Pilates classes

Pilates classes are run by Sharon, who holds a nationally recognised level 3 qualification for mat-based Pilates teaching and pre and post pregnancy specific Pilates. She is also qualified in orthopaedic conditions and studied rehabilitation for spinal surgery, shoulder rehab, menopause and neuro conditions i.e. Parkinsons.

1:1 sessions are available at £40 per hour, or 2:1 sessions can be arranged. Book yours now.

Class schedule

Monday 5:45pm to 6:45pm
Monday 7:00pm to 8:00pm
Saturday 8:15am to 9:15am

Other classes - members only

Monday 6pm at Lockmeadow Health Club, Maidstone ME16 8LW
Sunday 8.50am at Village Hotel, ME14 3AQ

How it works

There's more to Pilates than developing "strong abs" or "core strength". Pilates focuses on stretching and strengthening the whole body to improve balance, muscle-strength, flexibility and posture. It was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s and incorporates elements of yoga, martial arts and Western forms of exercise.

Initially adopted by professional dancers, gymnasts and athletes in the USA as an effective form of recovery after injury.

What's the difference?

Pilates and yoga

Both Pilates and yoga focus on developing strength, balance, flexibility, posture and good breathing technique. With its emphasis on the unity between the mind and body, yoga has a more spiritual side.

Pilates focuses on breathing, concentration, centring the 'core', precision, flow, control, awareness, stamina and relaxation. Pilates classes are usually in small groups where the teacher can develop programmes to suit each person's strengths and weaknesses.

Pilates with apparatus and Pilates on mats

Joseph Pilates designed his exercises to be performed on specialised apparatus and later developed mat exercises to allow his students to practise at home.

Exercises are mostly performed on the mat, sometimes using small pieces of equipment such as stretch bands and gym balls.

Benefits

There are many reports on the health benefits of Pilates. Pilates can help improve posture, muscle tone and flexibility, core strength and joint mobility, as well as relieve stress and tension.

There's some evidence that Pilates can provide pain relief to people with non-specific lower back pain. For the exercises to be effective, they need to be tailored to the individual.

Book a pilates class

Get in touch, book an appointment or call 07932 955689.