Frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
Gym kit – like leggings or shorts and a T-shirt – works well. The important thing is for the clothes to be comfortable and easy to move around in without restricting you in any way.
What equipment do I need?
Just a mat and a cushion. Most classes use Pilates equipment – resistance bands, hand weights, a squishy Pilates ball – but if you don’t own these, you can easily use a pair of tights or a dressing gown cord (for the resistance band), two tin cans (for hand weights) and a loo roll (for an elegant squishy ball substitute!).
Is Pilates the same as yoga?
While there are similarities in terms of benefiting balance and strength, the movements and techniques can be quite different.
They are also different in origin. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, while elements of yoga are at least 5,000 years old. Yoga’s origin was to prepare the body for meditation, whereas Pilates is designed to strengthen and improve body functions, particularly the core.
Yoga is more spiritually focused and concerned with connecting to the inner self. Whereas Pilates uses mindfulness to connect to the body and is concerned with holistic wellbeing.
Where should I position my computer/iPad/device?
The most important thing about doing a virtual class is being able to see your screen so you can watch without having to contort your body to do so.
There’s no need to turn your camera on while you take part but doing so will allow me to help you even more by checking and correcting your form. Here are some tips to help you position your camera:
• Make sure your whole body can be seen when standing or lying down (most exercises will have you lying down, so prioritise being seen in that position) • Put your device on a stack of books (two or three feet high) at a right angle to your body • Try to place the camera eight to ten feet away from you, so your whole body is in view when you lie down • For laptops, angle the camera slightly downwards so I can see you and you can see me • For phones, consider investing in a tripod so you can adjust the height easily • Join the class early to give yourself time to figure out the best spot
How big are your Pilates classes?
I cap classes at around 15 persons to keep a friendly, community feel. The smaller classes also means I can keep an eye on how everyone is doing and correct technique when I notice something is not quite right.
Where can I buy proper Pilates props?
You can get most Pilates equipment cheaply on big online sports sites. Also, most of the big supermarkets often have reasonably priced kit.
Do I have to be flexible to do Pilates?
Absolutely not! The whole point of Pilates is to improve strength and flexibility. If you start with limited flexibility, it shouldn’t take too long for you to notice a real difference.
Does Pilates help with a bad back?
Yes! Pilates strengthens muscles designed to support the back, particularly the core, and can improve posture and reduce chronic back pain.
Do many men join your classes?
Yes! This is definitely not just for the ladies. A growing number of men, of all ages, are regular participants in the classes. It’s a superb form of exercise for men and I am actively on a mission to get more men to join in and discover the physical and mental benefits Pilates can bring.