About Pilates and what to expect from my classes
© contructed by claire myers november 2014
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