General Physio Led Pilates FAQ
What is Pilates and what are the benefits?
Pilates is a low‑impact form of exercise that focuses on controlled movement, posture, and breath to build strength from the inside out. It’s suitable for any age and experience level and can be a great, accessible way to build or maintain strength and mobility. My regular students have reported benefits such as feeling stronger and more energised, better body awareness, less general aches and pains, improvement in back pain and sciatica symptoms, and reduced anxiety.
What happens during a class?
Class will start with a 10-15 minute warm up, usually done in standing, which will include mobility and balance work. We will then move onto floor based exercises focusing on strengthening which can be seated, lying down on your back, side or front, and on all fours. Equipment such as bands, balls and light weights may be used. We will usually start with a basic version of an exercise then add on optional progressions and variations. This allows you to go at your own pace and keeps the class challenging whether you are a beginner or more experienced. We will finish with around 10 minutes of stretching and mobility.
I've never done Pilates before, can I attend any of the classes?
Yes, all classes will be mixed levels and suitable for complete beginners.
Do I need to bring any equipment?
No, all equipment will be provided however you are welcome to bring your own mat and any other equipment if you prefer.
What should I wear?
Anything you feel comfortable to move in. Class is generally done in socks or barefoot but this is not essential.
Do I need to book?
Booking in advance is advised to guarantee a space, however drop ins will be welcome if class is not fully booked. If it is your first time attending please arrive 5 minutes before the start time to complete a medical form. You may wish to check the booking schedule in advance (displayed on the classes page) as if a class is not showing it is either fully booked or not going ahead.
How much do the Pilates classes cost?
Cost is £10 per class, or a pass of 6 classes for £48 can be purchased which works out at £8 per class. There is also an option to pay £30 monthly to attend the same weekly class. See the classes page for more information.
When are the Pilates classes?
Classes take place on weekday lunchtimes and evenings across a range of times. The current timetable is on the classes page.
Where do the the Pilates classes take place?
All current classes take place at Brooklands Park Community Centre in Stoke Gifford. See the contact page for a map.
Classes take place in either the main hall or one of the meeting rooms. To get there, enter through the two sets of double doors at the main entrance. Once inside you should see the cafe on your left. Turn right away from the cafe and head down the corridor. The main hall is through the double doors at the end with the meeting rooms either side – the door to the room being used will usually be propped open.
The Community Centre is usually locked outside of cafe hours. If you arrive before the class start time and are unable to get in, please wait by the main entrance for the instructor to let you in. If it is after the time the class is due to start and you have booked a space, please call 07599 875 160.
What does "Physio Led" mean?
This means that the class is taught by a qualified physiotherapist, who has extensive training in anatomy, biomechanics, movement disorders and injuries. If you have an injury or condition affecting your movement I am well-placed to offer advice on what movements to be cautious of or avoid and alternatives that may be more beneficial. If I believe a full or further assessment is needed I may recommend you contact your GP or book a one-to-one physiotherapy session.
Is there an age limit?
Can I take part if...?
I struggle to get on and off the floor
We will generally only transition from standing down to the floor and back up again once per class. If you are able to manage this (a chair can be provided to assist in the transition if needed) you are very welcome to attend but please let the instructor know at the start of class.
I have an injury/mobility restrictions
If you are able to get on and off the floor, lie on your back, both sides and front and come onto all fours you can attend – please let your instructor know at the start of class. If you think you may struggle with any of these positions please contact us to discuss as we may be able to modify to accommodate your needs.
I have a medical condition
Please check with your doctor that you are safe to exercise and whether there are any restrictions on this. If you are cleared to exercise but have restrictions that may affect your ability to take part please contact me before booking.
I am pregnant
If you have been exercising regularly until now, have had no medical issues during the pregnancy and are not considered a high risk pregnancy, you can take part but please contact us before booking so we can ensure we have suitable equipment available. In any other cases please seek approval from your doctor first then contact us before booking.
I recently gave birth
As long as you are at least 6 weeks postnatal and cleared medically you can attend, but please let your instructor know either in advance or at the start of the class.
I’m keen to make my classes accessible to as many people as possible whilst still delivering a safe and productive experience. If you have any concerns, (medical or otherwise), about attending I would always recommend you contact me before booking to check if the classes can meet your needs. If the current classes won’t work for you we may be able to set something up.
Disclaimer: This advice is applicable to the Physio Led Pilates classes that I provide, and may not apply to other similarly named classes from other instructors.