Guest Blog: Sarah Bowen, Pilates Tutor and Specialist / PACE Pilates in Bramley, Surrey

An introduction to Pilates power!

Despite being a Pilates teacher for over 10 years, the positive impact Pilates can make to people of all ages still astounds me! Improved balance, posture, core strength and control among other great benefits…a long list.

Whether you’re coming to Pilates to help with an injury, to improve posture and balance, or just for overall health and fitness, you can start anytime. Thanks to the availability of online classes, Pilates is now even more affordable and accessible. 

I recommend that beginners should always start with in-person sessions to gain confidence and make sure the exercises are done safely, but then the options are endless. Group classes provide motivation and a routine of regular classes can really bring benefits more swiftly. Many clients have combined online sessions with in-person classes for maximum convenience around busy schedules. 

One of the key components of Pilates is actually the most straightforward: breathing. By combining breathing with movement, the core muscles are activated more strongly, and the rhythm of breathing can aid deeper relaxation. I find timing the exercise movements to the speed of breathing also helps with focus, as slowing things down means you can concentrate on muscle control, and the deeper core engagement can improve spinal stability. In my experience, many participants claim to feel very relaxed after a Pilates class, with improved sleep as an added bonus. Even as a beginner, you can start with the simple movements and enhance them with concentrating on breathing. It is recommended to have a physiotherapy assessment or to speak with a GP before starting any exercise regime to make sure that it is suitable for your needs, but thankfully the gentle nature of Pilates means that with modifications the exercises are usually achievable by all.

Pilates can also use props to enhance the movements, and there are a few examples:

• The Cadillac is a raised table with a tower of springs and bars to use for mobility, which can work well if you struggle getting down to a low mat

• The Reformer is a spring assisted sliding mat with a pulley system, which is great for low impact strength and stretching

• The floor mat is where many start and use a small soft ball or stretchy bands to add resistance to the principal Pilates movements 

• There are also combination classes using a chair, suitable for those with limited mobility or injuries

As you can see, hopefully something for everyone to improve personal wellbeing through the medium of Pilates.

Contact Sarah Bowen, Pilates tutor and specialist

PACE Pilates runs online and in-person classes, private or hall sessions for all ages and abilities, based locally in Bramley, Surrey.

Telephone: 07535 623989 or email Sarahmbowen@hotmail.com