Anyone know anything about Pilates?

**calfee** · 22-05-2012, 10:03am

Just signed off..again...for the 5/6th weeks off work with a prolapsed disc and subsequent nerve trouble in my left leg. I had my first physio appointment last night and he has suggested (when I am better) pilates to improve my core strength. I've googled local classes but I know absolutely sod all about it to be honest. Is it worth it? All the classes seem to be bookable and payable in 6 week blocks, paid in advance.

TIA

**bluekat** · 22-05-2012, 10:05am

Watching with interest because I've been advised in the past by docs to do some too. Have never bothered my arse though.

**Giggi** · 22-05-2012, 10:07am

I have never been to a class, but started with the Pilates for Dummies DVD last year and think it has really helped my back. I occassionaly have to get involved in restraints at work and was ending up with a pulled back every time and now it hardly ever happens. Definately worth trying a DVD to start you off.

**donna-j** · 22-05-2012, 10:08am

I used to do it and loved it. This dvd gets great reviews (have it and haven't done it yet

) but if you have serious back trouble I would find a good teacher first.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000BW7IB...hvptwo=&hvqmt=

**White Rose** · 22-05-2012, 10:08am

It is very good indeed for improving your core strength, but do make sure you are taught it by someone who has a very good grasp of physio/anatomy and not someone who is unqualified. It's excellent exercise and you'll be surprised at how much you can ache after relatively small movements and how quickly you progress. I was doing it up to 37 weeks of pregnancy and have just started back - I love it!

**donna-j** · 22-05-2012, 10:10am

Oh great minds Giggi

**Giggi** · 22-05-2012, 10:13am

Originally Posted by donna-j

Oh great minds Giggi

It's brilliant! You don't feel like you are doing much but it really works. Do agree that if you have a diagnosed back problem then best to see a proper instructor.

**calfee** · 22-05-2012, 10:16am

Thanks folks, this is the lady I have emailed, she seemed the best option around here

http://www.fifepilates.com/

**bubbasweet** · 22-05-2012, 10:32am

When done properly it's surprisingly hard work

However as others have advised it's definitely best to go to a class first if you've got a back problem.

**silverpod** · 22-05-2012, 10:36am

It is definately better to get to a class if you can and use any dvds as a supplement. It is a great form of exercise, it looks easy but when done properly is hard work. I like it as a lot of exercises are done lying down

and I find I really empty my brain of other thoughts, so it's quite a zen class. Good classes are expensive but worth the dosh as you should see and feel results quite quickly.

**Roseyposey** · 22-05-2012, 11:52am

I love it. I fractured my coccyx two years ago and my physio recommended it. My back is now better than before I hurt my back. Its given me more confidence in my abilities and I'm much more willing to lift heavy loads, do things without thinking about my backfirst etc. Definitely see a good teacher first, not a DVD. My husband is having a one to one with my teacher this week as his posture is terrible and he had concussion a couple of weeks ago and neck pain.

**Velvet Chain** · 22-05-2012, 12:20pm

Definitely don't use a dvd if you are a beginner to Pilates, because some of the moves can be quite technical it is better to have an instructor to teach you proper form as otherwise you can injure yourself.

**Rosa** · 22-05-2012, 12:22pm

I love it too. I go to an advanced class a couple of times a week and it is bloody hard work! I have had two excellent teachers and a few guff ones but in general they are really helpful on the health and movement side.

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**DillyDally** · 22-05-2012, 01:02pm

I love it, I've been doing it for 11 years now! It's deceptively difficult, and I agree with all the others, when you first start, and particularly if you have any sort of injury, you need a good, properly qualified instructor. Not just a gym instructor who did a weekend course. My instructor trained with Body Control Pilates and has an outstanding knowledge of anatomy and how to help injuries. They have a find a teacher section on their website.

The classes will be expensive, because they are only allowed to have 12 in the class (so that they give enough individual attention and watch everyone's form). I think it's quite usual to have to book and pay for a block at a time.

If you want to know anything else, just ask! I know geek_kitten is a fellow Pilates lover too - and I know her instructor comes from the other very well-regarded Pilates organisation. ETA I just clicked on your link to the Fife Pilates teacher, and she was trained by the Pilates Foundation - think that's the other well-regarded Pilates organisation.

**LiLi** · 22-05-2012, 01:15pm

I couldn't agree more. It's really important to attend a class, because it can be quite difficult (if not impossible!) to tell if you're doing it right by yourself. A good teacher can spot even tiny things that need changing, and this can make a huge difference.

Our Pilates class makes you do a short intensive course before you can join the main classes, which I think is a great idea to get you up to speed on the basics (and it can take a ridiculous amount of effort just to learn how to breathe right!

). As regards costs, our classes are £9 for an hour a week, paid in 10 week 'terms'.

I'd say go for it, and see what you think. Obviously exercise is very personal, and Pilates may not be for everyone. Personally I love it, and have been doing it for over 7 years now, through two pregnancies

**Roseyposey** · 22-05-2012, 01:17pm

I would recommend Body Control Pilates too, its the one I do and its great.

**calfee** · 22-05-2012, 01:21pm

Thanks folks

Dillydally, that find a teacher link was great but all the teachers are over in Edinburgh...which is quite a trek back and forwards for me....need to continue the search a little closer to home!

**bisy backson** · 22-05-2012, 01:55pm

not sure if its the same in the UK but a lot of physios over here offer clinical pilates done in a specially equipped studio.

I've just done a 6 week course and its incredible - the improvements made to my core in that time (twice a week) have been unbelieveable - the physio did an ultrasound at the start and finish and you can see the change in the muscles, and also a decrease in fat levels. My arms and legs have great definition and my ability to squat on one leg (?!) has improved beyond all recognition

(i had searing back pain and itb in one leg so made one legged squatting incredibly painful)

I 100% agree though, if you have to do a non clinical class you must get a good instructor and don't try it on your own at home - the smallest changes in position make a big difference to whether you are engaging the correct muscles or not.