Why choose Pilates? What is Pilates? Is it right for me?
Pilates is a form of exercise designed for both the body and mind.
It requires focused and controlled movements, encouraging concentration on movement and breathing. This focus enhances awareness of the body, helping to address and release tension and stress.
Pilates exercises engage deep abdominal muscles such as the transverse abdominis, lumbar multifidus, and pelvic floor muscles. When these muscles are strong, they stabilise the spine by increasing intra-abdominal pressure. A strong core supports all movements in daily activities, sports, and exercises, reducing the pressure on intervertebral discs and lowering the risk of injury.
Pilates incorporates lateral thoracic breathing or ‘belly breathing’, to enhance deep abdominal engagement and promote mental calmness.
It offers a functional training program with a sequence of exercises that improve balance, mobility, flexibility, and muscular strength through both eccentric and concentric phases.
Repeated practice will increase muscular strength, endurance, and stamina gradually.
Whether you're new to exercise, looking to enhance athletic performance or recovering from an injury or postpartum, Pilates can help you move with ease and perform daily tasks with improved posture and alignment, boost your strength, restore balance and calm your mind and body.
Pilates at Fit to the Core
I often incorporate principles of Pilates into my Personal training sessions.
If you are looking for a focussed mat-based session Pilates session I offer:
1:1 session in a studio or at your home (if in the Exeter area)
£45 per session or £165 for 4 sessions
Weekly Group Pilates session at Newcourt Community Centre
How do clients rate Pilates with Sarah?
"I cannot recommend Sarah enough! After struggling with persistent back pain for over six months, I decided to try Pilates, and it turned out to be the best decision I’ve made. Sarah is not only incredibly knowledgeable but also wonderfully personable. She made me feel comfortable from the very first session and genuinely listened to my concerns.
What truly sets Sarah apart is her flexibility and attentiveness. There were a few exercises I struggled with, but she immediately adapted the routine to fit my abilities without making me feel self-conscious. Her creative approach to modifying movements while still targeting the problem areas was a game changer. Over time, I noticed significant improvements, and now I’m completely pain-free!
If you’re looking for a skilled, caring, and adaptable Pilates instructor, Sarah is the one to go to. She made a huge difference in my quality of life, and I couldn’t be more grateful!"
Grace Hicks
