Classes in St. Ives & Over, Cambridgeshire

What’s so special about Pilates?

Pilates is perhaps more dynamic than yoga but not as sweaty and high-impact as aerobics, running or gym-work which, unlike Pilates, can all place strain on the joints.  Whereas most forms of exercise build the body’s stronger muscles – the muscles that move you - Pilates works as much - or more - on the body’s deep postural muscles that support you. The result is a properly balanced body, with better joint mobility, a firm musculature and good, natural posture.  Pilates helps you achieve a better posture by strengthening the centre of the body so that it supports your lower back, strengthening the abdominals and helping you achieve good alignment.  Whereas many kinds of exercise aim to raise your general fitness, specific Pilates exercise are used to isolate and strengthen particular muscles or tackle a particular problem with precision.

Pilates is a gentle, non-aerobic exercise method, which produces a healthy, toned, mobile body and calm, relaxed mind.

 

Is Pilates for me?

Anyone can benefit from regular Pilates classes and by applying the knowledge and skills learnt in class to their activities of daily living or other exercise regimes.  I am passionate about improving posture and improving joint health as well as helping you try to undo the strains and pains from sitting hunched in front of a computer screen or steering wheel, picking up and carrying children or even hours working in the garden.

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What about men?  Many top sportsmen incorporate Pilates into their training regimes and Pilates is a wonderful addition to other sports and exercise programmes to lengthen and strengthen the body.

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For the older population keeping active is essential.  Pilates is low impact and therefore perfect for older adults to practice on a regular basis. Maintaining good movement patterns and keeping our joints strong and healthy is important throughout our lives. We can discuss your requirements and find the right level class for you.  I am qualified to teach those with osteoporosis and osteopenia  - Pilates can help you gain confidence in your body again and assist you to manage the condition.

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If you have injuries or on-going medical conditions your doctor or physiotherapist or medical professional may advise certain movement restrictions.  We can discuss this further and decide if you are able to join a class now or in the future.  Otherwise everyone can perform Pilates exercises; you will never be made to do anything you don’t want to do and I understand that some days we feel stronger than others.  You choose the level of exercise that is right for you – on that day.

 

What should I expect in a class?

Classes are relaxed and friendly and allow you to exercise in a non-competitive environment - and really quite good fun! Classes are small so clients can receive individual attention. A different lesson is taught each week so there's lots of variety. Pilates may be something completely new to you and after the first session you may feel that you just don’t ‘get it’. Give it time!  Nobody is a born natural.  You work hard to get good and work even harder to get better.

Do I need to bring any equipment along to a class?
Yes, you will need to bring some small equipment to class as well as your mat. I list the equipment that is required each week on the home page of this site.

What should I wear?
Pilates is best performed in clothing that lets you move and stretch comfortably e.g. gym trousers or leggings and a t-shirt. Avoid dangling jewellery, jeans and belts. You will not require footwear during the class as Pilates is done either with bare feet or grippy socks.   If you wear shorts, put running shorts on underneath; some exercises can leave you showing more than you - or your classmates - would be happy to see...

 

Why are classes run in terms?
To get the best results, Pilates should be practised regularly, allowing you to develop and  consolidate your skills over the duration of the course.  Courses are run in 5 - 8 week terms and clients book for the entire term.  Unlike some other forms of fitness classes, Pilates doesn't lend itself well to a drop-in format. I need to know the bodies I am teaching!

What if I miss a class?
If you miss a class you have the opportunity swap to another class in the same week at another point during that term, providing there is space available. Alternatively you can request a recording of that week's class which you can access via a link.

 

What about COVID?

If you would prefer to wear a mask for any part of the class, please go ahead.

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Do you teach online classes?

Yes. I teach live online classes on Thursday mornings in small groups. Please click on the link below for health and safety considerations when exercising at home.

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