Class Descriptions
Healthy Backs, Stretch and Restore Level 1-2
Healthy Backs, Stretch and Restore classes are taught at a slower pace with an emphasis on lengthening and mobilising the spine. The focus is on moving with intention and finding deep core strength connections to support the spine. Restores both mind and body.
Pilates Mat Level 1-2
Level 1-2 is for those who have done some Pilates before. The pace is moderate and the focus is on strengthening the core, correcting body alignment, re-balancing muscles and improving posture. Some of the more challenging exercises from the classical mat are introduced and can be adapted for different levels of ability. The classes aim to build strength, stamina and co-ordinated, graceful movement. As with all levels of Pilates, precise movement requires focus and together with proper breathing, this develops a mind- body connection that is deeply relaxing and rejuvenating.
Classical Pilates Mat Level 2-3
The classical mat is a series of 34 exercises developed by Joseph Pilates and performed in a faster paced, flowing sequence. Each exercise transitions into the next, gradually building in difficulty, developing core strength and stamina. Performing these challenging exercises in a graceful, flowing manner requires a strength and control that takes time and commitment to develop but which, when achieved, is deeply satisfying.
Although based on the classical structure, each class has a slightly different focus and often incorporates small equipment such as hand weights, the magic circle, leg weights and resistance bands to help clients to learn a new challenging exercise, to help build strength or to add a different dimension.
It is perfect for people who have been doing Pilates for a while and want to be challenged. It is not suitable for beginners.
Pilates for Bone Health focuses on core strength, good posture and alignment, but includes more repititions to help to maintain or build bone density. It is particularly suitable for people with Osteopenia and level 2 Osteoporosis as it aims to develop muscle strength around vulnerable areas such as the spine, hips, ankles and wrists. Forward bending or flexion is limited to a few gentle mobility exercises, while exercises that help lengthen the spine and strengthen spinal stability are given particular emphasis.
1:1s are brilliant for beginners, for people with specific issues or injuries, and for those who are initially intimidated by larger classes. They often result in faster progress with exercises tailored to individual needs. Many people find an hour of personal attention in which they are allowed to focus on their own body more useful than years of classes. 1:1 sessions generally make use of the mat, tower, spine corrector and reformer – depending on the specific goals.
Reformer 1:1s
The reformer was designed by Joseph Pilates to build strength and mobility using resistance. It can be used as a tool for safe rehabilitation after an injury or to achieve amazing improvements in all over body strength. Lessons start with the fundamentals and are progressed up to the full classical reformer repertoire, depending on the specific need or goal of each client. Be prepared to find muscles you never knew you had!
HIP Pilates (High Intensity Power Pilates)
High Intensity Power (HIP) Pilates is intended to bridge the gap between Cardio workouts and Pilates. Whilst retaining the principles of Pilates such as alignment and core stability it aims to raise the heart rate. Small hand weights are used in conjunction with sequences of lunges, squats and plank variations. It ends with core strengthening exercises on the mat and stretching. It is excellent for cardiovascular health, burning calories and bone health.
For further details on any of the above classes please contact me at: nicolearendpilates@gmail.com
