Pilates as an exercise is an excellent way to address strength, postural awareness and flexibility. It is low-impact in nature, with targeted strengthening throughout the body, including the core and back.
We offer matwork pilates classes at Rusheen Physiotherapy. This involves exercise in positions of standing, sitting, kneeling and lying on a mat. Exercises are designed to target features of alignment, strengthening, balance and flexibility of the body.
Small pieces of equipment, such as resistance band and weights, are used to facilitate increased challenge in the class.
The pilates studio is set up for smaller class sizes (up to maximum 10 people), that allows us to focus on the individual's needs. We, as instructors, are better able to adjust postures and intensity of exercises as needed during the class. This enhances your outcomes from the exercise, and modifications can be offered as needed for each individual.
What to expect:
Wear comforable clothing that you can move in. For example leggings and a tshirt.
We provide mats, but you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.
Bring a bottle of water for hydration.
Aim to arrive at least 5 minutes before your class. There may be a class ahead of you, and the door may be locked until the class is finished.
Classes are led by either a specialist pilates instructor (Katrin) or pelvic health physiotherapist (Helen). These classes are typically held in blocks of 4 or 6 weeks.
Beginners Pilates:
These classes are best for those who are new to pilates or have very limited pilates experience. The classes are designed to start from the basics, and introducing a gradually progressive programme. It includes the traditionally common pilates exercises seen in matwork classes. The small class size allows for adjustments to be made and focus to be on quality of movement.
Mixed Level Pilates:
These classes are best suited to those with previous experience with pilates. There will be options to make the exercises more challenging for those who feel confident to do so. If you are someone who has no pilates experience, you may wish to start with the beginner classes to learn the basic movements and breathing co-ordination.
Over 60s Pilates:
These classes are specifically for those who would like a slower paced class, and might not be regularly active individual.
You will need to be medically fit to exercise (if in doubt, check with your GP) and be comfortable getting on and off the floor during the exercises. A lot of the class will take place lying on a yoga mat on the floor, although some of the class may involve positions such as standing or kneeling.
This class is appropriate for those with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Please let you instructor know about your diagnosis on your intake information form.
Coming in the future:
Antenatal classes.
Postnatal classes.
**please note that physiotherapy-led classes are temporarily unavailable, and will return later in the year**