FAQ’s

Faq’s

What Should I Wear?

Comfortable non-restrictive clothing and socks. Please avoid wearing clothing with metal buttons, zips or jewellery as they can hinder your movement, cause injury, or damage equipment.

Do Men Do Pilates?

Absolutely! Pilates is becoming increasingly more popular among men as a way of alleviating back pain, preventing injuries, and increasing core strength and flexibility. Pilates was originally invented by a man for men. We now have a Men Only Class. Refer to the class schedule for details.

Do I Need to Bring Anything?

Mats and equipment are provided at the studio and are sanitised between each class, however, during the current climate it is advised that you bring your own mat, head block/cushion if you can. The only item you would need to purchase is a long theraband which are available from the studio as we are unable to sanitise them.

Where Can I Buy Pilates Equipment?

You can purchase toe grip sox, mats and small equipment at the studio.

How Can I Pay?

Payment can be made by cash, cheque, paypal or bank transfer when booking.

What if I am Unable to Attend One of the Matwork Classes on the Course or a Studio Session?

Refunds cannot be given for unattended classes in a course, nor transferred to following courses.  However, there is the option to re-schedule to another class in the same block where there is availability or catch up on a virtual class. To cancel a studio session 36 hours notice is required (see terms and conditions 7).

HOW MANY TIMES A WEEK SHOULD I DO PILATES?

You should ideally try and practice two to three times per week with at least one session per week taught by a certified Pilates Instructor to ensure correct form and technique.  

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MATWORK AND APPARATUS?

Matwork training is done on an exercise mat and can be done with or without auxiliary equipment (magic circles, bands, Swiss balls, etc.) to increase the challenge or add support, and requires you to use your own body weight without any assistance.  Pilates apparatus (Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Barrel) provides assistance and support to help strengthen abdominals and lower back and allows for more work through the hip joints, shoulder complex, arms, and legs.  Pilates exercise apparatus is highly versatile.  It creates hundreds of exercise variations, is low-impact and easy on the joints.  It also allows for modifications for those with injuries and special conditions. The apparatus challenges your three-dimensional movement and coordination, and is suitable for a wide variety of clients from rehab to the elite athlete.  Pilates apparatus can assist you in maintaining your body alignment and form throughout the exercise until your own muscles are strong enough.

CAN I DO PILATES DURING PREGNANCY?

Providing your pregnancy is progressing well and your Doctor or Midwife agrees, then yes.

If you are a new client, you will not be able to commence pre-natal Pilates classes until after 12 weeks pregnant.  If you already take part in Pilates and subsequently discover you are pregnant, you may be able to continue with those classes until such time as it is appropriate for you to join a pre-natal Pilates class or if you prefer attend a studio session.

Post natal classes may commence 6 weeks after a normal delivery, and at least 10 weeks following a caesarean. Medical clearance to start exercising is required.

CAN’T I JUST LEARN PILATES FROM A DVD OR A BOOK?

We advise anyone new to Pilates to obtain instruction from an accredited Pilates Instructor to learn correct form and technique, otherwise there is a risk of injury.

ISN’T PILATES A BIT LIKE YOGA?

Whilst there are some similarities, which is unsurprising as Joseph Pilates studied both Eastern and Western disciplines of exercise and breathing, Pilates involves more dynamic and flowing movements whereas yoga consists of more static poses and stretches.

DO YOU TEACH THE ORIGINAL CLASSICAL REPERTOIRE OF MATWORK EXERCISES?

Yes, with modifications and variations provided to suit the individual or any physical condition where appropriate. However the classical repertoire is not appropriate for pregnancy, post natal or rehabilitation scenarios – modified Pilates will be taught instead, whilst still remaining true to the original fundamentals and principles of the classical method.

ARE YOU A PHYSIOTHERAPIST?

No, but neither was Joseph Pilates. If you are injured, you should seek medical attention from a Doctor, physiotherapist or other health practitioners. Thereafter, you may then commence Pilates exercise once you have been medically cleared to do so.

However, all Pilates Foundation trained instructors have undergone an intensive training programme which can last over a period of two years covering both the classical and modern repertoire of exercises, to include an in depth study of anatomy and physiology as well as rehabilitative techniques.  Joanna Reay, Principal Instructor, has trained with the Pilates Foundation for 2 years and is certified in matwork and apparatus.  She also holds a post graduate in Pre and Post Natal and is a certified Pink Ribbon Post Breast Cancer Rehabilitation Instructor and a Bowen Therapist.