What is Pilates?

Pilates is a safe system of mind-body exercise that can be performed on a mat or on specialised studio pilates equipment, such as the Reformer machine, Stability chair and Trapeze table (or ‘Cadillac’) along with some others. Various props are also used within pilates exercises  – some to enhance the intensity, others to reduce the intensity, or to provide support.

Pilates incorporates all three kinds of muscle contractions: eccentric (lengthening under tension), concentric (shortening under tension), and isometric (where the muscle is held in a static contraction).

The key feature of pilates’ success is the focus on eccentric muscle contractions. This is where a muscle lengthens as it resists force. The Reformer machine, (one of the pilates studio equipment repertoire) is set up for eccentric contraction. This is one of the fundamentals to achieving long, strong lean muscles that Pilates is renowned for.

What is Pilates Reformer?

The Reformer machine’s ‘carriage’ rolls backwards and forwards with different adjustable springs for providing all kinds of resistance. The instability of the carriage provides challenge for one’s core strength and balance, whilst simultaneously increasing flexibility as the Reformer trains the body to sustain length. The pushing and pulling with legs or arms against the resistance of the springs, carriage and body weight is generally strength building. The exercises provide enough resistance and variety in movement to also help build bone mass.

Pilates, and in particular Pilates Reformer is renowned worldwide for successfully building a strong core, improved posture and creating better ease of movement. Pilates is also used by both pilates teachers and other health clinicians to improve dysfunctional movement patterns and rehabilitate old injuries. Pilates is suitable for both women and men of all ages. It is also widely used to enhance sports performance for athletes around the world.

Benefits of Pilates

• Pilates is suitable for Women, Men of all ages
• Improved strength
• Improved muscle tone
• Balance
• Joint mobility
• Relieves stress & tension
• Flexibility
• Core strength
• Improved posture
• For athletes, including dancers, pilates can complement training by developing whole body strength and flexibility and help reduce the risk of injury.

Pilates Reformer Classes

We offer both group Pilates Reformer classes (maximum 7 participants) and individual sessions. Mat Pilates classes are slightly larger classes.

Click here for further information on our other Classes