The benefits vary from person to person and the list is extensive, but common accolades include: better sleep; increased awareness of day-to-day posture; the ability to take action when a repetitive physical issue arises and understand why it is happening; reduction in or removal of back pain; greater strength and flexibility; ability to carry out basic tasks (putting socks on while standing!) that have previously been unachievable; and a greater sense of connection to your day-to-day life.

Reformer Pilates takes the traditional principles, movements and exercises of Joseph Pilates' original matwork programme and combines them with the reformer machine, one of several machines that Pilates himself designed for the rehabilitation of athletes, dancers, wounded soldiers and many others.

The reformer challenges or aids the movement of the body via a moving carriage on a frame with five springs of varying strengths. Pulleys, ropes and straps attached to the moving carriage, along with a moveable foot-bar, shoulder rests and the frame itself, make for a huge array of exercises designed for the targeting of specific areas for strengthening or range of movement at joint level, or a full body workout.

Absolutely, yes! It’s important to participate at the correct level for you, however, which may mean dropping down a level from time to time to reengage with the basics. Because Pilates combines the physical and mental, you can always hone the more basic principles in order to develop a better understanding of movement, or focus on the coordination and quality of your breathing within that movement.

They all carry their advantages and disadvantages but for quality movement, a deeper connection to your body, and understanding of both your own movement and Pilates exercises in general, teacher feedback, corrections and dialogue (how does it feel/what and where do you feel it?) are essential to your growth and development. Interactive classes are also more likely to keep up your momentum and development to the point where you see and feel results.

This depends on what you are hoping to achieve – what are your short- or long-term goals? We usually say that in six sessions, you and your instructor will have a greater understanding of your body, how it works and the areas of movement that require attention. You will also be able to understand a little more about the terminology or language used, how your instructor teaches and whether a change to a different instructor or alternative exercise system might be beneficial.

Ideally something comfortable but fairly fitted so that your instructor can more easily see the positions your body takes and make considered corrections (manual or verbal cues to take your body out of the ‘habitual' movement or space and into a new, more beneficial space). Socks must be worn in the studio and we have a no-shoes policy once inside.