Pilates – What to expect / FAQs

I am not the sporty type, is Pilates for me?

Certainly, Pilates is for everyone regardless of your level of fitness or any physical problems that you may have. Pilates is not competitive so you are working for yourself to achieve your own goals. The exercises can be adapted to be very gentle and therapeutic as well as being a challenging workout for people in any physical state. We work to encourage our clients to get more in touch with their bodies and to develop greater awareness of flexibility and strength.

Do I need to do anything before I start a Pilates Class?

Before joining a course of lessons you will need to book into either a 1-1 (40 mins) or 1-2  (60 mins) Assessment Session.

You will be required to bring some basic equipment with you, as only a mat and wipeable foam roller can be provided due to hygiene requirements. Therefore please bring a small towel or head cushion for your assessment and any further equipment required will be discussed with you during your session. No expensive equipment is needed and all of it can be ordered through us or many other low cost suppliers.

What should I expect from my Introductory 1-1 or 1-2 Assessment Session?

You will be asked to fill out a short questionnaire to help your instructor determine what your individual needs are. If this is your first experience of Pilates your instructor will introduce you to the movements and equipment that you will be required to bring with you for each session, and closely monitor how you move. As you progress she will continue to monitor your progress and adapt to any changes in your circumstances that arise. These sessions are an opportunity for you to learn the fundamental basics of Pilates, discuss your goals and ask any questions. It also offers a chance to see how you move, identify your strengths and weaknesses to ensure you get offered a class that is suitable for you.

What happens after my Introductory Assessment Session?

After your initial assessment session you may then join a small group class on a rolling 6 Week Pilates Course, or alternatively continue on a 1-1/1-2 basis depending on the outcome of your assessment and your requirements.

How many people will be in a “small group” class?

At Martinvale Clinic Pilates we keep our classes to a maximum of six people at any one time in the studio alongside a maximum of four via an online link. This does not mean that all classes will be full, at quieter times there may be fewer. The group is given a tailored class based on individual personal circumstances.

The online option is also available for private 1-1 sessions, excluding assessments.

What should I wear for a Pilates class?

There are a few things to consider when you dress for a Pilates workout. First, make sure your clothes give enough to let you move and stretch fully. Your instructor will need to be able to see your body well enough to see the alignment of you bones and how your muscles are engaging, so while loose is OK, baggy is not. You will also want to avoid baggy clothes because some Pilates exercises could be a bit revealing if your clothes are too loose. No shoes are worn in the studio so please wear comfortable normal socks or Pilates non-slip socks. There are entire lines of clothing made just for Pilates but it is not necessary to buy special Pilates workout clothes to do Pilates. The advice is to keep it simple and see what you feel comfortable with as you go along.

You will also want to avoid excess accessories while you are working out. Long necklaces, belts, dangling bracelets and such could not only be distracting but could be dangerous if they got caught up in the equipment. Similarly, hair needs to be out of the face and tied back if it is long. One other note: Many people are sensitive to perfumes and strongly scented deodorants so more studios are requesting that clients refrain from wearing strong scents in the studio.