About Pilates and what to expect from my classes
Strengthen and Stabilise acheive this whilst staying relaxed!
Pilates is a form of exercise using controlled movements to tone and
strengthen the body with a major focus on strengthening the body's
"core" (the area of the torso). It targets two areas in particular, which
support the spine; the lower tummy and the mid back. In
strengthening the core, the spine can be encouraged to 're-align',
bringing the body into better upright posture which in turn relieves
muscle tension, reduces wear and tear and helps to reduce risk of
injury. But it is not all about strength, Pilates also aims to increase
suppleness by working the joints through a safe range of
movement. It helps the respiratory system by improving the
efficiency of breathing whilst promoting relaxation. This all together
unites the mind and body
Whatever your level of
fitness, gender or age,
Pilates is a wonderful tonic for
all bodies. Because of the
gentle nature of Pilates,
everyone can do it..from those
with injuries or other
limitations, to the super fit who
are after a greater challenge.
All exercises are modified to
work to each participants
capabilities. Beginners start
with basic exercises and build
up gradually to more
challenging exercises with
careful attention to good
technique, only progressing
when ready. In time the
participant will know their own
limitations and will recognise
the different ways to modify
the exercises. Once the
technique has been learned,
exercises can then be
performed at home, allowing
for more frequency and less
dependence on classes. This
really helps encourage you to
manage your own health and
fitness.
What to expect at a class of Claire Myers Pilates Your
Pace ...my classes aim to encourage everyone to progress at their
own pace. As far as possible, I keep the classes small so that I can
work on a closer level with every participant. In the years that I have
been teaching, I have had experience of a variety of different
injuries and complaints. Even though it is difficult in group classes,
all my classes aim to suit individual needs. I am constantly updating
my skills with further training and research into different ailments to
help me work with a range of abilities and modify exercises when
necessary. As I take the class, I try and impart as much information
as possible about which muscles we are using and why. In this way,
participants learn about their strengths and weaknesses and can
start to take responsibility for their own fitness..Maybe even
practising some Pilates moves at home.
The objective is to help the body work correctly. To do this,
we need to undo some of the bad habits our bodies get into. Even if
you are fit or have done other fitness disciplines, learning Pilates
requires that we start with the basics and build up - in order not to
perpetuate ‘bad movement habits’. Moves are layered to gradually
progress both the physical and mental challenge. Repeating
exercises allows the participant to first learn & perform the moves
correctly and later to stay relaxed as they do them because they are
then familiar. This is a process which may take some weeks. My
classes are planned as a term sequence. Whilst it is not essential
that you attend every class, the progressions are planned over the 6
weeks. Later classes build on principles and moves explored earlier
in the term, meaning you will gain the most by attending the whole
term. Pilates moves in a class situation are aimed at the general
population. Despite this, I try to make sure everyone is comfortable
and given alternatives when necessary. I will leave you to work out
the moves over the first few weeks, intervening when and if
necessary. You are welcome to ask questions. The more I work with
you, the better equipped I will be to modify moves to your particular
circumstances. Your feedback will help with this. The vast majority of
people will respond well to learning in the class environment with
clear instructions. However, if the standard class Pilates exercises
do not help, or you would like more focused