Anyone embarking on a fitness regime would be advised to seek guidance and incorporate specific Pilates’ exercises into any fitness exercise programme.
Is modified Pilates suitable for anyone?
The Pilates Institute’s Beginner Level modified exercises enables anyone, irrespective of age, injury, ability or posture to participate at a pace to suit their individual needs within their own range of ability. Whilst some participants will always work within a limited range of ability, others may progress and perform higher levels and even the original movements.
For more information click here for Pilates For Seniors
Can I just turn up to a class?
Class sizes are limited so you would be advised to contact me first to check availability.
Do I have to pay for a course or can I turn up weekly?
The benefits of Pilates will only be experienced when the exercises are performed regularly and consistently. A course of classes provides regularity of practice.
Those who pay in advance for a course of 8 weekly classes are guaranteed a regular weekly class place.
Those who wish to pay on a weekly basis may do so but cannot be guaranteed a regular weekly class place. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis to those who wish to pay weekly.
What should I wear?
Ideally, you should wear something comfortable that allows you to move freely and is snug fitting. Baggy clothing will hinder observation of alignment. Jeans or tight fitting trousers are not appropriate and should not be worn. Exercises are usually performed barefoot. If you prefer to wear socks, please ensure that they have a non-slip sole.
Do I need to bring anything with me?
You may be asked to bring a towel for certain exercises. All other equipment will be provided.
Can I attend classes if I am pregnant?
Pilates is especially beneficial during pregnancy due to posture changes that take place. Newcomers may start Beginner Level during the 1st or 2nd trimester as long as they have no health issues relating to the pregnancy and have visited their GP. Anyone who already attends a group mat work class and becomes pregnant may continue to attend Beginner Level as long as they have no health issues relating to their pregnancy and have visited their GP. They will be required to complete a new Pre-Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PARQ).
For more information click here for Pilates For Pregnancy
Will modified Pilates help those with low back pain or joint issues?
Yes. The modified exercises are safe and effective for anyone with low back or joint issues. I would ask you to seek advice and approval from your doctor or back physician first, especially if you have a specific condition.
What qualifications are needed to teach Pilates?
The Pilates Institute was involved in setting up the national standard for Pilates’ teacher training in 2002 - OCR (Oxford Cambridge) Level 2-Pilates Matwork. This was the first nationally accredited examination worldwide.
In 2004 work began on the Level 3 Matwork qualification with Skills Active and The Register of Exercise Porfessional (REPs).
The Pilates Institute, Alan Herdman, Body Control Pilates® and The Pilates Foundation worked together to create the new standard which was launched in September 2005 and The Pilates Institute’s Matwork Diploma Level 3 incorporates this qualification.