Class Descriptions

 

Private Lessons
Private lessons are available for those desiring to work in close relationship with a qualified Pilates instructor. The Pilates-equivalent of personal training, this way of working can be an extremely effective way to develop your strength, increase your physical and mental skills and improve your health.

 

We ask all clients to book one Private lesson for program review following any extended absences from the studio (one month or more) or if you have experienced changes in your physical condition (such as pregnancy, injury, any new health conditions).

 

Scheduling Private lessons is subject to instructor availability.


Group Lessons
After completing an Introductory Package, you may join one of our regular studio classes. These classes run constantly and participants jump into them when there is space at a suitable time and appropriate level.

 

We keep "master lists" for regular participants in particular classes, so if you choose this option, we expect you in this class weekly unless advance notice is given.

 

Regular Studio Classes run constantly in our schedule, except on Statutory Holidays.

 

Mat Classes
Mat Classes are a unique, systematized method of working with Pilates principles, using mindfulness through movement to release, strengthen and align the body. As a participant in a Mat class, you will work through a series of floor exercises, sometimes using props such as small balls and therabands.

 

Regular Mat practice will noticeably improve:

  • posture
  • strength
  • flexibility
  • circulation
  • motor (neurological) patterning
  • balance
  • body awareness
  • respiration
  • muscle length
  • tone (without bulk)

 

Aches and pains lessen and, in many cases, subside completely, as the body begins to move with more grace and fluidity, thus decreasing the strain put on joints and muscles through everyday activities, or through athletic/artistic pursuits. In addition, even hormonal improvements may be noticed.

 

Note: For beginners with injuries, please ask us whether Mat is appropriate for you. Some chronic injuries/conditions are better served by Pilates Apparatus.

 

Class size:

Beginner - max. of 8 participants
Intermediate and advanced - max. of 10 participants


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Led Reformer Classes
Reformers classes work with the support and resistance of a spring-based piece of equipment, the Pilates Reformer. The foundation of exercises on the Reformer is the same as Mat, but this equipment utilizes resistance and support to aid the body to understand its' movement.

 

The unique qualities of the spring-based equipment assist participants in discovering and establishing efficient habits of movement, which support the development of stronger core and full-body strength as well as increased flexibility.

 

In this type of class, an instructor leads all participants in the class together through a series of exercises, but may also give individualized cueing as needed. A Led Reformer class is an enjoyable and efficient way to truly achieve a gentle, yet full-body workout.

 

Note: Beginners must usually take a series of Private sessions before joining Led Reformer classes, or participate in a Beginner series designed to introduce the material.

 

Class size:

All - max. of 4 participants


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Tower Classes
Tower classes use the ‘Half Trap Table’ (sometimes called the Wall Unit). Like a Led Reformer class, participants are cued all together through a series of exercises. Again, a Tower class is founded on the same basic principles as a Mat class, but has an added factor of the use of spring-loaded equipment.

 

The unique workout offered by a Tower class comes from the vertical orientation of the spring resistances, rather than horizontal (like on a reformer) orientation. A Tower class gives a wonderful sense of lift and decompression in the body, and results can be felt very immediately after a class.

 

Note: Beginners must have some familiarity with the use of Pilates Apparatus (either in private or Series Classes) in order to join a Tower class. Please ask us for details.

 

Class size:

Beginner - max. of 4 participants
Intermediate and advanced - max. of 6 participants


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Semi-Private Classes
These classes are designed for those who may not desire, or for whom it is inappropriate, to be led through a standardized series of Pilates exercises. Instead, participants each follow an individualized program to address particular needs (rehabilitation for injuries, enhancement of athletic performance, etc.).

 

Throughout the hour-long class, an instructor circulates between participants and assists as needed. A participant’s program will generally include exercises on the Reformer, Tower, Mat and small Apparatus, as appropriate.

 

This is the perfect setting for those with injuries or chronic conditions; the individualized nature allows for specificity in accordance with need and for progression at a purposeful and suitable pace.

 

Note: Before entering a Mixed Levels class, a number of Private sessions must be taken. This is to develop an appropriate program, as well as to ensure that basic principles are learned and mastered before working semi-independently.

 

Class size:

All - max. of 4 participants

 


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