No, it doesn’t matter if you’re starting from scratch, have a little experience or a lot. The machines are adjustable and therefore, highly versatile so that your sessions will be tailored to your individual needs, whatever your current level of fitness and/or injury.

Wear anything that you would normally wear to the gym that is comfortable and loose to exercise in. Shoes are not normally worn in Pilates studios for a number of reasons however it is advisable to wear socks, ideally socks with grips under the sole. Longer hair should be worn up out of the way.

There is no need to bring a mat as all equipment is provided for you, but you may want to bring a towel and a water bottle, although water is available at the studio.

Don’t worry, we will be asking you all about any injuries, operations or conditions during your consultation to ensure your programme sessions are designed with you in mind.

Originally designed by Joseph Pilates to facilitate recovery among war veterans in hospital, the machines were later developed for use by dancers and athletes to enhance performance. Nowadays, they are still widely used in the sporting and dance world but are also extremely popular for improving general fitness and regaining fitness following injury, illness, surgery or for anybody living with painful conditions.

In Pilates fitness circuits you will get to experience each piece of equipment including the reformer, ladder barrel, Pilates chair, bench and tower. Occasionally it may be necessary to incorporate the smaller Pilates equipment such as resistance bands, balls and foam rollers.

The reformer uses a system of adjustable spring resistances with footstraps or handles to challenge muscles or support joints. The body is also supported to reduce load bearing, depending on individual needs and goals and which muscles are being targeted. It is an extremely effective piece of equipment which is why it is most of our clients’ favourite piece of equipment.

The Pilates chair is also uses spring resistances and pedals. Clients are able to sit, lie or stand and although the chair is great for strengthening the torso, abs and obliques, upper body and arms, it is particularly good for strengthening legs and glutes for climbing, balancing, walking and improving general function for sit to stand movements for rehab.

The ladder barrel is great for stretching quads, hamstrings and glutes and like all of the equipment, developing core strength and due to its shape, is great for spine mobility/flexibility and strength. The domed padded seat is also perfect for horse riders as clients are able to bring their saddle with them to use on the ladder barrel in order to observe and adjust their current movement patterns and, together with the practitioner, improve their posture, core strength and performance when riding.

From a sports conditioning perspective, the reformer is ideal for dancers, athletes as it strengthens core and increases flexibility, mobility and coordination and the jumpboard element is perfect for skiers wanting to get in shape for the season, whereas the Pilates chair, is great for racquet sports players, golfers, skiers, gymnasts and runners.

Studio circuits will strengthen joints, increase flexibility, develop core strength, correct posture, improve balance and tone the body using the same guiding principles of Pilates, while reformer jumpboards bring an excellent cardio element to your circuit workout.

You don't need to bring anything with you other than a towel and water bottle as all equipment is provided, including mats.