Frequently Asked Questions
How are Pilates and Yoga different?
There is sometimes confusion as to the difference between Pilates and Yoga. After all, they are both low-impact disciplines and a great way to move your body. While there are some similarities between these two training styles, they each have unique qualities. Yoga can be athletic, but is usually a meditative and spiritual practice that focuses on unifying the body and mind and increasing relaxation. It also often has a greater focus on stretching and flexibility.
Pilates traditionally has a greater emphasis on rehabilitation. It can be a safer option to get started with than yoga for those who are recently injured. It also has more of a focus on building core strength and contains a series of controlled and sustained exercises that concentrate on form over reps.
What type of Pilates do you teach in your classes?
I teach Pilates with a focus on promoting functional movement, flexibility and endurance. The main priority is on improving spinal strength and stability, Increasing mobility and promoting good balance thereby reducing the risk of injury. I do not teach the traditional Classical mat sequence that you may be used to. We do build towards some of the Classical exercises, but I just wanted you to be aware before we go any further. I also teach a maximum of eight clients at a time, so there's lots of attention to technique and encouraging you to really work on your posture, core stability, flexibility and mobility.
What is this “functional movement” you mention?
I am very focused on the concept of functional fitness and see core stability as essential for everyday life. Quite a lot of stability happens at a subconscious level BUT we can learn to improve stability throughout the body with conscious control. We need functional stability in everyday life in order to go about our lives, pain free. I believe working on stability and strength consciously in a Pilates environment will help you to perform everyday tasks and activities with more stability and control. This is especially relevant following an injury or for those with sedentary lifestyles and jobs.
How big are the group classes?
My classes are all small (maximum 8 people), so that individual attention is given to technique and everyone can exercise safely.
When do the classes run?
Group classes typically run in ‘blocks’ loosely around the Hampshire school term dates, but now our daughter is at University I do often take holidays slightly more out of high season when they are less expensive and crowded!
These blocks are generally 6 or 7 weeks in length. Please note, “drop ins” are not allowed. You must book a block of classes in advance.
1:1 classes are individually run on mutually agreed days inside and outside term dates.
How much are the group classes?
My group classes are £14.50 per class. Payment is always made on a block booking basis, with payment for the block in advance by bank transfer.
What if I need to miss a class?
I completely understand that Pilates classes and life don't always align perfectly and everyone needs to miss a class sometimes (illness, holidays, working late etc). To account for this, and ensure that you get the most chance to attend a session, there are actually FOUR ways to attend my classes:
In person.
Live online on Zoom from wherever you are.
Swap into another class either before or after the planned absence (as long as there's space and the level is appropriate for you). I do ask that any catch up/swap classes are taken within the same block.
Ask for a recording (these have been very popular!)
After a lot of trial and error, I have found that making my classes accessible to clients in four ways, rather than offering a credits system, makes the logistics of running a small business a whole lot easier.
Can you tell me more about the online/Zoom classes?
The online format is helpful for those who sometimes take extended holidays or just can’t always make the class in person, as it will allow you to keep your Pilates going and hopefully avoid lots of catch-up classes. It is very simple, I will send you a zoom link and you just need to click on it and have your mat and device set up so that I can see your spine and pelvis. If you would like a recording of the class, please arrange this with me in advance.
How much are the 1:1 sessions and the 1:2 Duet sessions?
For those of you who would rather have a session tailored entirely to your requirements, or who would rather build their confidence gradually in a quieter setting, private 1:1 sessions are available and these are £55 for 60 minutes.
Duet Pilates (2-person session) works best when you and a partner can commit to the same schedule every week and have similar physical abilities and goals e.g. Spouses, parents and adult children, or best friends. 1:2 Duet sessions are £70 for 60 minutes. £35 per person, per session. Please note that if at any time only one of the two people is able to attend, this will be charged at the 1:1 price of £55.
Where are the classes?
All the sessions are held at my own dedicated Pilates Studio at Unit 15/31, City Business Centre, Hyde Street, Winchester, SO23 7TA. If you haven’t been there before, City Business Centre is a horseshoe shaped area. Pilates Through Life - Units 15/31 (in large yellow numbers) are more or less straight ahead as you come in and there is a sign in the window.
Where can I park?
The cheapest car park is Worthy Lane Car park - a four minute walk from my Studio. Here is the Winchester Council parking map in case you need alternatives: https://www.winchester.gov.uk/parking/parking-and-car-parks
What should I wear?
Wear something comfortable and warm (fitted layers are best) that you can move in. If possible, the clothes should not be too baggy, as I need to see your spine and that’s tricky in baggy tops. Please wear socks.
What equipment will I need?
Not a thing, all equipment is provided by me, including comfortable mats (which are cleaned after every use), headrests, bands, balls and any other apparatus we use.
How do I enrol for group classes?
Before coming to your first session, as mentioned above, you will need to download the Enrolment Form, complete it and then send to me by email/post. This confidential form will give me important information regarding your health, lifestyle and any injuries. This way, I can plan a safe and effective programme for you and monitor your progress.
Can I join if I am recovering from an injury?
If you have been referred for Pilates following an injury, or have a medical condition, I may need to discuss your current suitability for Pilates with your medical practitioner. Clients are asked to complete the enrolment form to ensure that a mat class is the most appropriate option before being accepted into class.