Classes and Workshops
Classes
Throughout the year classes are taught in mainland Argyll. The classes
are 1 hour in duration and are booked and paid for up to 6 weeks in advance. They usually run according to the school terms.
A new series of classes are planned for this autumn, working with the clinical physiotherapists at The Lorn and the Islands District General hospital. These classes will specialise in shoulder problems. Dates and details are yet to be decided.
Workshops
Workshops are held on the Hebridean Islands, mainland Argyll and Lochaber. They are one-off and are usually 2 hours in duration. They involve specific themes e.g. pelvis, hip and back problems. These workshops have more intense instruction, with worksheets handouts and props. Sometimes a series of workshops may be held together with a teacher from another discipline, e.g. yoga, making a day of it.
The Benefits of Pilates
There are many benefits to Pilates - here are just some of them:
FEELING AND LOOKING SLIMMER WITH A FLATTER STOMACH
AND A TIGHTER BOTTOM
WALKING TALLER AND MORE CONFIDENT
LESSENED BACKACHE AND RECURRENT BACK PROBLEMS
IMPROVED AWARENESS AND STRENGTH IN THE PELVIC FLOOR
IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY
REDUCTION OF ANXIETY AND STRESS
MORE ENERGY AND BETTER SLEEP
IMPROVED BREATHING PATTERNS
IMPROVED POSTURE
BOOSTED IMMUNE AND LYMPHATIC SYSTEM
CARDIO VASCULAR BENEFITS
ENHANCEMENT OF YOUR OTHER PHYSICAL ACTIVITES
A FORM OF EXERCISE THAN CAN BE SAFTELY AND EASILY
ADAPTED, TO SUIT ALL AGES AND ABILITIES
BODY CONTROL PILATES IS RECOMENDED BY LEADING PHYSIOTHERAPISTS
Frequently Asked Questions About Pilates
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of exercises which target the muscles closest to
the centre of the body, sometimes referred to as the “core”. Pilates exercises teach you to identify these muscles, learn why they are so important for health and how to target them in exercise. The first
Pilates exercises you learn target the muscles below the waist, and
then the muscles of the ribcage and shoulder girdle. In this method of exercising we target the muscles of stability that anchor the body as it performs increasingly more challenging movements.
The Pilates Method was developed by Joseph Pilates nearly a
century ago. These classical exercises are referred to as “The Full
Mat”, which is designed to be performed as a sequence of
movements that flow seamlessly together.
With new innovations and knowledge, modern Pilates has adapted
and evolved the original Joseph Pilates exercises. Pilates exercises
can be performed on specialised equipment; which were developed
by Pilates for the treatment of non-ambulant persons, although the apparatus is used by able bodied persons too. People often associate Pilates with these special machines. The mat-based exercises do not
use machines and they form the basis of all Pilates training and development. I teach Matwork to intermediate level.
Will Pilates Be Safe For Me?
You will be given a Client Enrolment Form to fill in before joining a
class. If you have any conditions which may affect your ability to
exercise, I may need to discuss whether it is safe for you to proceed
with the class. For those attending the intensive residential weekends,
you will be sent out a questionnaire in advance.
If I Fit Into This Group Will I Be Able To Join The Class?
There is usually no reason why not, as long as you understand that you
will be given modified exercises at times.
Why Body Control Pilates?
Body Control Pilates was developed about 10 years ago by a group
of professionals who felt that the original “classical Pilates” movements needed a more elemental approach. This meant breaking down the
moves into smaller more modified and adapted exercises, enabling everyone, regardless of physical ability, to safely access and enjoy
Pilates, whilst gaining a better understanding of why it makes sense
to exercise this way. We pride ourselves in the quality of our teaching, where there is a great emphasis on how to teach well. The Body Control Pilates Association is frequently recommended by health professionals and professional athletes, who know how rigorous our training is, with continuous professional development as an integral part of keeping
our registration. Body Control Pilates teachers are all Level 3 Fitness Instructors and are automatically eligible to be REPS (Register of
Exercise Professionals) members whose minimum requirements we
far exceed. We treat all our clients as individuals and aim to work with
you in achieving your goals.
The Exercises
Pilates exercises target the muscles of the trunk. They also work on lengthening toning and strengthening the whole body. Exercises are performed in a variety of positions. We sometimes use props like
weights and balls to add variety and challenge to the exercises.
Different versions of each exercise will be demonstrated and explained
for beginners to more advanced levels.
Why Have A 1:1?
The 1:1 gives you the advantage of having the basics explained to you
on a personalised basis, taking into account any existing conditions you may have. It also enables me to assess your posture and draw up a personalised programme of exercises if appropriate.
When Can I Expect To See Results?
It is recommended that you practice at least twice a week to feel the benefits. It is also a good idea to sign up for a block of lessons, giving
you time to get the hang of it. If you are attending the intensive residential weekend you will feel great immediately!
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