Stretch | Move | Strengthen
FLEXIBILITY. PRECISION. CO-ORDINATION... PILATES.
About Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of exercising developed by Joseph Pilates in the early to mid 20th century and was originally known as Contrology. The aim was the complete control of body, mind and spirit which is often difficult to attain in our increasingly frenetic lifestyles. Subsequent to Joseph Pilates death it was rebranded as Pilates and is now practised all over the world by people from every walk of life.
Who was Joseph Pilates?
Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1883. From a young age he was
interested in a variety of physical activities. He moved to England in 1912
and earned his living as a boxer, circus-performer and self-defence trainer.
He was interned during World War I and it was during this time that he developed his technique which later became Contrology. After World War I he returned to Germany, but in 1925 he emigrated to the US; enroute he met his future wife, Clara. The couple founded a studio in New York and there taught Contrology together until the 1960s. Joseph Pilates died in New York in 1967, aged 83 years old.
What are the benefits of practising Pilates?
Pilates helps to develop your body and with time, can correct posture, redress physical inequalities (most of us are stronger in one side of our body than the other). Focussing on yourself during a class will also give a mental boost to accompany the physical one. All Pilates exercises focus on at least one of three areas: flexibility, strength and stability. All forms of exercise are beneficial in today's often sedentary world, but they can lead to physical imbalances. Pilates will help to correct these imbalances and in so doing will lead to improvements in all other exercise you do. For this reason it is used as a complimentary form of exercise by many, including elite athletes.
Is Pilates suitable for me?
The pilates method is suitable for all ages and abilities. There are certain groups who may need to seek specialist classes (e.g. those under the age of 15 years) but everyone can benefit. If you have any particular areas you would like to focus on, please contact me before your class and I will endeavour to accommodate you.
How often do I need to do Pilates?
As with all forms of exercise, the more time you can commit the more quickly you will notice the results. Joseph Pilates would expect his clients to attend a Pilates class three times a week. In today’s world many of us find this unattainable, but once a week, for an hour is a great place to start!
What are matwork classes?
These are the type of classes I offer, the exercises were developed by Joseph Pilates for his pupils to perform at home everyday. They are usually performed on the floor and the only equipment required is a mat. They work every part of the body and each exercise has many variations and levels so that classes allow each participant to progress at his or her own pace and also remain mentally and physically challenging, no matter how long you have followed the Pilates methodology.
What should I wear?
Gymwear is usual for a Pilates class, as it is comfortable and does not restrict movement. Trainers etc. are not worn but some people like to wear socks, others prefer bare feet.
Do classes run as courses?
Although I plan my classes to run as 6 or 7 week courses, with a theme for each course, I currently offer both pre-paid course and pay-as-you-go basis options. However, to get the full benefit of the course it is naturally in your interest to attend each class!
My GP or physiotherapist has recommended Pilates, may I join any class?
Many health professionals are now recommending Pilates to patients to help them with specific complaints or to ease long-term conditions. In this situation please contact me before the class to discuss your individual needs. It may be that I need more information from your GP/physio before you can take part in a class or I may recommend that you join a specific class, so please let me know a few days in advance.
Is Pilates suitable ante-/post-natal?
Keeping fit and active during pregnancy will help you to cope with the changes to and demands on your body both during and after pregnancy. As a low-impact form of exercise, Pilates is often preferred during pregnancy and as a whole body form of exercise, it can be very beneficial. I welcome pregnant ladies in any of my classes however, there may be certain circumstances where I might recommend that a specific ante-/post-natal class would be more suitable for you. (Due to the changing hormones in your body it is important to let me know as soon as you think you might be pregnant, or if you have recently been pregnant, so that you do not overstretch.)
