Pilates

Pilates can be practiced by anyone regardless of their physical fitness and ability.  Reformer sessions and matwork classes promote strength and balanced muscle development throughout the whole body, as well as flexibility and increased range of motion for the joints.  There are many varied and important benefits which can be received through regular Pilates classes. 

A few benefits:

  • Pre & Post Natal
  • Improved posture
  • Improved coordination & balance
  • Develops core strength
  • Lengthens & sculpts muscles without bulk
  • Improves flexibility & strength throughout the whole body
  • Increases joint range of motion
  • Enhances concentration & mental clarity
  • Improves muscle tone particularly upper body and abdominal areas
  • Promotes recovery from injury

 

Brief history of Pilates:

Pilates founder Joseph Pilates was living in England, working as a circus performer and boxer, when he was placed in forced internment in England at the outbreak of WWI. While in the internment camp, he began to develop the floor exercises that evolved into what we now know as the Pilates matwork.

As time went by, Joseph Pilates began to work with rehabilitating other detainees who were suffering from diseases and injuries. It was invention born of necessity that inspired him to utilize items that were available to him, like bedsprings and beer keg rings, to create resistance exercise equipment for his patients. This was unlikely beginnings of the equipment we use today, such as the reformer.

                  

 

FAQs

I have never done Pilates before; can an absolute beginner just join in?

Yes, Pilates can be done by anyone no matter what age, fitness level or experience they may have.  All clients of Burleigh Pilates Boutique have the option to participate in an initial assessment & instructional session.  This allows time to explore your goals with your instructor, any injuries or muscle imbalances you may have, you will learn the basics of pilates reformer and how to set yourself up correctly on the apparatus and how to engage your core muscles.  All classes cater to each individual's strengths and weaknesses so even an absolute beginner can be working alongside an experienced participant with each client gaining maximum benefits from their class.

 

How long does a class go for and how is a class structured?

All classes are 1 hour in duration. All classes are tailored to suit the individual needs of the participants.  Some start with a stretch phase specific to each clients  then we progress onto the mats where we will do a series of exercises utilising small equipment such as fitballs and bands.  We then move onto the Reformers for more strengthening and stretching exercises and finish with a relaxation component.  Clients have the option to stay longer and stretch out on the mats if they wish using the foam rollers.  Classes may vary depending on the group and what goals they wish to achieve for example, a class may consist of a full Reformer workout, clients may not wish to have a relaxation component on the end - your instructor will work closely with you to tailor your sessions to your needs.

 

What sort of results can I expect to get from Pilates?

There are many varied results which you can achieve through Pilates and everyone will get something specific from it but most people find they achieve the following:

  • stronger core which in turn will help strengthen the back
  • improved posture
  • more toned and lengthened muscles
  • increased range of movement through their joints
  • injury rehabilitation and many many more. 

 

What do I wear to a class?

Comfortable clothes which will allow you to move around in and foot socks.  Socks are essential not only for hygiene purposes but you will need these to grip the footbar when performing exercises.  Special "GripSox" are available for purchase from the studio if you wish.  It is also recommended that you do not wear any moisturiser on your upper body for hygiene purposes when using equipment.

What time are classes run & how much are they? 

Classes are by appointment only, running Monday to Friday and Saturday mornings.  If you would like to know more about session times and fees please send an email via the Contact Us page.  We are happy to send you an information pack and we will get back to you within 24 hours to discuss how we can help you.