Who Can do Pilates?

Pilates is for everyone! Office workers, professional sports people, first time exercisers, those looking to enhance general fitness or those wanting to help prevent injury or rehabilitation after an accident or injury. Pilates is suitable for men and women of all ages and levels of fitness, the emphasis being on individual progress.

What happens in a class?

The class will focus on mat work and will begin with a few gentle stretches to relax and focus you. We will then move onto a series of Pilates exercises designed to challenge, strengthen and mobilise your body, leaving you lengthened, energised and yet relaxed.

I have booked a class - what now?

Payment must be received before you attend your class, please see your confirmation email for details of how to pay. If you have booked at short notice then please email us to let us know that you will bring your payment to the class with you. You will also need complete our screening form and bring with you to your first class.

I am pregnant — can I still do Pilates?

You should always check with your doctor before doing any kind of exercise during pregnancy. However, Pilates tends to be particularly suitable for pregnant women, since it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens the back, stomach and pelvic floor muscles. Some exercises may need to be modified while pregnant. A properly tailored Pilates programme, however, can be the ideal way to lessen or avoid the back-pain commonly experienced during late pregnancy and to enable your body to regain its shape.

I am post-natal — can I still do Pilates?

As with pregnancy, you should always get your doctors advice before doing any form of exercise. For new mothers, Pilates will stretch muscles back into place, helping the body regain its shape and tone. The exercises can be customised to provide a safe and effective workout that is not too stressful for the abdominal area or spine, even in those who have had a Caesarean delivery.

I am being treated for an injury — can I still do Pilates?

Pilates is ideal to complement any kind of body-therapy and is recommended by many practitioners and therapists today. Before you start a course at Berkshire Pilates you will be asked to complete a medical questionnaire - and we may ask for your permission to work in conjunction with your practitioner to give you the best results. Pilates is a safe, low impact and highly effective method of exercise for rehabilitation.

Do I need to bring anything?

No, everything you need is provided in the class. All the Pilates products are available to buy if you prefer not to use shared equipment and use at home. You may wish to bring a bottle of water with you.

What do I wear?

Comfortable clothing that doesn’t restrict movement. Pilates is usually performed in bare feet, although please wear socks if you have a verruca.

How long before I notice a difference?

Pilates is not a quick fix, but a longer term commitment brings great results! There are many factors to consider—different body types, genetics, stamina and previous injuries, so no one person is the same. You should notice small changes after a 6-8 weeks course, but as a general guide you should feel stronger and more flexible after 30 lessons.

Book a class now!