FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. If I haven’t been to a Pilates before which class should I join?
A. The most beneficial way to start Pilates is to join the Absolute Beginners Course where everyone is starting at the same level. You will learn the 5 Key Elements of Pilates and all the basic Pilates moves.  After completing this Course you will be ready to join one of the regular Improvers Classes.

Q. Do I need to bring anything with me to the Classes?
A. No- everything is provided for you.

Q. What should I wear for my Class?
A. Comfortable clothing in which you can move freely e.g. t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms are fine. Trainers are required for the CARDIO Pilates Classes.

Q. Is Pilates suitable for me if I have had a back/neck/shoulder/knee/hip problem?
A. We discuss any of the above issues during your 1-1 Pre Class assessment and if necessary we obtain advice from your Doctor, Physiotherapist or Osteopath before starting the Classes.

Q. How will I benefit from Pilates?
A. Pilates can help you to:
•    Reduce back and neck pain
•    Experience improved posture
•    Develop better balance and co-ordination
•    Increase core stability and function
•    Improve your flexibility and mobility
•    Relieve stress and tension
•    Increase muscle tone
•    Improve your breathing

Pilates will help you will feel more confident, look and feel better!

Q. How does Pilates differ from other exercise methods?
A. Pilates is a unique and total body conditioning exercise regime that works in a different way to other fitness techniques. It changes both the way you move and the way you look.

Pilates works by building strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct alignment by working on the deep postural muscles in the abdomen and spine. It will help to reshape your body – which will become longer, leaner and more toned. It will improve your posture achieving the perfect balance between strength and flexibility.

APPI Clinical Pilates is a modification of the Traditional Pilates method and has been developed by Physiotherapists in keeping with current scientific findings. The emphasis is on control of the deep stabilizing muscles of the trunk which support the spine, thereby helping to reduce postural pain and back pain.

All the exercises taught in the APPI Clinical Pilates classes have beginner, intermediate and advanced levels so that each participant can work to their own individual pace and ability. The exercises in Clinical Pilates are performed in a very precise and fluid manner– its slow and controlled approach brings long term results and is often recommended for those with back problems.

Q. How often should I practise Pilates?
A. Ideally 3 times a week but we understand that for most people this is hard to achieve with today’s busy day to day schedules! However, you can utilise what you are learning in your Pilates Classes during your daily life as you become more aware of how you are moving, standing, sitting, walking etc. Home practise will also benefit you, even if it is only for 10 minutes a day!

Q. What do I have to do to join the Classes?
A. Contact Liz Marks to discuss your needs and arrange a 1-1 assessment.

“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see a difference and in 30 you will have a whole new body”    Joseph Pilates