Beginners · your first class, explained
Pilates for beginners in Poole
You do not need any experience, any particular level of fitness or any kit. You need a class small enough that someone is actually watching you. Reformer classes here are capped at six, and every class is taught by a fully qualified Pilates teacher.
Your first class
What actually happens
Before
Arrive ten minutes early
You complete a short health screening when you book, so the teacher already knows about anything that needs adapting. Arrive a few minutes early and they will show you the equipment and set your springs.
During
Nothing is a test
Each exercise is offered at two or three levels. You take the one that suits your body that day. Corrections are given out loud and, where it helps and you are happy with it, hands on.
After
Ask everything
Teachers stay behind after class. If something felt wrong, or you want to know what to book next, that is the moment to ask.
Where to start
Matwork, reformer or one to one
Matwork
Learn the language
Breath, alignment and control using your own body weight and small props. The fastest way to understand what every other class is asking of you.
Reformer
Let the springs help
The carriage supports as much as it resists, which is why a lot of beginners find the reformer more approachable than the mat. Capped at six.
One to one
If you would rather not start in a group
A private class is the right first step if you are managing an injury, returning postnatally, or simply want the first hour to be entirely about you.
What it costs to try
A first visit, without a commitment
The Discovery Pass is £30 and exists so a first visit is a low-stakes decision. A single class is £25. Memberships start at four classes a month, and there is no reason to take one until you know you want to keep coming.
If you are travelling in from Bournemouth or the surrounding area, the studio is at Ashley Cross with on-street parking around it.
FAQ
Beginner questions, answered
I have never done Pilates. Can I join a normal class?
Yes. Every class is taught at two or three levels so the room moves together, and reformer classes are capped at six so a first-timer is never left guessing. Tell the teacher it is your first time and they will keep an eye on you throughout.
Should I start with matwork or reformer?
Either. Matwork teaches you the breath, alignment and control with your own body weight. The reformer adds springs that both assist and resist, which many beginners find easier because the machine gives you feedback. Most people end up doing both.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes you can move in, and grip socks if you have them. We provide mats, props and everything else. Bring water.
How fit do I need to be?
Not at all. Pilates builds the strength rather than assuming it. We teach people coming back from injury, people in their seventies and people who have never exercised regularly.
How soon will I feel a difference?
Most people notice how they stand and move within a handful of classes. Strength and mobility change over weeks rather than days. Twice a week is the point at which it compounds.
What if I have an injury or a health condition?
Tell us before you book, through the contact form or on the health screening we ask everyone to complete. We adapt exercises constantly, and for anything complex we would usually suggest starting with a private class so a teacher can work with you one to one.
Do I have to commit to a membership?
No. The Discovery Pass is designed for a first visit, and single classes are available. Memberships start at four classes a month and only make sense once you know you want to keep going.