What is Pilates?
Pilates is a gentle, non-aerobic exercise method, which lengthens and strengthens the muscles, and improves posture, without stressing the joints or the heart. Physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and doctors now recommend Pilates as one of the safest forms of exercise available.
Long popular among dancers, gymnasts and others who knew of it, Pilates has now been discovered by a wider public – from those who want a stronger back or flatter stomach to those with specific injuries or medical problems that Pilates can help; or simply those who want to get fit or de-stress.
Wherever you learn Pilates, you should make sure that your teacher is properly qualified, since Pilates taught by someone without the right training can do you more harm than good. Many exercise teachers in gyms and elsewhere now include Pilates exercises in their classes despite themselves never having had any Pilates training at all. We all connect with class environments and people differently and if my classes are not for you please contact me for highly recommended local teachers.
Long popular among dancers, gymnasts and others who knew of it, Pilates has now been discovered by a wider public – from those who want a stronger back or flatter stomach to those with specific injuries or medical problems that Pilates can help; or simply those who want to get fit or de-stress.
Wherever you learn Pilates, you should make sure that your teacher is properly qualified, since Pilates taught by someone without the right training can do you more harm than good. Many exercise teachers in gyms and elsewhere now include Pilates exercises in their classes despite themselves never having had any Pilates training at all. We all connect with class environments and people differently and if my classes are not for you please contact me for highly recommended local teachers.
What does Pilates do that other types of exercise does not?
Pilates is more dynamic than yoga but less aggressive, sweaty and high-impact than aerobics, jogging or gym-work, which, unlike Pilates, can all place damaging strain on the joints and/or heart.
Whereas most forms of exercise build the body’s stronger muscles, Pilates exercises strengthen the weaker ones too. The result is a properly balanced body, with better joint mobility, a firm musculature and good, natural posture.
Pilates helps you achieve such posture by strengthening the centre of the body so that it supports your lower back, helping you to stand straight and hold your upper body correctly.
Whereas most forms of exercise build the body’s stronger muscles, Pilates exercises strengthen the weaker ones too. The result is a properly balanced body, with better joint mobility, a firm musculature and good, natural posture.
Pilates helps you achieve such posture by strengthening the centre of the body so that it supports your lower back, helping you to stand straight and hold your upper body correctly.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
- A stronger, healthier back
- A more toned, mobile and flexible body
- A leaner, longer look
- A flatter stomach
- A better body shape
- A better balance between strength and suppleness
- Better posture
- A more neutral spine
- A taller gait
- Easier, fuller movement
- Better coordination
- Greater body awareness
- Injury prevention and rehabilitation
- Gain without pain
- Relief from stress
- General fitness
- A sense of calm and well-being
Who can benefit from Pilates?
Pilates is particularly suitable for:
- The middle-aged and elderly
- The desk-bound and inactive
- The pregnant and post-natal
- Those needing pre and post operation strengthening
- Those referred by their doctor, physio, osteopath, chiropractor or other practitioner
- Back pain, back-ache and other back problems
- Scoliosis/curvature of the spine
- Poor posture and rounded shoulders
- Neck and shoulder pains or problems
- Stiffness, joint pains and muscle pains, whether caused by arthritis/ osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia etc
- Injuries: sports injuries and others
- RSI
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Whiplash
- Stress
How do I start?
If you've never done Pilates before the best way to start is by giving me a call or sending an email and arranging a one-off lesson to see what Pilates is all about. This way you don't have to commit to a course before knowing if it's for you.
If you've done Pilates before and want to join a course please contact me to see if there is an available space. Unfortunately, due to classes being very popular, you are unable to just turn up.
I will ask you to complete a physical activity readiness questionnaire (PARQ) that asks you a series of questions about your medical history, current health, fitness and objectives.
If you've done Pilates before and want to join a course please contact me to see if there is an available space. Unfortunately, due to classes being very popular, you are unable to just turn up.
I will ask you to complete a physical activity readiness questionnaire (PARQ) that asks you a series of questions about your medical history, current health, fitness and objectives.
What do I need to wear?
Any comfortable, loose clothing, such as a t-shirt with leggings or tracksuit bottoms. Try to avoid any bottoms with a heavy seam on the side as this can be uncomfortable to lean on. If you are daring enough to wear Lycra this is the best clothing for ease of movement and no accidental flash of skin! Shoes are taken off for Pilates so you may want to wear socks in the winter!
