, the movements and techniques can be quite different. They are also different in origin. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, while elements of Yoga are at least 5,000 years old. Yoga’s origin was to prepare the body for meditation, whereas Pilates is designed to strengthen and improve body functions, particularly the core. Yoga is more spiritually-focused and concerned with connecting to the inner self, whereas Pilates uses mindfulness to connect to the body and is concerned with holistic wellbeing.

Yes. Pilates strengthens muscles designed to support the back, particularly the core, and can improve posture and reduce chronic back pain.

Absolutely not! The whole point of Pilates is to improve strength and flexibility. If you start with limited flexibility, it shouldn’t take too long for you to notice a real difference.

Yes! This is definitely not just for the ladies.  It’s a superb form of exercise for men and I am actively on a mission to get more men to try it and discover the physical and mental benefits Pilates can bring.

Absolutely anyone can benefit. The beauty of Pilates is that it honestly doesn’t matter whether you’re young, old, male, female, flexible, sporty, living life a bit on the sedentary side, getting back into shape after having a baby or recovering from an injury.

I will create a tailor-made programme of exercises that are specific to your needs. This will involve a combination of both mat and equipment exercises and, as you build your strength and confidence, you will have the opportunity to try more challenging exercises to keep you motivated. There are over 500 exercises to choose from so one thing is guaranteed: you will never get bored!  I like to inject a bit of humour and lightheartedness into the proceedings because, in my opinion, exercise should be there to be enjoyed not endured!

Gym kit - like leggings, tracksuit bottoms or shorts and a T-shirt - works well. The important thing is for the clothes to be comfortable and easy to move around in without restricting you in any way.  You should also wear a clean pair of socks – it’s not essential to buy specialist Pilates socks with non-slip soles, although some people prefer these.

Pilates isn’t really a cardio workout but don’t let that fool you into thinking you won’t work hard! You may want to bring some water to keep hydrated.

Single lesson: £50

Block of 5 lessons: £235 (works out as £47 per lesson)

Block of 10 lessons: £450 (works out as £45 per lesson)

Please note if you need to cancel your lesson, you must give at least 24 hours' notice otherwise you will be charged for your lesson.

I completely understand that trying something new can feel a bit nerve-racking. My aim is to make you feel as comfortable as possible and if you want to have a chat with me before you sign up, then let me know and I’ll be only too happy to talk through any of your questions.

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