Pilates FAQ
How do I sign up?
Please contact me by phone or email to establish initial contact. We will discuss your requirements over the phone, and you will then be asked to complete a client enrolment form, which you can download from the website or I will send it by email or post. We will then have a one to one induction at the Drummond Cinic where you will have a postural assessment and we will go through your exercising history, any illness, injury or issues as well doing some Pilates.
Am I too old/unfit/weak?
You are never too old! Pilates exercises can be gentle yet challenging in a safe and non-threatening way. As we get older, we tend to develop habits and postures which over time become so ingrained that normal movement becomes impinged. Pilates will help combat osteoporosis, as well as encourage movement through all planes and safe ranges to keep your body ticking over and healthy!
It is important to know that Pilates is not an aerobic activity, so although you will at times work quite hard, you won’t be running a marathon! No matter what your levels of fitness, I will work within your limits, pulling back where necessary or where you are making gains, challenging you further. I recommend that you take regular exercise and follow a healthy lifestyle - to include healthy eating - as a matter of course, and I will help you with that if required. Pilates will help to develop your core strength, while lengthening and toning your muscles. I will never push you too far or too soon - safety and enjoyment are paramount!
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move. A t-shirt and leggings, yoga pants or jersey tracksuit bottoms are ideal. You may wear socks but you should not slide about in them. Please also ensure that any jewellery is kept at a minimum and that you have not eaten a heavy meal for two hours prior to exercising.
Do I need any equipment? What should I bring?
Bring yourself! I will provide any equipment such as cushions, bands and so on although you may like to bring your own mat or towel. The classes are matwork based, so the need for any large equipment is removed.
What can I expect in my first session?
You will be asked to complete a client enrolment form and we will discuss your goals. If you are a beginner, your first session may involve more talking than usual, but you will be moving and learning very quickly. Please be aware that Pilates is a “hands on” method. This does not mean massage or manhandling, instead, touch is used to guide, correct and enable you to exercise effectively.
What if I am pregnant?
PLEASE INFORM ME IMMEDIATELY. If you have been exercising regularly, there is no reason why you should not continue to do so during pregnancy. I will tailor and adapt exercises for you depending on where you are in your pregnancy and how much you have done prior to receiving your exciting news, however, it is vitally important that you get the go ahead from your doctor BEFORE exercising. Please consider joining the “Pilates for Pregnancy” courses I will be running from August 2008. If you have never exercised before, you should also take your doctor’s advice. Whilst being pregnant does not preclude exercise, the safety of you and your baby should always be at the forefront of our minds.