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Pilates Classes & Frequently Asked Questions
- Andrea Lucas
- Oct 24, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Nov 4, 2024
We want to make moving better and feeling better as easy as possible, but we understand that you can have concerns or worries when it comes to starting exercise or re-starting exercise after injury or a period away.
That's why we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help demystify certain things, and to put you at ease.
What services do you offer?
We offer a comprehensive range of services in our Hillsborough and Dromore studios including:
Physiotherapy
Sports Massage
Shockwave Therapy
Pilates
Reformer
Barre
Yoga
Bike Fit
Nordic Walking
Corporate Wellbeing Services
Antenatal, Postnatal and Mum & Baby Classes
Kids Yoga & Teen Fit
What should I wear to a Pilates class?
Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely. Avoid loose shirts that might fall over your head during exercises. Grip socks are recommended but not mandatory.
We have grippy socks available to purchase.
Do you provide equipment?
Yes, we provide all necessary equipment including mats, reformers, and props. You only need to bring yourself and appropriate clothing.
For reformer classes, you don't need shoes, but grippy socks can help you get better purchase on the equipment.
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions to help you get started:
Do I need water, and are there showers or changing rooms?
We recommend bringing your own water bottle, and we’re happy to refill it for you if needed. Please arrive dressed in your workout clothes, as we don’t have showers or dedicated changing rooms. However, if you need to change, we can direct you to a suitable area.
How early should I arrive before class?
We recommend arriving 5 minutes before the class starts to settle in, especially if it’s your first time. There may be a class beforehand and some of our venues don’t have waiting areas so don’t arrive too early!. 5 minutes will give you time to meet your instructor and get set up for the class.
What is the parking situation?
All our classes have parking available either onsite or on the street nearby. When you book your class the class location and parking will be sent to you in an email. Parking can differ depending on the time of day so we recommend you give yourself plenty of time to find a parking space and familiarise yourself so you arrive in good time and avoid stress.
Can Pilates help with recovery from a specific injury or surgery?
Yes, Pilates is often recommended by healthcare professionals to aid in rehabilitation after injuries or surgeries. The low-impact exercises can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and restore mobility and range of movement.
We have trained Pilates instructors who are also Physiotherapists. Each of them are passionate about how great Pilates is in the rehabilitation journey.
We love helping people get more confident, develop strength and improve their well-being through exercise.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise performed on a specialised piece of equipment called a Reformer. The Reformer has a sliding carriage with springs, ropes, and pulleys that create resistance.
The Reformer enables a full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, and balance through controlled movements, while the spring resistance system can be adjusted to make exercises easier or more challenging depending on your fitness level.
in one of our lessons, you get a full body workout of your core, legs and arms all using the Reformer bed. Start easy with easy springs and work your way up.
Find out more about Reformer Pilates.
What is Barre?
Barre is a low-impact workout that combines ballet-inspired moves with strength and cardio exercises to work all your muscle groups. It's a really fun but challenging workout.
Our clients are often surprised at what a great workout Barre is.
Find out more about Barre.
Can I do Reformer Pilates when pregnant?
Yes, reformer can be a great low-impact exercise for pregnant women. The reformer bed uses springs to give resistance, but they also provide support controlling movement while you strengthen your muscles.
Our specialised Reformer Pilates classes for pregnant women are designed to support you throughout your pregnancy and postpartum journey, helping you move better with ease and feel your best.
By focusing on pelvic floor control, core strength, upper and lower body strength, posture, flexibility, and overall well-being, these classes will equip you with the tools to navigate pregnancy and motherhood with confidence.
Our expert instructors, Andrea Lucas, Hollie Thompson, and Anita McBriar, are specifically trained in antenatal and postnatal Pilates, including Reformer techniques. They can offer you personalised guidance through private one-on-one sessions or in a small group setting.
We often have women say that after having attended a course of Pilates or Reformer Pilates they feel themselves again and able to engage their core.
When can I attend Mum and Baby Pilates?
This class is suitable for Mums to attend from 4 weeks after a normal delivery and 6 weeks after a caesarean section following your postnatal check.
We offer postnatal checks in Hillsborough and Dromore from 6 weeks and can assess your readiness for exercise. We'll also determine any issues like pelvic floor or abdominal wall weakness to work on.
Find out more about Pregnancy and Post-natal Reformer Pilates.
How is Yoga different to Pilates?
Yoga is a holistic practice that combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Yoga, helps with your physical health, improves flexibility, and increases strength.
We offer Yoga Flow classes in Hillsborough, run by experienced instructors who will guide you through poses and breathing techniques.
We have beginner-friendly Yoga Flow classes that are accessible to everyone. You'll very quickly develop confidence in the Yoga postures.
If you'd like more of a challenge try our Yoga Fit classes in Hillsborough. These involve a great core workout with warrior flows and lots of strengthening poses. Following the same sequence each week you will see improvements each week.
Find out more about Yoga.
At what age can children start yoga?
We offer kids yoga from P1 up to P7, and Teen Fit from ages 11-18.
Classes are 45 minutes long and will be small in numbers (max 9) to allow individual attention within the group.
Find out more about our Kids Yoga and Teen Fit Classes in Hillsborough.
What can I expect from Teen Fit classes?
Teen Fit classes offer a dynamic blend of strength training, Pilates, and yoga-inspired movements that will enhance your overall fitness. You'll develop upper and lower body strength, improve flexibility, and strengthen your core and hip stability. Plus, you'll work on balance and posture.
Each class is designed to provide a comprehensive workout, starting with a warm-up, followed by a full-body routine, and ending with a cool-down. Modifications are offered throughout the class to ensure that everyone can participate at their own pace.
Find out more about our Teen Fit Classes in Hillsborough.
I'm not very fit, will I be able to manage the classes?
Absolutely! Our physio-led pilates and reformer classes are designed to cater to all fitness levels, including beginners. All Active Pilates & Physio is unique in that our Pilates and Reformer Pilates sessions are run by experienced physiotherapists.
They guide you through each exercise, ensuring proper form and modifications to suit your individual needs.
Our focus is on strengthening your body, improving flexibility, and enhancing your overall well-being.
Please don't worry about being unfit; we're here to help you achieve strength and flexibility and enjoy your classes too!
How do I book on to a course?
With our membership programme, you become a member of All Active Pilates Physio. You can then book onto courses.
All you need to do is download the WellnessLiving Achieve Booking app.
