From April 2006 we started offering in-house pilates classes. These include 6 week beginner matwork classes, advanced classes and one on one sessions. If you prefer equipment based pilates, we can recommend Hoxton Square Pilates with whom we have a close relationship and who will be providing the teacher for our classes. View more information about our classes here.

 Some FAQ’s questions about Pilates

 What is Pilates?

Pilates is a series of flowing movements designed to strengthen and stretch the muscles of the body. It considers the body as a whole and restores and teaches correct posture and movement of the body which is often out of balance through modern life styles and habitual movement. It focuses on the core muscles of the trunk to provide a solid base for movement to originate from, and also the smaller stabilizing muscles that ensure the larger global muscles of the body can execute precise movement.

 The Benefits of Pilates

• Flattens, tones and strengthens abdominal muscles
• Develops longer, leaner muscles
• Improves posture and prevents injury
• Balances strength with flexibility
• Relieves stress and tension
• Enhances body awareness
• Heightens concentration
• Enhances athletic performance and movement quality
• Increases circulation and improves digestion
• Boosts self image

 What happens in a Pilates Mat Class?

Pilates' movements are performed lying down on a mat so stress is taken off the body allowing the posture to be corrected. A series of flowing exercises are performed which require concentration, correct breathing and precise execution. Each exercise is only performed 5-10 times, allowing for maximum mind body connection. The exercises look deceptively easy and familiar but take some time to master. With regular practice the correct movements are achieved and the full effect of the exercise can be felt. The exercises require a high level of concentration and regulated breathing producing a calming effect that leaves the mind and body feeling refreshed, relaxed and energised.

 Who can do Pilates?

Pilates is a gentle series of movements that uses the body’s own strength to stretch and strengthen muscles, so it can be practised by anyone of all ages and fitness. The movements are generally not aerobic so cardio vascular fitness does not have to be high. But like any exercise program, if you have any problems you should consult with you doctor before participating in a Pilates class.

 What if I have back and/or neck problems, will I still be able to benefit from the class?

Pilates can be adapted to the needs of clients who have particular problems; however the Pilates technique considers the body as a whole. Many new students are not able to do all the moves, but overtime become proficient in others. As overall proficiency increases it enables progress to be made with the moves that were originally difficult. It is this holistic approach where each movement builds on the other to restore balance to the whole body that eventually resolves specific problems.

 I already exercise regularly why should I learn Pilates?

Pilates' techniques can be a huge benefit when applied to any discipline that uses movement, from weight training, dancing, athletics, golf, football, keep fit, running and martial arts. Pilates will help to promote greater pain free range of movement resulting in greater power, reduced risk to injury and better co-ordination for your existing exercise programme or chosen sport.

 Can’t I just learn this from a book?

Pilates looks simple and familiar but you need an objective view that can check alignment and technique, and constant prompting, as performing the movements incorrectly has no benefits.

 What classes can I do?

The mat classes are currently set up to provide a Foundation for everyone over a 6 week period where the principles of Pilates are taught along with a program of movements that develop over the 6 week period. After this Foundation clients can do the Foundation Plus Series which use equipment or has a specific focus to further challenge the client. After about 3 moths clients may be able to progress onto the Open series of mat classes (see separate details of class descriptions and timetable)

 Who Was Joseph H Pilates?

Joseph H Pilates (1880-1976) was born in Germany to help him overcome the debilitating childhood diseases of poverty he studied martial arts, dance, gymnastics and Zen meditation. In 1912 he came to England working as a boxer, circus performer and teaching the police self-defence. With the out break of WW1 he was interned as a Foreign National. Working as a nurse he continued to develop his ideas and rehabilitate his patients developing resistance equipment based on bed springs. He was praised for his methods when none of his patients were struck down by an influenza epidemic that swept across post war Europe

After the war he went to New York and with his wife Clara set up a studio where he fully developed his ideas. He wrote two books, where he called his method ‘controlology’ and wanted his ideas to be available to everyone. His ideas are now widely practised by dancers, athletes, physiotherapists, fitness trainers, health care professionals and those interested in optimal health and fitness.

 Your teacher, David A Johnson

David has trained in movement, form working out in the gyms of the 80’s, taking dance classes at the groundbreaking Pineapple Studios to studying Capoiera in Brazil and has worked semi-professionally as a performer for 15 years. See more information on Our Therapists page.

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