Julie Bloom | Pilates Inspiration
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is it for?
A: Everybody! Young or old, including those with:
- Postural problems
- Back pain
- Osteoporosis
- Stress-related conditions
- Asthma
It can also help athletes wanting to enhance their performance. There is no age limit on learning Pilates.
Q: How often do I need to do Pilates?
A: It is recommended at least twice a week. However, even one class a week is better than none and we will always encourage you to do some homework, especially if you are using Pilates to help with your rehabilitation.
Q: How do I start?
A: The best way to start is by giving me a call or contacting me via email. I can then answer any questions you have. If you want to proceed, I will post or email you an enrolment form and a booking form. The enrolment form asks questions about your medical history, current health and fitness levels and your objectives.
I will also help you determine whether you would best be suited to private 1 to 1 lessons, or a group mat work class environment. It may be that you start with anything from 1 to 3 private lessons before you are able to join a class. This will depend on the availability of beginner’s classes, your fitness level and any past Pilates experience. I assess you as an individual and your safety and well-being are always our number one priority.
I look forward to welcoming you very soon.
Q: Why is Pilates so popular?
A: Because it really does work so it gets a lot of good press. It is endorsed by Physiotherapists, Osteopaths and some doctors and has a huge celebrity following, such as Madonna, Sharon Stone, Courtney Cox, Wayne Sleep, Pat Cash, Uma Thurman, Michael Crawford, Jodie Foster, Glenn Close, Belinda Carlisle, Hugh Grant, Jennifer Aniston, John Cleese, Patrick Swayze, Liz Hurly and Gwyneth Paltrow to name but a few. In fact, it would almost be quicker to complete a list of celebrities who do not do Pilates!
Q: What Should I Wear To A Pilates Class?
A: Something that you are comfortable in and that does not restrict movement - leggings, tracksuit, t-shirt etc. I do not wear trainers in Pilates, but ideally, socks will be worn.
Q: Anything else?
A:
- Do not eat a heavy meal immediately prior to a class
- Do not drink alcohol
- Do not participate if you are feeling unwell
- Painkillers can mask the signs of pain so you may wish to avoid taking them before a class
- Pilates is a fitness regime, so as which is normal practice, if you are on medication or have any illness or injuries that you feel may be affected by exercise, always consult your doctor first
- You may like to bring a small bottle of water to class
Q: What Equipment is used?
A: All equipment is provided and includes the following, although all of it may not be used in every class:
- Mats for your comfort and protection
- Head cushions to ensure your spine is in it's neutral, natural alignment
- Bands to assist you with safe stretching
- Pilates toning balls for toning inner things, pelvic floor, upper body, neck etc.
- Toning circles for toning upper arms, inner/outer thighs, upper back, stomach and buttocks and to assist you with safe stretching
- Weights for toning upper arms
- Spiky balls to assist with sensory feedback, fantastic for massaging muscles and helping to alleviate any tight spots, relieving tension and stimulating blood circulation
- Stability foam rollers to challenge deep muscle isolation