Who can benefit from Pilates?
Because Pilates focuses on movement, it is a system of exercise that can benefit absolutely everyone. Athletes, the elderly, those with back injuries, new mothers – Pilates is perfect for those who want to gain strength, mobility and stability and get more out of their day to day activities. Read more about the benefits of Pilates here.

What happens in a Pilates session?
A Pilates session consists of a sequence of exercises designed to target all areas of the body and increase strength, tone and flexibility. The exercises are performed on a mat or while seated or standing and are sometimes aided by the use of equipment. There are hundreds of Pilates exercises which can be tailored to your body’s specific needs, so classes need never become boring and repetitive!

What should I wear?
Comfortable, close-fitting clothes are best for Pilates, as this makes it easy for me to see your alignment as you move. Layers are useful as you warm up during a class. Shoes are not needed, socks are optional.

How much Pilates should I be doing?
Like any exercise program, the results you see will reflect the time you put in. Once a week will give you results, but three or four sessions will lead to much greater progress. If you can't manage a session more than once a week, we can develop a home practice program for you, or I'll recommend a good book or DVD.

How soon will I see results?
Progress varies between different people, it depends where your body is at when you start, and what your goals are. With three sessions a week, either with a teacher or in your home practice, you should feel a difference in your body within just a few weeks.

What is the equipment for?
Several pieces of small and large equipment have been developed to be used with Pilates exercises. In many cases they make an exercise easier for a client who is not ready for the full version, or they may add an extra challenge for an advanced client. The large studio equipment is exceptionally valuable in adapting exercises for specific needs, and can be great fun as well!

Will Pilates help me lose weight?
Pilates exercises will generally not increase your heart rate enough for you to lose weight, the focus is on strengthening and flowing movement rather than cardiovascular fitness. Pilates assists indirectly, however, by increasing muscle mass, strength and flexibility, making your cardio workouts more effective and enjoyable.

Pilates looks a lot like Yoga, is it the same?
Joseph Pilates drew on many disciplines as he developed his method and Yoga was one of them. He also used elements of strength training, martial arts and athletics principles.