What is Pilates?

Pilates is a form of exercise that is based on the anatomical understanding of how the muscles, ligaments and bones of the body all work together.

The exercises focuses on strengthening, elongating and restoring the correct structure, function and balance to the body. Each exercise program is specifically designed for the person who is taking part, therefore making to a truly holistic approach to restoring optimum function to the body.

How does Pilates Work?

Mat work pilates uses a series of exercises which uses your own body weight and gravity to achieve its results. It works on improving mobility and flexibility to the joints, strengthening and supporting the core muscles, and helps to increase balance and co-ordination. Pilates also has mental-emotional effects via integrating the mind, body and spirit, relieving stress, and increasing body awareness.

What can Pilates be Used For?

By the nature of the exercises Pilates can be used for anything safely and effectively. By its influence on joint mobility and general strengthening it has great benefits to people suffering from osteoarthritis, scoliosis and osteoporosis. Whilst Pilates doesn’t claim that it can “heal” or stop osteoarthritis or osteoporosis it can help to elevate the pain and aches that are associated with these conditions. As it’s a low impact form of exercises it is also safe to use at any stage of these conditions.

It is an excellent form of exercise for pre and post-natal women at any stage of pregnancy and no matter what form of labour you have had. The Pilates instructor is qualified and able to help and advise what level the exercises can be used to and what is appropriate for your pregnancy stage or post-natal stage.

Pilates is now becoming an extremely common form of exercise used for sports people from all areas of the sporting arena.

Your teacher: Katie Rowlands

I started my career in the fitness industry in 1996, gaining a diploma in personal training and advanced fitness instruction. I also gained City & Guilds NVQ in Sports & Recreation.

Since then, I have enjoyed for many years helping people realise the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, including teaching circuit training, undertaking fitness assessments and cholesterol testing.

I have always had a keen interest in rehabilitation and injury prevention and in 2004 decided to channel this interest into studying to become a Pilates instructor and was successful in gaining this qualification, certified by the Oxford & Cambridge RSA Examinations.

I have since gained over 7 years experience in teaching mat based Pilates, from beginners through to advanced, providing courses for Hampshire County Council leisure centres and the private industry.

I enjoy an active lifestyle and have two young children and a dog to keep me busy. I am a keen and adventurous skier and also enjoy walking, running and playing the guitar.

For more details on our Pilates classes click here