Pilates
The Pilates Method was developed in the early 1920's by Joseph Hubertus Pilates, one of the most innovative bodyworkers of the 20th century. However, it is not just another exercise method. Rooted in anatomy and biomechanics, it is a truly holistic form of body conditioning that stresses the importance of the integration of mind and body. The focus is on the quality of movement rather than endless repetitions. It corrects and improves posture, breathing, suppleness and muscle tone and develops body awareness. In short, Pilates is movement therapy for the whole body.
The 8 principles of Pilates are alignment, breathing, relaxation, centring, concentration, co-ordination, stamina and flowing movement.
Private Classes
I offer 1:1 and 1:2 tuition in the privacy of a client's home or workspace providing you have suitable space available. A good guide for floor space is 2 metres by 2½ metres per person. There are currently slots available for individual classes during the day Monday-Thursday, Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. The main areas I cover are the "Parks" - that's Raynes Park, Motspur Park, Worcester Park and also New Malden in Surrey. However, I regularly teach private classes outside of these areas with clients based as far as Clapham Junction. If you're looking for group classes, please see the Group Classes page
You can either book a block of private lessons or one-off sessions. Blocks can be booked in sets of either 4 or 6 weeks, payable in advance. Usually, they run for consecutive weeks to provide consistency. One-off sessions are ideal if you already attend a group class but would like to work on specific exercises in detail away from the group environment. And if you are unsure about signing up for a block, booking a one-off session gives you the opportunity to find out whether Pilates is for you, before committing to a block of privates. It also allows me to assess you so that if you then go on to book a block, I can devise a tailor-made exercise programme for you.
Prices
| 1:1 60 minutes | £50 (£45 if Surrey based) | |
| 1:2 60 minutes | £60 per session |
Please Note
- In the event of cancelled appointments or "no show", 1:1 clients will be charged in full for their session unless 24 hours notice is given.
- Private sessions must be paid in full and in advance of the course. Places will not be confirmed until payment is received.
- Private sessions are non refundable and non transferable and are valid for the duration of the block for which they were booked.
- Late arrival may result in reduced appointment time.
- Male clients are by referral only.
- It's advisable to avoid heavy meals before a private class.
Levels
Pilates sessions are tailored according to an individual's level of ability, knowledge of the method and any specific exercise requirements.
| Beginners: | This level lays the foundation for preceding levels and all students new to The Centred Body start at this level. The basic principles of Pilates are covered, including correct breathing, postural alignment and core stability. The syllabus taught in Beginners becomes the basis for your pre-class warm up at the higher levels and is ideal for home practice. |
| Improvers: | For clients who have understood and mastered the basic principles covered in Beginners. Your awareness of both good movement and posture deepens and stamina and strength increases. |
| Intermediate/Advanced: | A challenging level requiring agility, suppleness, strength and a high degree of technique. Joseph's original classical repetoire will form the basis of these sessions. |
| Rehabilitation Pilates: | It can be difficult to exercise if you're coping with injury or suffering from chronic pain. These sessions help to regain functional movement safely and many clients find pain is alleviated as a result. As Pilates is low impact and kind on joints, it is a gentle way to return to exercise after injury. |
| Resistance Pilates: | If you play sport or run/cycle Pilates is ideal for cross-training as the method builds strength without bulk and increases flexibility. Weights, toning circles and stretch bands are incorporated into the sessions for a top-to-toe workout. Using small pieces of equipment can also be an aid to weight loss. |
What to wear
You don't need to buy specialist exercise gear but it is important that what you wear allows unrestricted movement and is comfortable. Avoid wearing anything too baggy; close fitting clothing is best as it will enable me to see easily your posture and movement. You won't need to wear trainers as Pilates is practiced either barefoot or in socks. Please bring a clean pair of socks with you to class.
For men: if wearing shorts, only knee length or below is suitable.
© 2007-2012 The Centred Body * Design by Niels Rakhorst * Photography © Niels Rakhorst
Photographs cannot be reproduced without the photographer's prior permission.