WHAT LEVEL IS THE SESSION?

The session is tailored to suit you. Clients vary and include stiffer and/or more mature people looking to maintain and improve their spine health, joint mobility and balance, usually as a result of a referral from a health professional. There isn't a typical client, everyone from retirees, sports therapists and yoga teachers! So it's really suitable for anyone that is in reasonable health.

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WHAT ARE YOUR QUALIFICATIONS?

Level 4 CanRehab Instructor, Level 4 Postural Stability Instructor for Falls Prevention, Older Adult, Pilates, Spine Safe Pilates, Physical Yoga, GP Exercise referral, Pre and Post Natal exercise, Group Exercise, Aquatic exercise.

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AM I TOO INFLEXIBLE TO DO PILATES OR YOGA?

No, it's a myth that you need to be flexible to do Pilates and yoga. Being stiff or inflexible is a great reason to come to a session, over time you will improve your posture and flexibility. That said, some clients have issues because they are too flexible and benefit from help with alignment. Don't forget, your session has nothing to do with what other people are capable of - it is your session.

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DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN MAT?

If you are a beginner and wish to try out a class before purchasing a mat, Pauline will provide a mat for your first session. Regular clients bring their own mat, all other equipment is provided during the session. When exercising in your home you do your own risk assessment and minimise hazards e.g. do not wear socks on hard flooring, move aside rugs and anything that could cause you harm.

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WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

Wear clothes that allow you to move freely. Avoid anything baggy or too long - it’s good if we can see your knees and feet. Most people wear shorts or leggings and a T-shirt. For Pilates and Yoga best practice is bare feet, please bring any prescribed orthotics.

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CAN COMPLETE BEGINNERS BOOK A CLASS?

Yes. A private session is an ideal way to try out Pilates or yoga for the first time.

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WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF SPINE SAFE PILATES AND YOGA?

They build strength and stamina, improve flexibility, muscle tone and posture and calm the mind. Regular practice develops awareness and concentration and promotes general wellbeing.

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I'VE HEARD PILATES OR YOGA CAN DO HARM, IS THAT TRUE?

Yes, the wrong move at the wrong time at the wrong place can do harm. Indeed most of the original Joseph Pilates exercises are not suitable for someone with a back injury. Modern sports and exercise science has improved our understanding of how the body works and moves; with this knowledge Spine Safe Pilates and yoga has been specifically updated and adapted for a variety of conditions. This means you will learn the fundamental safe movement principles so you can apply these in a class environment and day to day life.

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CAN IT HELP MY INJURY, E.G. BAD BACK, OR OTHER HEALTH PROBLEM?

Many clients start classes with back pain, or other common ailments, and they find it too much. Spine Safe Pilates and yoga can be adapted to your condition so that you benefit. Pauline is a fitness not a medical professional (e.g. Doctor, Physiotherapist, Dietician or Midwife) but is happy to liaise with them with your prior permission, if necessary. Medical professionals’ recommendations take priority and must be followed. If your needs are beyond the scope of the above expertise, Pauline can refer you on to a specialist or senior teacher.

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SO WHAT EXACTLY AM I LIKELY TO BE DOING?

You will be aiming to achieve the following:

• Functional moves and balance training to aid the activities of daily living

• Restoring appropriate flexibility and mobility

• Correcting instability or faulty movement patterns

• Improving posture, body awareness and correcting segmental control when possible

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IS IT SUITABLE FOR MEN AND WOMEN?

Yes. The exercises are a challenge to all. Pilates and yoga pays no regard to colour, creed or sex: all can take part.

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CAN I EAT BEFORE A SESSION?

For Pilates and yoga it is best to leave at least three hours after a main meal, or an hour after a snack. Yoga especially should be practised on an empty stomach.

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HOW OFTEN CAN I PRACTICE AT HOME?

The exercises are those you can practice at home. Frequent shorter sessions are generally preferable to infrequent longer sessions. The key is to make it a habit, for example, stretching whilst watching TV or doing your yoga practice for 30 minutes before breakfast.

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WHAT IS YOUR PRIVACY POLICY?

In simple terms I respect privacy and confidentially and do not try to sell you anything. Full details here:

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