"In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you'll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you'll have a whole new body."
Joseph Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a holistic exercise system devised by Joseph Pilates in the early 1920s, drawing inspiration from gymnastics, yoga, martial arts, Zen meditation, and ballet, amongst others. Due to its many benefits, Pilates is now recognized as a highly effective form of exercise. It can be performed with or without specialist equipment, and provides a balanced, whole-body exercise programme designed to:​
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stretch, strengthen and tone the musculoskeletal system
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improve postural alignment
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greatly strengthen the abdominals whilst stabilising the pelvic region
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improve balance and increase muscular flexibility and joint mobility
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restore the body to a more natural balance
Joseph Pilates on the reformer
What are the benefits of Pilates?
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Highly effective and time-efficient full body workout.
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Strengthens the core.
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Improves muscle strength, endurance and tone – particularly around the abdominals, lower back, hips and glutes.
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Improves posture, flexibility and balance – too often lost thanks to today’s sedentary lifestyles.
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It’s prehabilitative – it doesn’t just make you stronger and fitter, it also helps prevent injury.
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It’s mindful and immersive - promoting focus, presence and concentration.
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It’s low impact, and suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
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You feel and see the benefits fast.
What is Reformer Pilates?​
"I invented all these machines... it resists your movements in just the right way so those inner muscles really have to work against it. That way you can concentrate on movement. You must always do it slowly and smoothly. Then your whole body is in it." - Joseph Pilates
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Reformer Pilates is a type of pilates performed on a machine called the Reformer and this is one of the most adaptable and effective pieces of exercise equipment available, and also allows for a greater number and variety of exercises than is possible just using a mat. It consists of a flat platform that moves on wheels, with springs and straps used to provide resistance. The resistance, or support, provided by the springs and straps allows for a wide range of movements and resistance levels - that can be adapted depending on strength and ability. Reformer Pilates has an amazing impact on overall fitness and is incredibly effective in building strength and tone, as well as being great for rehab.
At PilatesOx we use STOTT PILATES® Reformers, widely recognised as the best in the industry in terms of design, durability and ease of use.
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Can anyone do pilates?
Because pilates can be modified to provide either a gentle strength training program or a challenging workout, it is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. If you're a beginner you can start with basic exercises and then once you've mastered those, you can work on the more advanced moves. It's a good idea when you're just starting to have a private 1;1 session - although not essential. This way the instructor can make sure that you are doing the exercises correctly to avoid any injury. We also recommend you check with your doctor if you haven't exercised for a while, are pregnant, or have specific health problems.
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Can I burn calories doing pilates, as well as strengthen and tone my body?
Absolutely. The more dynamic form of pilates is sure to raise your heart rate and burn calories and can be a real workout.
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I'm a bit intimidated by the Reformer. What happens if I get in a muddle?
Please do not worry about this - the Foundation Reformer classes are a perfect introduction to the Reformer, the classes are small and the teacher will be there to guide you.
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What should I wear?
Standard workout clothes are fine as long as they are stretchy and comfy. If you are attending a Reformer class, we strongly advise you buying some pilates socks that offer grip. These are inexpensive and can easily be bought online.
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Can I do pilates whilst pregnant?
Pilates can be practised during pregnancy and can be very beneficial, although there are some exercises that should be avoided depending on the stage of your pregnancy. We advise you consult with your doctor if you are pregnant before attending a class and it is also important you inform the teacher, as per the Health & Safety Waiver.
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Please contact us if you have any other questions.
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FAQ
Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or are interested in booking a private 1:1 session.