WHAT IS PILATES?

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Pilates is a safe and accessible form of exercise, suitable for all ages, genders and abilities. At its core (pun intended!), Pilates connects body and mind, focusing on precise and efficient movement. It's wonderfully simple to practise, in that all that is required is a mat (provided), though we also use small pieces of equipment such as balls, resistance bands and toning circles (also provided!) to spice things up a bit. 

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Ultimately, Pilates aims to enable our bodies to do what they should be able to do - something that is often easier said than done. Alongside developing body-awareness, major benefits include:

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• Improved mobility, flexibility and posture

• A strengthened core

• Mindfulness, stress-relief and relaxation

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Many people find that Pilates allows them to manage chronic back, shoulder and hip discomfort; it is a practice where you are constantly learning how to help your body. Whether you want to strengthen your abdominals, relieve shoulder tension, or improve your performance in sports, Pilates can help you achieve your goals.

 

Pilates is also extremely useful for pre and postnatal women - click here to read more about why. I am fully trained to teach pregnant ladies and new mums, and offer 1:1s and dedicated classes in a supportive and kind environment.

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I trained with the prestigious Body Control Pilates and offer small-group classes and private Pilates sessions from my home studio in Trinity Rise, Herne Hill. Alternatively, I may be able to travel to you. My group classes are purposely small - this means that you get plenty of attention and a more tailored experience. This is invaluable if you're a beginner, but will also help you develop if you are intermediate or advanced.

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Please see 'Timetable' for pricing and more information.

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FAQs

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Isn't Pilates just Yoga?

No! While both Yoga and Pilates are body and mind disciplines, they are very different. Yoga often focuses on static poses with flowing transitions between them, while Pilates is much more fluid: we are rarely still, with each exercise focusing on achieving graceful and controlled movement. 

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Of late, Yoga seems to have garnered a lot of attention, particularly on social media: its beautiful and challenging poses are very 'Instagrammable'. Pilates might not look as pretty, but it focuses on functional movements useful in everyday life - we unlock stiffness and build strength from our centre.

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Finally, it's worth noting that Pilates tends to offer better relief to those suffering with sciatica, since the 'forward folds' associated with Yoga can aggravate the condition.

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Is Pilates suitable for men?

Yes! It's a misconception that Pilates is just for women. Like anyone, many men find that it can help them manage discomfort in their bodies, but Pilates can also help build a deep core strength and mobility in the joints. Many find that Pilates is a good complement to other sports and gym activities, since it focuses on balancing the body and preventing injuries. 

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Isn't Pilates just for old people?

No! While many older people practise Pilates, it really is for everyone. But there's a reason that older people often opt for the discipline: it's safe and easily adaptable for any niggles that might have arisen in the body over the years. This adaptability doesn't just benefit the more senior generation, though: we should all opt for an exercise programme that is good for our bodies. Note that being safe is not the same as being easy: come for a free taster class, and you'll see what I mean!

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How often should I do Pilates?

Coming to Pilates once a week should be enough for you to notice changes. However, to really make progress, it's ideal to try to attend Pilates classes two or three times a week - you'll notice an improvement in both your strength and mobility.

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Why should I choose you rather than the Pilates class at my gym?

There are many wonderful Pilates teachers in gyms (and I teach in gyms too!). However, what is undeniable are the large class sizes there. This can make it very difficult for teachers to correct participants, or to focus their class on anyone's particular aims or needs. My group classes are purposely small (a maximum of 6 people per class) so that I can tailor them to my clients' goals and give you all the attention you need to keep you safe and moving well. 

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How do I get started?

Have a think about whether you'd like private or group classes, take a look at the timetable, and get in touch!

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