FAQs
General FAQs
Q: Do I need to bring any relevant scans or medical notes with me?
A: If you have them to hand and have had any recent surgery or complex musculoskeletal problems it would be useful for your therapist to see scan results or medical notes. If you don’t have any copies of scans or medical notes don’t worry, Pilates will be adapted to suit you and your needs after your therapist has taken a detailed history from you.
Q: How do I know if Pilates will help my injury?
A: If you are in pain or have reduced strength or movement following an injury, chances are Pilates can help you. Pilates works by increasing the strength of stability muscles throughout the body to offload joints and reduce pain. Exercises also focus on flexibility to increase movement and reduce tension in muscles.
Q: Can Pilates reduce low back pain?
A: Yes, research has shown that increasing deep core muscle strength increases stability of the spine and reduces back pain.
Q: I don’t have any injuries, can Pilates still benefit me? How?
A: Yes, Pilates can help to prevent injuries as well as treat them. Pilates increases muscle strength, improves postural alignment and improves over all-well-being for anyone, with or without an injury.
Q: How soon after a sports injury can I start Pilates?
A: This depends on your exact sporting injury and levels of pain. Pilates can generally begin once pain has decreased enough for low impact Pilates exercise to commence. Please feel free to call us to speak to one of our therapists if you are unsure if Pilates is right for you.
Q: How does Pilates enhance sporting performance?
A: Pilates enhances sporting performance by developing a strong central core to increase power production for movement. Greater core strength also allows for maximised control, accuracy and speed during sporting performance. Stretching exercises also help to reduce build-up of muscle tension and increase range of movement.
Q: How long will it take before I see the benefits of Pilates?
A: Feelings of improved well-being and reduced tension/stress can be felt immediately, after just one class. Improvements in strength and posture can be seen after 8 one hour sessions of Pilates. If you continue Pilates exercises at home between classes it will take even less time to feel the benefits.
Q: Are there any reasons why I cannot take part in Pilates?
A: Yes, if you are medically unwell please check with your doctor before starting Pilates. Also, if you have severe pain/swelling/restricted movement you will be unable to take part. If you are pregnant and want to start Pilates, you should wait until you are 12 weeks into your pregnancy before you start. If you regularly attend Pilates and are less than 8 weeks pregnant or if you are new to Pilates are less than 16 weeks pregnant, you should not attend until past the correct number of weeks. Also, you should not participate in Pilates if you are less than 6 weeks post normal delivery and less than 8 weeks post C-section. Please let your therapist know if you have any medical conditions or injuries and they will advise on whether Pilates is appropriate for you.
Pilates Classes
Q: Where are the classes held?
A: Please see www.physiolates.org.uk/class-times for an up-to-date list of our class times and locations.
Q: What do I need to bring with me?
A:Nothing, all equipment is provided for you in the studio for the group sessions or in the clinic rooms for 1:1 sessions.
Q: How often do I have to attend a class?
A: You can choose how often you attend. Research suggests it takes 8 sessions (1 hour per week) until you feel improvements.
Q: Can children attend?
A: Children are welcome to attend the Pilates classes if you think they would be able to follow the instructions and exercises for one hour.
Pre and Post-Natal Pilates
Q: Is Pilates recommended while pregnant?
A: Yes, it is an excellent way of exercising while pregnant. Pilates strengthens the deep core and pelvic floor muscles, preparing the body for birth.
Q: Can Pilates do any harm to my baby?
A: No, Pilates exercises the stability muscles of your body without affecting your baby.
Q: Can I purchase pre/post natal Pilates 1:1 sessions for a friend?
A: Yes, you can purchase the pre and post natal sessions for a friend if you wish. Please call us to arrange.
Booking Questions
Q: Is there a waiting list?
A: There is currently no waiting list for the classes or private sessions. If classes become full we open additional classes to ensure you can begin as soon as possible.
Q: Do I need to book before attending a class?
A: Yes, you can book via the website: www.physiolates.org.uk/book-now You can also book via the Mindbody app - search ‘Physiolates’.
Q: Is payment taken in advance for all sessions?
A: Yes, payment is taken in advance when you book. Packages run on a 6-weekly basis and automatically renew unless cancelled.
Q: If something comes up and I need to cancel my remaining classes will I get a refund?
A: If you give more than 24 hours notice you can cancel your class via the website or app. Then you are free to use your credit any other time within your 6 week package. However, if you cancel within 24 hours the credit will be taken.
Q: Can my private medical insurer pay for my sessions?
A: Some private medical insurers cover Pilates private sessions as part of your rehab post injury. Please check with your individual private medical insurer before calling to book.
To book your free taster class click the Book Now tab or call today on 0330 088 5778 or email office@physiolates.org.uk
