General
Who can do Pilates?
No form of exercise is appropriate for absolutely everyone, but Pilates can be appropriate for most people. Pilates exercises helps both men and women develop optimal strength, flexibility, endurance and better posture, without building bulk or stressing joints. Everyone from serious fitness enthusiasts, to rehab patients, to those over 55 years of age and prenatal clients will see the difference in their bodies with regular Pilates practice.
As with any new exercise method, you should always consult with a doctor before beginning an exercise regime. A modified program may be recommended if you have any injuries or specific issues.How often should I do Pilates?
Joseph Pilates said “After 10 sessions you’ll feel better, after 20 sessions you’ll look better and after 30 sessions you’ll have a new body”BUT, and its a big but, Joe insisted you signed up for a minimum of three months with him and you did three sessions every week. He knew it would take that level of commitment to make lasting changes in the body. Modern life means that its not always possible to make that kind of commitment, so we recommend two sessions per week – one mat and one Reformer/Equipment session as well as some home practice. The more you can put into your home practice the greater the benefits and the faster you see results.
If you would like to develop a home programme, speak to your instructor about booking a One to One. We also offer semi-privates / duets where you work out with another client. You can bring a friend or we can find someone of a similar level to work out with you. Class packs are available if you want to do multiple classes per week. Contact us for details.
Is Pilates just for girls?
There is a misconception that Pilates is only for women. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Joseph Pilates was a man. He was a circus performer and a boxer, he trained military personnel, he smoked cigars, drank whiskey and he spent most of his life teaching in his underpants – as he felt better with the air on his skin. He also taught many dancers, performers and the general public from his studio in New York from the 1920s to the 1960s.Many rugby players, golfers and tennis pros like Andy Murray use Pilates to recover from injury and strengthen their game. The GAA recommend Pilates to their players too. Pilates can help put the power behind your swing, the speed in your sprint and the length in your hamstrings. Pilates will strengthen your back as well as your core, will balance the muscles around your joints to help prevent injury and improve your flexibility.
Image via Hannah Green Pilates
Many men have tight hips and shoulders which can lead to back and neck pain over time. Pilates helps you to understand where you need to stretch and where you need to strengthen your body, thereby improving your posture and leaving you less open to injury. It can be tailored to suit someone with an injury they want to rehab, or an elite athlete wanting to improve their performance.
We use body weight as well as a number of Pilates invented machines to strengthen and/or support and challenge your body in all planes of movement. You can see many testimonials from guys here.
Will Pilates help me to lose weight?
People of all sizes, shapes and ages can take Pilates classes. Among the significant benefits of Pilates for plus-size and overweight people is that it increases the strength and coordination of the muscles of the core of the body, those that support the spine and organs and what Pilates called the “Powerhouse”.
Pilates exercises are done on a mat or on various types of equipment and are done lying down, sitting and sometimes kneeling. These positions make Pilates exercises suitable for larger people who may not be comfortable standing for long periods.
If you are significantly overweight, you might want to start with some individual sessions. This will allow your instructor to find the best modifications and props for you. It will also help your instructor suggest classes, and let you get comfortable with the exercises and equipment.
Please note: Pilates should be combined with other forms of regular cardiovascular activity to gain the most benefit. We can design programs to include cardio in One to One sessions and can advise on Nutrition and Diet also.
I am recovering from an injury. Will I be able to do Pilates?
When your core is strong, posture improves, relieving stress on the joints and muscles. This is one of the reasons Pilates is often recommended for those recovering from injury. Increased flexibility, muscle tone, and balance also improve with regular practice.
A Pilates workout is controlled and steady, with no sudden jarring actions. If you commit yourself to a consistent workout schedule you will feel the results.
We suggest one to one sessions initially when recovering from injury so our instructors can assess you. We can help you modify the exercises as required, and challenge you within your ability. We also use software to provide you with a tailored video based home exercise program. We then work with you to monitor your progress over time. Our instructors can also work in conjunction with your physiotherapist during your post-rehab phase and are experienced with many injuries and conditions including back and neck pain and sciatica as well as other joint and musculoskeletal issues. For more information please read Pilates for Rehab.
Please note: if you have been under medical supervision for any injuries or chronic health conditions, please ensure you have clearance from your medical practitioner prior to starting to any exercise program. If you have been referred by a medical professional, we strongly recommend you book an initial assessment session with us prior to booking any group classes.
Is it safe to do Pilates during pregnancy?
Please note: The following information should NOT be substituted for medical advice from your doctor. Please read our disclaimer and consult your doctor on what will be appropriate for you during your pregnancy.
No two women’s bodies are the same, and this is especially true during pregnancy. There are workouts that are quite appropriate for some people during pregnancy and not for others. During a normal, healthy pregnancy, moderate exercise is safe for the fetus. Exercise is also said to prevent varicose veins, haemorrhoids and low back pain and helps to boost self esteem, maintain fitness levels and prepare the body for the physical demands of motherhood.
A woman’s body goes through many changes during pregnancy and exercise must be adapted and modified as the pregnancy progresses. The beauty of Pilates is that it can be individualized for anyone’s ability. Workouts and schedules during the first trimester may have to be adjusted around fatigue levels. Over the course of the pregnancy the demand on the abdominal muscles should be decreased. During the second trimester, these muscles become stretched out, and some women experience diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles). With reduced abdominal support, there is a greater risk of injuring the lower back. Further, due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, the ligaments surrounding the joints become lax, leaving them loose and vulnerable. For this reason, you should be careful not to overstretch. It is important to continue strengthening and rebalancing the muscles around the joints – supporting the body as it goes through postural changes related to pregnancy.
Today many guidelines for pregnancy indicate that after approximately the 16th week of gestation, the supine position (lying on your back) should be avoided as the maternal blood supply and subsequently the fetal blood supply may be affected. In the second trimester, positioning must be adjusted and light equipment (particularly the Spine Supporter) combined with the Matwork exercises becomes very useful. The possibilities offered by the Reformer, Cadillac and Stability Chair are also helpful. Of course, drinking lots of water and avoiding overexertion and overheating are always important.
We offer prenatal group classes, as well as individual sessions for pregnant clients. Please contact us directly to discuss what is most appropriate for you.
Can I do Pilates after giving birth?
We offer postnatal Pilates classes for new Mums, please see our timetable and studio policies for more information. You must be at least 6 weeks post natural delivery and 12 weeks post C-Section to participate in a session with clearance from your health care professionals to participate. Contact us to discuss your best options.I am recovering from breast cancer – how can Pilates help me?
Well taught Pilates can be a safe exercise for people recovering from breast cancer. All of our instructors are certified to teach the Pink Ribbon Program for post operative recovery. Your instructor can work with you on a tailored program, designed to reintroduce your body gradually to exercise both post surgically and during any adjuvant therapies. The goals are to restore posture and alignment, and minimize muscle soreness, tightness and weakness to help you to be able to do your daily activities.
Pilates can help you to regain the range of movement you had pre-surgery by working the shoulder and chest with gentle movements and breathing exercises. The goal is to rebalance the muscles in the area and also to help improve the your energy levels.
We have worked with many breast cancer patients to help them rebuild their confidence in moving well and regaining function post surgery. Check out some of our client testimonials for details. Our studio is welcoming and open to all – especially those times when you’re not feeling your best. We believe movement is key and we’re here to help you move well. Just get yourself to our door and we’ll help you do the rest.
How can Pilates help my athletic performance?
When Pilates was alive and teaching in his studio in New York, his exercise method was very popular with dancers, boxers, gymnasts and professional athletes. Since his death in 1967, Pilates has been embraced by the medical and sporting world, as it is now widely recognised to facilitate and maximise health and fitness.
Everybody has muscular imbalances, including athletes – it’s part of the human condition. These imbalances, if left unaddressed can, over time directly affect the body’s biomechanics, which can lead to injury and pain and also have an impact on athletic performance.
With regular practice, Pilates can help prevent injury by stabilising the joints and improving alignment. Pilates will assist you in your other sports activities – it will help you ski better, enhance your golf swing, run faster and bike longer – or do any activity better. It is an ideal form of conditioning for other sports and helps you to stay strong and injury free. No matter what your sport, Pilates can work for you.
Am I too old for Pilates?
Pilates can work for everyone – Pilates himself practised into his 80s. Many of his protégées and first generation teachers practised (and taught) into their late 70s.
Pilates is for all ages – it can help with posture, flexibility, strength and many other issues. We are built for movement as humans and that’s how we nourish our joints, its important to keep moving and mobile no matter what your age. So get active and learn how Pilates can help your fitness!
You can build muscle right into your 70s so it’s never too late to start. We offer One to One sessions as well as group Over 55s classes. If you have any specific issues such as hip or knee replacements, osteoarthritis or osteoporosis or other conditions please give us a call to discuss the best options for you.
Matwork is just one component of the whole system of exercises that Pilates offers. When you do Pilates on the Mat, you must support your body weight with gravity as resistance through the movements. Small apparatus, such as balls, rollers, rings, and bands, can also be used in Mat class.
When you work out on apparatus such as the Reformer, your movements and the weight of your body are supported by the carriage as well as by a system of springs varying in resistance. The specially designed springs help tailor the degree of difficulty. The equipment can simplify Pilates concepts for beginners but also then provide unique challenges as you become stronger and more flexible allowing for a greater array of movements and positions.
We recommend at least one Mat and one Equipment session per week to get the most from a Pilates program.
There is a misconception that Pilates is only for women. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. Joseph Pilates was a man. He was a circus performer and a boxer, he trained military personnel, he smoked cigars, drank whiskey and he spent most of his life teaching in his underpants – as he felt better with the air on his skin. He also taught many dancers, performers and the general public from his studio in New York from the 1920s to the 1960s.
Classes
How do I get there?
We are located on Camden Row, just off Camden Street in Dublin 8. We can be easily reached by car, Luas, Dublin Bus or bicycle and are just a short walk away from St. Stephen’s Green. Please view our contact information for a map and more detailed directions.Courses
Pilates Foundation Classes
If you are new to Pilates we recommend you try our Foundation Class or Foundation Course. Our Foundation Classes provide a solid introduction to the principles of Pilates and gets your started on both Mat and Reformer. Once you’ve completed 6-8 Foundation Classes you can progress to our Essential Level classes.You can learn more abut booking into classes, appointments and courses here.
Classes
Group Mat Essentials
This class is suitable after completion of 6-8 of our Foundation Matwork Classes or for those who have less than 6 months of regular Pilates Matwork experience.
At Essential Level we move the spine in all planes of movement, mobilise your shoulder and hip joints and build core strength and endurance. We gradually build up stamina and flexibility as we progress through the repertoire. We also use small equipment such as spiky balls and foam rollers to release muscle tension as well as other Pilates props. We recommend you complete 6 months of regular classes prior to progressing to Intermediate Level classes.
Group Mat Intermediate
This class is suitable if you have been regularly been doing Pilates for 6 months or more and is the next level up from our Essential Level classes. It assumes you are familiar with basics and will increase the challenge in your workout.
At Intermediate Level we continue to build your stamina, strength and flexibility and we increase the challenge to co-ordination and balance. Small equipment such as arc barrels, fitness circles, foam rollers and swiss balls are added to challenge you further.
Group Mat Intermediate/Advanced
This class is suitable if you have been regularly been doing Pilates for 18 months or more and the basics are second nature.
During our Intermediate/Advanced Matwork classes we increase the challenge to your co-ordination, balance, flexibility and strength across all planes of movement. Using bodyweight as well as small equipment to increase difficulty, the class will flow through the repertoire, challenging stamina and endurance.
Group Reformer Essentials
This class is suitable once you have completed 6-8 Foundation Reformer classes or if you have less than 6 months regular Reformer experience.
At Essential Level we move the spine in all planes of movement, mobilise your shoulders and hip joints and build core strength and endurance. We also work on stamina and flexibility as we progress you through the Reformer repertoire. We recommend you complete 6 months of regular classes prior to progressing to Intermediate Level Reformer classes.
Group Reformer Intermediate
This class is suitable if you have been regularly been doing Reformer Pilates for 6 months or more. Intermediate classes are the next level up from Essential Level. This class assumes you are familiar with the basics and will increase the challenge in your workout.
In Intermediate Reformer, we continue to build your stamina, strength and flexibility and we increase the challenge to co-ordination and balance across all planes of movement.
Group Over 55s
Suitable for more mature clients, our Over 55s group classes are designed to get you fit and flexible and to assist in keeping you strong and flexible day to day. We recommend a one to one session prior to joining this group class.
During this class exercises are modified to keep you safe and strong throughout. Functional movements are included to help you outside the studio. We work on balance, posture, flexibility and strength during classes. We can accommodate clients with osteopenia or osteoporosis, modifying exercises to help with bone density, as well as working with those with hip or knee replacements, arthritis and those recovering from injury. Of course those who are injury free are very welcome too. Please contact the studio prior to booking any classes.
Group Pilates for Back Care
This small group class is suitable for those with ongoing back or neck pain, or those recovering from injury.
This class aims to improve posture, work on flexibility and increase awareness of movements that can aggravate pain. During this class, we also work on protocols to help you to release pain at home. Please contact us or book a one to one assessment prior to booking this group class. Group classes are not always appropriate if you have an injury or have been referred by a healthcare professional.
Postnatal Parent & Baby
This class is suitable for new Mums and their babies (up to crawling) who have full clearance from their health care professionals to return to exercise. New Dads are welcome too of course.
Even if you have done Pilates before, getting back in pre-baby shape can be a challenge, so we have designed a progressive program to help you to reconnect to your abdominals, activate your pelvic floor muscles and then to tone, strengthen and stretch the areas that need it. You are welcome to bring your baby (up to crawling) to class. How soon you can join a class will depend on your delivery type – natural (after 6-8 weeks) or c-section (after 10-12 weeks), subject to clearance by your doctor and instructor. Please contact us prior to booking a class. New Dads are of course welcome too.
Prenatal Classes (45mins)
This prenatal class is suitable for Mums to be and uses a modified Pilates program to keep you strong and healthy throughout your pregnancy.
This class is suitable for those who are 12 weeks pregnant or more with clearance to participate from their doctor. The class uses a modified Matwork program as well as Reformer and small equipment to help you support your body through pregnancy and beyond. We recommend a one to one session prior to booking group classes.
Barre & Jumpboard
Suitable only for those who are injury free, you don’t need any previous experience to join our Barre classes. We work on upper body, legs, bums and thighs and will include elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga. Barre exercises rely mainly upon your bodyweight for resistance, and the moves challenge your core stability and balance. We also use the Pilates Reformer Jumpboards to add an extra dimension to your workout. These workouts are designed so you achieve a strong, sleek, and streamlined figure.
Barre exercises rely mainly upon your bodyweight for resistance, though we do use some light weights. We work on upper body, legs, bums and thighs and will include elements of ballet, Pilates, and yoga. Barre exercises rely mainly upon your bodyweight for resistance, and the moves challenge your core stability and balance. We also use the Pilates Reformer Jumpboards to add an extra dimension to your workout. Our Barre & Jumpboard workouts are designed so you achieve a strong, sleek, and streamlined figure. The moves challenge your core stability and balance and help you achieve a strong, sleek, and streamlined figure. Our classes are taught by professional dancers and dance teachers who are also certified Pilates instructors, so you get the best possible experience.
How do I join a class?
If you are new to Pilates we recommend you complete 6-8 Foundation Classes or do some One to One sessions with an Instructor prior to joining regular Group Classes in our studio.
You can learn more about how to book classes, courses and appointments here.If you are attending a group class please make your instructor aware of any recent injuries prior to the class starting. Also please let your instructor know if you have recently found out you are pregnant.We offer discounts for students and the unwaged.How should I prepare for a class?
Drink plenty of water throughout the day to ensure you are well hydrated for your class. Pilates mats are provided so there is no need to bring your own, unless you want to.
Along with large equipment like Reformer, Cadillac and Chair, props and small equipment are also provided for your use (e.g. fitness circles, flexbands, foam rollers, toning balls etc). We also provide changing facilities and drinking water in the studio.Do please try to make sure you get there in time so you can do the warm up prior to getting into more difficult exercises. This is for your own safety and enjoyment.
And lastly, remember to turn your phone off before class – classes are much more enjoyable without distractions from the outside world – both for you and your classmates!
Should I eat before class?
You will be using your abdominals during class so a heavy meal is not advisable before exercise. If you are hungry have a banana or something small to keep you going. Drinking water is provided in the studio. Please make sure you are well hydrated before class as dehydration can lead to cramping during class.What should I wear to a Pilates Class?
Please wear comfortable clothes that aren’t baggy e.g. shorts or leggings and a vest or t-shirt. Guys can wear shorts or tracksuit bottoms – though try to avoid anything with pockets or zips.
It is helpful if you wear form-fitting clothes as your instructor needs to be able to see your posture and muscles as you work out to ensure the exercises are being performed correctly.Please note that our studio is a shoe free zone! We do prefer if you wear socks for hygiene reasons.What can I expect during the class?
Our lunchtime classes last 45 minutes, while morning and evening classes are one hour long, unless otherwise specified. One to One sessions are offered for 30, 45 minutes or 60 minutes. During a group class you will be guided through a warm up and then a series of exercises based at the level advertised. Your instructor will demonstrate as required and will explain each of the moves. Pilates is all about quality of movement rather than quantity so classes will gradually build on strength, co-ordination, balance and endurance. Classes are small to make sure everyone gets individual instruction as required.
Are there showers or changing facilities available?
We currently offer bathrooms and changing facilities, but no shower facilities.What should I do if I need to cancel a Class, Course or One to One Session?
We operate a 12 hour cancellation policy on our group classes but if you cancel outside this 12 hour period you can rebook a different time or date with us or we can provide a refund. We have a strict 24 hour cancellation policy on private sessions. Refunds will be issued within 4-7 days. If you cancel within the 12 or 24 hour periods full session fees are forfeited.
Please note there is an administration fee of €25 for cancellations of 10+ Class passes. For more information on our cancellation policy, please read the studio policies and guidelines.
Booking System
General comments
Our booking system should be intuitive, but here are the basic step-by-step instructions in case you get lost! It will take just a few minutes to sign up and book your classes.
If you have any problems then email or call us and we will get you sorted. We are here to help.
Please note: it is also possible to call us and we can take a credit card payment over the phone or you can pre-pay in cash or cheque in the studio.
Supported browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari and Internet Explorer 9+. Opera isn’t officially supported but it seems to work ok.
If you would like to see the user manual, you can find it here
Initial registration
If you have never been to our studio before you can:
(1) Book a Foundation Class or Course if you are new to Pilates to get an intro to Mat and Reformer classes
(2) Book an Appointment for a One to One – recommended if you have an injury or have been referred by a physio.
(3) Book a class from our timetable if you have previous Pilates experience. Contact us if you are not sure what level is best for you.Booking your classes
To book a class:-
– Click on Class Schedule or Classes to view by Appointments, Classes, Workshops or Teacher Training Courses.
– You can view in list, day or week view.
– Once you have found the Class or Course you want then click on “Enroll”.
– You can then purchase a one-time visit or a Multi Class Pass.
– You can cancel a class and book into another if 24 hours notice is given, within the 24 hour period you forfeit the class as per our existing policy.
– Once you have enrolled in a class you will receive a confirmation email. You can also examine your scheduled classes by accessing your account profile as described below.
– See our full price list.Accessing your account profile
When you are logged into the booking system (which you can access via Classes or Class Schedule menus), you can click on your name on the top right to access your profile.From here you can:-
– View payment history
– View attendance history
– View current schedule
– Cancel classes, appointments or courses
– Manage Email and SMS notificationsOther Info
Please read our studio policies page in detail and note that by attending classes in our studio it is implicit that you agree to these policies.If you have any questions about exercises just ask your instructor after class, or contact us by phone or email – we’re delighted to answer any queries.