Mat-based exercises make a good starting point to those new to Pilates. Essential 1 is for Beginners who are totally new to Pilates.
\n\nSome people prefer to have a private session first to assess their body, ask questions and learn modifications they will need to do in the group classes.
\nOnce you've got a better handle on integrating all the principles (it takes a while), branch out and try some Pilates equipment.
\n\nThere are a limit of 12 clients per class. When you enrol you book your space in the class for the term.
\n\nA set of execises are learnt each term, each class building on the previous one progressing to the next level.
\n\nEnrolment fees are for a one term, block course and are non-refundable, and non-transferrable
\n\n(unless, using my best endeavours, I am able to fill your spot from the waitlist). No partial refunds for missed classes
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\n\nNo refunds for missed classes, however, if you do miss a class you are welcome to attend any other of our classes (with prior approval) as a make-up class within the same term, and subject to space being available in that class. However, this may be cancelled if mat classes reach their maximum numbers. Missed classes cannot be transferred to family members or friends.
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\n\nCasual rates are $18 per class, and for those already enrolled in a block course, then the discounted rate of $15 per class applies
\n\n(friends and family members are not entitled to this discount).
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\n\nComfortable form fitting clothes are best. Oversized clothes make it difficult for the instructor to see your form. Shoes are not required, we do Pilates bare feet or with socks on in winter. Mats are provided. You can bring a water bottle and hand towel.
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\n\nYou work at your own level and your Pilates instructor will help you progress at your own level whilst making sure that you are comfortable with your individual progress. You do not need to feel pressured by what others are doing. Its not about Perfection its all about Progression.
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\n\nJoseph Pilates designed this programme as a rehabilitation tool. Pilates develops strength, stability, balance and symmetry to areas of the body that may have been misaligned due to injury. Let your instructor know at any time if something feels uncomfortable or ‘not right’ to modify the exercises to your body
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\n\nQuick answer will be "no for a general mat class". There is a lot of debate on the subject of Pilates and pregnancy and exercise in general. Generally speaking, moderate exercise is safe throughout a normal, healthy pregnancy and many gentle Pilates exercises are appropriate. However, keep the following cautions in mind.
\n\nDo not over-exert the abdominal muscles to avoid diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles).
\n\tTake care of you lower back, which can be strained with the weight of the fetus.
\n\tAvoid all Pilates exercises that require you to lie on your back.
\n\tDo not over-stretch, as relaxin and progesterone levels increase during pregnancy causing the ligaments around the joints to become lax, loose and vulnerable.
\n\tBe aware that your center of gravity and therefore your sense of balance has changed.
\n\tDo not start a brand new exercise regimen in the first trimester.
\n\tThat being said, many gentle stretching and strengthening Pilates exercises can be good for a woman's body and mind during pregnancy.
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There’s definitely a mind-body connection and a very similar fluidity in both. Joseph Pilates was inspired by eastern and western forms of exercise and wellness principles so there are many similarities. The breathing is different as you scoop your belly in instead of relaxing it. Pilates is more dynamic focusing on movement rather than the static holding of postures as yoga dictates. One difference is that there’s a whole line of equipment in Pilates that doesn’t exist in yoga, so it provides a different angle: You’re doing exercises with the assistance and resistance of springs and pulleys. The springs may assist you or they may make an exercise more difficult, depending on the exercise.
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Pilates is safe enough to do every day. Joseph Pilates used to say to do it three times a week. With any form of exercise consistency is the key. In the beginning your body is learning a lot of new information and your mind/body connection is being established. However, once a week on a very regular basis can also be beneficial combining it with other exercise.
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\n\nThat depends on your body awareness and fitness levels. Feeling sore is a very individual thing. Some people don’t feel sore. Pilates is what you put into it. If you’re really conscious and making an effort to make every movement count, you’ll most likely feel something the following day. It also has to do with your athleticism. If you’ve been sedentary, you’re probably going to feel it more than someone who’s very active. It’s all relative. Pilates does not fatigue the muscles to exhaustion. Rather it uses movement patterns, mental focus and muscle memory to build strength and awareness in the body. Pilates leaves you energised and while you may experience some soreness as your body experiences changes it is short lived.
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\n\nPilates is designed to help you reshape your body and mind. Using different types of apparatus as well as your own body weight, the system helps you tone your muscles and elongate areas such a waistline and upper arms and thighs. Adding Pilates to a healthy diet and regular cardiovascular exercise can dramatically change your overall appearance. You will increase flexibility, mobility, balance, improved posture and overall strength.
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