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