Pilates Classes in Bristol
Pilates classes - Beginners and Intermediate
Beginners Pilates
Introduces the basic principles of Pilates mat work. Focussing on alignment, control, posture, core strength, balance and flexibility. Lots of the exercises are performed lying down, on hands and knees or standing on the spot so minimal space is required. For beginners, it is wise to start with one Pilates class a week to see how your body feels after your Pilates workout. If you are quite fit, you can try starting with two classes a week. If you are experienced, you may do as many classes a week as you wish. Always remember to listen to your body and allow it to recover at least one day a week.
Intermediate Pilates
Based on Joseph Pilates classical mat series, this is a faster paced, challenging work out which builds on his 7 principles of exercise. It requires greater stamina, strength, physical control and flexibility alongside a deeper understanding and previous practice of the repertoire.
To get the best results, it is recommended to do a variety of workouts so that you are continually challenging your muscles, therefore we offer a variety of different classes with varying levels of intensity.
Pilates Exercise Classes
To quote Joseph Pilates: “In 10 sessions you will feel better, in 20 you will look better, and in 30 you will have a whole new body.”
If you are doing 2-3 classes a week, you should start to see results in 10-12 weeks. If you attend one class a week, you will still see results but it might take longer.
What is Pilates?
How do I book a Pilates class?
Simply register with the Greenway Gym for free by either downloading the MemberMe+ app or visit our online members area.
Once you are registered you can pay for individual classes at £5 per class, purchase an ALL-IN! membership and attend as many classes as you like or purchase a 10 class pass for the price of 9!
If you require help with registering please contact us by calling 0117 9503335 or email us at info@southmead.org
Who is Pilates for?
Anyone can attend a Pilates class, it’s suitable for all abilities and ages, our experienced and attentive instructor will demonstrate adaptions to all exercises for all levels of fitness and ability. It is helpful to some prior experience of Pilates for our intermediate class. If you’ve not done Pilates before, start with our Beginners class to get started!
If you are concerned about the suitability of the class for you simply email us for a quick chat at info@southmead.org
Will my muscles be sore after Pilates?
Muscle soreness after Pilates depends on your athleticism and muscle memory. You will get out of Pilates what you put in. This means, if you do not make a conscious effort to recruit muscles correctly and focus on proper form, you will not feel sore afterwards. Pilates is designed to be a workout so you will feel your muscles working, however you should never feel any pain in the neck, back or joints. It is quite common to be sore and a bit fatigued, but of course this also depends on your fitness level prior to beginning the classes.
I have a lower back injury/pain. Is Pilates safe for me to do?
As long as you are cleared by your doctor or physical therapist, Pilates is a fabulous way to help alleviate lower back pain or rehabilitate after a back injury. Traditional crunches only work the outermost abdominal muscles. Pilates strengthens the entire core region – including the deep abdominal muscles, pelvic floor, lumbar extensors, and buttocks – to completely stabilise the spine and lumbopelvic region, bringing the body into correct alignment and helping to alleviate the pain. Please inform instructors prior to class of your condition – they can adapt exercises so you can be safe. Never do any exercise that causes any pain in the lower back.
Can I do Pilates if I am pregnant/postnatal?
Pilates is a great way to maintain fitness throughout pregnancy and to rehabilitate after labour. We are not currently offering specific ante or post-natal Pilates, please email us at info@southmead.org to speak to an instructor to discuss your individual needs.
How long is a Pilates class?
45 minutes.
Should I bring anything to class?
Please bring a towel or mat to lie on, socks with grips on the sole if you have some and a water bottle.
What should I wear?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing in which you can move freely.
Do I need a gym membership to take part?
You do not need to be a member of the Greenway Centre Gym to take part in the class, simply register for free online, create a Greenway Gym account and then you can book and pay for classes online as and when you like. If you would like to join the gym and attend as many classes as you wish for only £19.99 with our ALL-IN! Membership then simply register in the same way and purchase a membership online. Move GB customers can also book a space on this class.
I have never attended an online class before, how do I do it?
Before you book and pay for a class or membership, you’ll simply need to register and create a Greenway Centre account.
You can either purchase an ALL-IN! Membership and attend as many classes as you like or pay for classes individually. Once you have booked into a class please read the following tips to help you to have a smooth experience.
Once you have booked a class you will receive an email with a link to the class. Each group fitness class email link is individual to the class and can only be used to access one class.
If you are booking lots of classes check you have the exact link.
You should not be asked for a passcode as this is embedded in the link. If you are asked for a passcode it is likely you have the wrong link, check and click again.
At busy times you may need to click the link a few times so it is good to come in 5 minutes before the class starts to avoid the last minute rush.
SOUND
Once in check you have your sound and video on. These are small icons and on most devices found on the left hand bottom corner of the screen. If they have a red line through them they are off, click once and they should come on.
Make sure your device volume is unmuted and turned up or use an external speaker for improved sound.
Once the class has started it is difficult for the instructor to help you so ring us on 0117 9503335.
Frequent problems on Zoom are covered with these tutorials, it is worth familiarising yourself with this video platform before you try to access a class or Zoom a relative or friend to practice.
Most problems experienced by Zoom users can be easily rectified by using the links below.
Zoom support link.
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/sections/200521865-Video
Getting Started on Zoom
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362033-Getting-Started-on-Windows-and-Mac
My Video or Microphone is off
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/203024649-Video-Or-Microphone-Off-By-Attendee
My Camera isnt working
https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/202952568-My-Video-Camera-Isn-t-Working
Joining a Meeting by phone. https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362663-Joining-a-meeting-by-phone
Meet our Pilates instructor
Paula.
I am a Level 4 Group Exercise Specialist, which means I am qualified to offer differentiated exercise classes that can adapt to the needs of anyone looking for a class or exercise regime. This means that all classes that I teach are inclusive. I teach a range of group exercise classes for all ages and levels and specialist groups who have a particular aim to work to, this includes Strong Nation™, HITT, Pilates, Cardio-Combat, falls prevention, moving with arthritis, diabetes, obesity or lower back pain. If you have a question about any of the classes on the timetable you can find me at fitness@southmead.org
Online Pilates Feedback
Here’s what some of our members have been telling us about their experience with our online classes.
“I was delighted when I heard that the Greenway Gym was going to offer online Pilates during lockdown and signed up immediately.”
“Pilates classes via Zoom are really helpful for my fitness and making me feel good, so to be able to do them during lockdown is brilliant. I hope they will continue.”
“I am able to use my tv to see the class which makes it easy to see and to follow the exercises especially when lying down and it is very comfortable doing them in my sitting room.”
“I have been able to attend the Pilates classes more frequently than when they are at the Greenway Centre and of course no excuses about it being too cold or too wet to go out!”
“I really value these classes. Because it is on Zoom and you can talk to the instructor and she can see if you are doing it correctly and advise you if not, it is much better than just following a video.”
“Paula always offers lower impact options so that you don’t get left behind.”
Pilates classes in Southmead, North Bristol?
How to find us
Our Pilates classes are usual held at the Greenway Centre in Southmead. Currently all classes are live online. Register today!