The Movement Studio

There will be a maximum of 8 participants in a class. It is in the best interest of participants that that a class not become too big, as the instructor cannot then give proper attention to each participant.

A comfortable t-shirt and tights/leggings work best. If pants are to baggy they will hamper movements and shorts can be uncomfortable when doing wide kicks or stretches.
Pilates is done barefoot or with non-slip socks.

Pilates is not an aerobic workout, although there will definitely be some sweating in class! Pilates will tone muscles but if you are aiming for weight-loss, remember the importance of a healthy diet and aerobic activity in your daily routine. As with any good thing, you will have to persevere to see your results.

Pilates exercises are designed to strengthen the core, elongate muscles and improve general postural balance.
Yoga was designed in India to aid its participants spirituality and has a meditative nature. It involves a variety of static postures to increase flexibility. 
Many pilates instructors also complete training to teach yoga adjunctly.
[Note: The exercises that I teach will not be done with any religious or spiritual connection or agenda.]

Pilates is usually safe for anyone but it is always advisable to check with your GP before starting any new exercises, including pilates. 
There may be a few reasons that you would be unable to participate in a class, e.g. severe vertigo, recent surgery, severe pain, very high and uncontrolled blood pressure etc.

Some of the benefits of pilates are:

• stronger muscles
• greater extensibility of soft tissues
• greater muscle endurance/stamina
• improved circulation
• improved lymphatic drainage
• improved body awareness and proprioception
• prevention of injuries and falls (due to the general conditioning nature of the exercises)
• most people will be allowed to do pilates (due to the low impact nature of the exercises)
• aids digestion

It is always advisable to check with you gynaecologist if you become pregnant and want to start, or continue, with pilates classes.

If you are already doing pilates when you become pregnant, it is usually safe to continue with classes, as long as your exercises are adjusted where necessary (especially in the 3rd trimester).
Mommies that have high risk pregnancies, e.g. who have struggled to fall pregnant, who have had miscarriages etc. are not advised to continue classes.

** For the safety of you and your baby, The Movement Studio requires all pregnant mommies to bring a letter from their doctor stating that it is safe to start/ continue with pilates.