FAQs

How do I get started?

If you have done Pilates before, you can join a mat class directly. If you are new to Pilates, I suggest you start with an introductory private session or beginners’ course before joining an ongoing mat class. I run the latter from time to time, subject to numbers. If you are starting for medical reasons, have chronic pain or are recovering from injury, I recommend that you start with a private session. You may also prefer private sessions to benefit from more personalised tuition and the use of the Pilates reformer and other large equipment. Private sessions are held by appointment in the studio.

Contact me to check availability. I’ll send you an enrolment form and directions to your first session.

What should I wear?

You should wear fitted clothing that is comfortable for you to move in and socks, but no shoes. Gentlemen should wear fitted underwear and shorts or long sweatpants.

What should I bring to mat class?

Please bring your own mat. You’ll also need your own head cushion and I recommend a soft ball and band, read more about what you’ll need.

Why do I need an introductory session?

To get the most out of Pilates, it’s important to perform the exercises with good technique. An introductory session gives you the chance to learn the basic principles and some of the exercises. Then, when you join an ongoing class, where the other participants may have been coming for some time, you can do so with confidence that you’ll be able to keep up.

If you are starting for medical reasons, a private session gives us the time to discuss your health and if necessary, adapt the exercises to ensure that they are suitable for you.

What happens at my introductory session?

At your introductory session, I will:

  • review your enrolment form
  • assess your current fitness, posture and movement
  • discuss any medical conditions or recent injuries
  • introduce you to the basic principles and exercises
  • identify whether we’ll need to adapt any exercises for you, for example, if you have osteoporosis, you should not do curl-ups

I’m away, do I have to pay for the full course?

Classes are cheaper when booked online as a course each month but there are no refunds if you miss a class or discounts if you know you can’t attend a class in advance. I offer a drop-in rate, which costs more and is subject to space, so please check availability with me, then pay by cash or bank transfer. Note it’s more cost-effective to pay or a whole course and I recommend you do this. Please book before the first course date to secure your place ahead of any drop-ins.

What respiratory virus precautions do you have in place?

There are no longer any government coronavirus restrictions for exercise, but since the covid pandemic we are continuing with some precautions. These include bringing your own mat and other equipment to mat class and staying away if you have covid or are otherwise unwell. more about coronavirus precautions