T i m e
4 P i l a t e s

New Starters

Pilates is a form of exercise which co-ordinates the working of muscles with breathing. It strengthens the core postural muscles of the body, toning the whole body and improving posture. Pilates strengthens the deep stabilising muscles of the trunk, making it ideal for the prevention of back problems – its consistent success rate in solving such problems has brought it to the attention of osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists.

The Body Control Pilates Method is based on the work of Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. He soon attracted actors, dancers and athletes, who found that his exercises perfected and completed their traditional exercise programmes and catered for their individual needs - building strength without adding bulk, balancing strength with flexibility, and achieving perfect harmony of body and mind.

The Body Control Pilates Association was set up in 1996 by Lynne Robinson and Gordon Thompson, with the goal of bringing the benefits of pilates to all. Body Control Pilates continues to maintain an excellent reputation for its effectiveness and the quality of its teaching.

Classes

All my Pilates classes are matwork based, and strictly limited to a maximum of 12 places.
You should wear clothing that is comfortable for you to work out in. Try to avoid over-sized attire that would make it difficult for me to observe your body during the session. All clients are required to wear socks. Avoid dangling jewellery for safety and comfort.
As Pilates courses are progressive in nature, all blocks of classes must be booked and paid for in full. Payment can be made via cash, cheque, bank transfer, or my (contactless) credit/debit card terminal.

Some people may prefer individual instruction, and indeed this can be a very good way to commence Pilates, or to regain strength and agility after an injury - please contact me for details.

All new starters must attend a 1 : 1 class with me prior to joing a group class, this ensures that I understand what you want to achieve from Pilates, and makes sure you understand the principles of Pilates and a number of the basic exercises. These sessions are run from my home in Kidmore End, or it maybe possible to run one immediately prior to an Open class, at St Michael's Hall. Special rates apply for this session as long as you sign up for a whole block of classes.
All my Open classes are for people of mixed ability. However, I try to steer Beginners towards my 11.15 class on a Tuesday. If that class is full, or the time/day doesn't suit, you're more than welcome to attend any of the other Open classes.
The majority of my Open classes contain people working at different levels. Most Pilates exercises can be done at Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced level through the addition of hand weights, bands and foam rollers. I ensure that everyone attending my classes works at a level which is appropriate to them, taking into account their skill level and any medical / movement restrictions.

Pilates is a very safe form of exercise, but it is usually not advisable to begin classes during the first trimester of pregnancy. Those already taking part in a course of Pilates should notify Christine if they fall pregnant. After the first trimester, pregnant women can join one of my specially designed Pregnancy classes, which contain exercises specially designed to keep the body agile and supple as the pregnancy continues.

I am sorry but at present, due to Coronavirus restrictions, I am unable to run specific Antenatal (or Postnatal) classes. If you have already done Pilates I will try to offer you a place in one of my open classes, and I will make sure that all the exercises you do are suitable for your stage of pregnancy. Please get in touch to discuss this.

Pilates is ideal for women after childbirth, as there is lots of strengthening and pelvic floor work. Women should wait until at least 6 weeks after the birth, and should have had their final check up from the doctor, before they resume exercise. I run a specific class for postnatal women, who are very welcome to bring their babies to the class!

I am sorry but at present, due to Coronavirus restrictions, I am unable to run specific Postnatal classes.
If you have already done Pilates I will try to offer you a place in one of my open classes, unfortunately it will not be possible to bring your baby along to these classes. I will make sure that all the exercises you do are suitable for your postnatal recovery. Please get in touch to discuss this.