Frequently asked questions 

What is Pilates?

 Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, who opened his first studio in New York in 1926, Pilates has evolved as a modern, intelligent movement practice with benefits for all bodies.

It offers a low-impact, highly effective method to build strength and at the same time promote flexibility. Movements are performed with precision and control whilst focusing on proper alignment of the joints. Attention is given moreover to alignment of the body as an entire structure—a living architecture—with exercises designed to target the deep postural muscles to improve core stability and provide functional benefits in daily life. 

The result is a resilient, strong body freed of tension. 

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates incorporates resistance through the use of spring tension to both challenge and support the body.  

Whilst providing a highly effective workout, the Reformer also offers a host of therapeutic applications. Imbalances within the body are addressed, and clients often benefit from the increased feedback that the Reformer offers, helping to develop a better awareness of where the body is in space. Through careful control of the spring tension, exercises can be adapted to the requirements of the individual, making it an excellent tool in rehabilitation as well as for those who want to progress their matwork practice.

By working with resistance to challenge stability you will build greater strength and stamina as well as balance, whilst developing your technique towards controlled flowing movement. 

Is Pilates right for me?

With benefits ranging from increased strength, stamina and flexibility through to improved posture, balance and coordination, Pilates has something to offer everybody. 

With its emphasis on good alignment, Pilates can be especially beneficial for people suffering with back or joint pain, or recovering from injury. It is important however to practise at the right level for you and often it is by (re)focusing on the fundamentals that the most benefit is found.

By encouraging concentration and awareness of movement and breath, Pilates also invites a deeper connection between mind and body with transformative potential for the whole person. 

Which is better: Matwork or Reformer?

Joseph Pilates designed the Reformer to aid his students on the mat─with especial benefits in cases of rehabilitation─and the two are intended to work together. So, whilst it depends on your goals and what you enjoy, for most people a combination of both is the best approach.

How many sessions do I need, and how often?

Pilates famously said that “You will feel better in ten sessions, look better in twenty sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.”

Whilst it can, however, take a few sessions to begin to understand the approach and its terminology, clients often start to notice subtle differences within the first few weeks. After a few months, as new movement patterns become established, many people report that pain is reduced, and changes in posture may start to become evident. 

For most people I recommend ideally a combination of one matwork session and one to two Reformer sessions a week, but it really depends on what works for you and your lifestyle. Pilates is a practice to last you a lifetime, and one that deepens and evolves with time and commitment. The ‘right number’ of sessions is however many you feel you can commit to with regularity, and indeed that may change over time depending on what you want and need from the practice. 

What should I wear?

You should wear something comfortable that you can move freely in. Form fitting clothing can help a teacher better see the lines of the body, but the most important thing is your comfort. 

We operate a no-shoes policy within the main area of the studio. Socks should be worn on the Reformer and Pilates grip socks are recommended. A selection of grip socks is available for purchase at the studio. You are welcome to practise matwork barefoot if you prefer. 

Do I need to bring anything with me? 

All equipment is provided. 

Filtered water and glasses are also provided, although you are welcome to bring your own water bottle. All other food and drink is not permitted inside the studio. 

Anything else?

Get in contact.