Pilates

Pilates is mind-body workout developed by Joseph Pilates during World War I. It is based on Yoga and will strengthen your entire body as well as relieving tension and stress. It is great as a stand-alone exercise, but because it is classed as low impact, Pilates complements other sports by developing strength, alignment and flexibility throughout the body and helping to reduce the risk of injury.

Pilates is a wonderful form of workout for all ages, abilities and fitness levels. Exercises can be adapted to suit any age, body and ability.

Joseph Pilates explained that “in 10 sessions you’ll feel different, in 20 sessions you’ll notice a difference, in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body.”

At Santosha Living we offer a variety of Pilates styles, ranging from Pilates for Common Orthopaedic Conditions, Pilates for Seniors (chair based) and Fitness Pilates. We also have access to Reformer Pilates.

What are the benefits of Pilates?

Regular Pilates exercise can help improve joint mobility, balance and stability, posture and muscle tone. It is commonly used to help reduce non-specific lower back pain as well as injury prevention. Pilates exercises can be modified or progressions given to decrease/increase the level of intensity.
Motivation, calm, empowerment, increased self esteem
Stress management, focus, body awareness, increased concentration
Strength, postural alignment, injury prevention, increased lung capacity

What Santosha Living has to offer you:

Pilates sessions ranging from beginners, chair based to challenging and dynamic.

One to One sessions

One to one sessions are extremely beneficial to those who have specific requirements such as post-operative care, common orthopaedic condition or working towards a goal such as marathon, wedding or any life event!

Click here to enquire or book a 1:1 Pilates session

Live classes

Live classes are a great way to enjoy Pilates and socialise. Some classes may use small mat equipment such as bands and Pilates balls.

How about booking a Live Session today?

Workshops

Workshops are specifically themed classes looking at particular aspects of life, the topics are taught in more detail than a general class and a Pilates based sequence will be part of the workshop.

Enquire about a Workshop session

Zoom classes

Mat based Pilates only requires a mat and some floor space, therefore our zoom classes are a great for home practice. A laptop/mobile and the Zoom app (which is free for you) are all you need and Santosha Living will provide you with the links to classes.

Enroll in a Zoom session now

Frequently asked questions:

What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?

Pilates exercises are based on Yoga, and the objectives of both practices are the same – developing strength, flexibility, balance and stability, alignment and good breathing technique. Pilates exercises include repetitions and movement as well as static holds. Both Pilates and Yoga emphasise the linking of physical and mental health (mind, body, spirit). Pilates doesn’t include ancient scripts or thousand of years old philosophy, so tends to be more exercise based.

Can Pilates help with my back pain?

A main aspect of Pilates is postural alignment and this helps to strengthen the back muscles which can help to relieve non-specific lower back pain. Speak with your Pilates instructor before starting class to get more personalised advice.

Can I injure myself or worsen an existing injury by doing Pilates?

As long as you work within your level of ability and fitness, respecting and listening to your body, injuries from Pilates exercises are uncommon as it is classed as low impact. Talking with your teacher regarding your concerns before class will help you get the most out of your Pilates session safely.

Am I too old to start Pilates?

No way! No one is too old to start their Pilates practice. Its always the right time to start to look after your physical and mental health. There are lots of different levels to Pilates and always a way to modify as well as progress an exercise.

What our clients say:

Our team:

Sandra Ajimal

BWY Teacher, Nutritionist, Pilates Instructor, Behaviour Change Counsellor, Learning Disabilities Yoga Teacher, Yoga for Children, Physical Rehabilitation Therapy, YogaWalx Teacher, Nordic Walking Team Leader

Nikki Brooks

Pilates Instructor, BWY Teacher, Physical Rehabilitation Therapy, Yoga for Children

Ruth Jones

Pilates Instructor, Reformer Pilates, Personal Trainer, Physical Rehabilitation Therapy and Nordic Walking Instructor – Trekfit, Adventure Walx, YogaWalx, Power of the Poles