ACTIVATE PILATES | Call us: 0773 8866771 Email us: info@activatepilates.co.uk |
Frequently asked questions
___________________________________________________________________________1. What is the difference between matwork and reformer pilates?
· Your body provides resistance and assistance for the exercises in matwork pilates, making use of gravity and your body weight. A reformer enables the exercises to be made easier or more challenging by offering additional support or resistance through the use of springs, pulleys and a moveable carriage.
2. Do I need to be fit to come to a class?
· We offer a range of classes at Activate Pilates. The reformer classes are more dynamic and will see you work up a sweat. However all classes are adapted to suit each individual and you therefore always work at your own pace, so all fitness levels can be catered for. The matwork classes are less aerobic and therefore place less demands on fitness.
3. How often do I need to come to classes?
· This depends on the outcomes you desire. As the main focus of pilates is to strengthen your core it complements cardiovascular training well. If you attend the reformer classes 2 times a week you would expect to see changes in 4-6 weeks. The rehab pilates is recommended once a week with some independent exercising at home in between classes as guided by the physiotherapist.
4. What should I wear and bring to classes?
· For the reformer classes you will work up a sweat, you therefore need to wear suitable sports clothing for this. In the matwork classes you will need to wear loose comfortable clothing suitable for gentle exercising. All classes are taught barefoot. It is recommended you do not wear jewellery. Water is provided in the studio, though you are welcome to bring your own. All equipment for exercising is provided. Please arrive 10 mins early to your 1st class so the instructor can introduce you to the equipment and you can fill in a disclaimer form prior to starting the exercises.
5. I’m already fit, what can pilates offer me?
· The main focus of pilates is to strengthen your core stability muscles. This enables the body to work better from this strong, controlled core. Therefore, as this is a specific type of exercise you will still get benefits to complement your cardiovascular fitness. Come and try our reformer classes where resistance can be increased or decreased to make exercises more challenging and free weights are also used.
6. Is 1:1 available?
· Yes, for all types of classes. An initial 1:1 assessment is essential before starting the rehab pilates courses.
7. I have an injury or am recovering from an injury, should I attend?
· We have rehab matwork classes run by a chartered physiotherapist. These are aimed at people with injuries and prior to these classes you will have a 1:1 session where you will be fully assessed by the physiotherapist. The exercises you are then given in the classes will be tailored to your individual needs. For all classes you must tell the instructor of any new or old injuries prior to starting a class. A review with the physiotherapist will be suggested if felt appropriate. As with any form of exercise it is always recommended you seek advice from your GP before starting a class if you have any injuries or medical problems.
8. I’m pregnant; can I attend your classes?
· Activate Pilates offers specific ante and post natal classes. For more information about these classes click here or contact us. For reformer pilates if you become pregnant whilst already attending classes inform your instructor who will request clearance from your GP for you to continue with classes. Exercises will then be tailored as appropriate, it is normally safe to continue with most exercises whilst pregnant. If you do not normally do exercise or classes prior to becoming pregnant it is not recommended to start reformer classes. Please note we are unable to provide creche facilities.
