Pilates Leeds
Pilates is a unique method of exercise invented by the late Joseph Pilates which brings balance to the body. The demand for Pilates has exploded recently with many people now vaguely aware of Pilates as “something like yoga”. However the reality of Pilates is quite different.
Joseph Pilates taught in his New York studio on machines he invented for the purpose. Most people that come into our studio are unaware that Pilates machines existed – in fact some teachers coming into look around are unaware of them! Joseph Pilates didn’t teach mat work classes – they’re a new phenomenon brought about to bring Pilates to the masses.
Pilates has always incorporated machine work and was challenging – and that sadly has become a little lost with recent” quickie” mat qualifications. Not that every move should require enormous effort but the client should always reach for the next level – and believe me there’s always a next level with Pilates!
In a recent interview Jay Grimes, a first generation teacher taught by JP himself said:
"With Joe and Clara you worked hard. There was very little modifying and no complaining. Joe worked with everyone as individuals, giving them what he felt their bodies needed. The atmosphere was definitely one of business. This was not a place for messing around."
Sounds a little scary but shows you how much has changed if you’ve been to mat class at your local gym lately. This was exercise with serious results, and not something to practice once a week and then forget about until the following class. In my opinion the best results I see in clients are those that do the following:
- A total of 3 to 4 sessions a week lasting between 15 minutes – 1 hour – quality, not quantity is the key
- At least one machine session a week if possible
- At least one session with a fully qualified teacher – in a class or private session
- Perform other forms of exercise, cardio and/or other resistance training during the week, incorporating the principles of Pilates.
As Jay Grimes says
"A good session will massage your entire body from the inside out. You should feel refreshed and invigorated at the end. Long-term, you will reach a point – and this takes years – where you become Pilates and Pilates becomes you. Every move you make will become a constructive exercise, whether getting in and out of your car, walking across a room or reaching a top shelf, because you are using your body correctly. You will feel better, look better and sleep better. Joe’s goal was not that you spend hours in the gym every week, but that you train your body to function correctly, get the juices flowing in the proper direction, breathe and live a robust life. Then for maintenance, do your Pilates in 30 minutes, 3 times a week. Pilates is more than a method of exercise; it’s a way of life"
Pilates learned properly is very effective and leaves you refreshed, strong, never strained. If you’re serious about the technique come to us and experience it for real.
One to One Pilates
Ideal for those who have been recommended by a health professional or for those who are serious about their practice and wish to achieve a more advanced level.
| 8 Sessions | |
| 60 Minutes | £352.00 (£44.00) |
| 45 Minutes | £264.00 (£33.00) |
Duet Pilates
One instructor to 2 clients, great for splitting the cost with a partner, colleague or friend.
| 8 Sessions | |
| 60 Minutes | £440.00 (£55.00 for two people) |
| 45 Minutes | £329.60 (£41.13 for two people) |
Group Reformer and Total Pilates
Equilibrium Health is delighted to be the first in the City Centre to offer Group Reformer classes – the most versatile of all the Pilates machines. With only 6 people in a class you’ll receive hands on attention and experience the toning effect of the Pilates Reformer, incorporating springs that add resistance for extra tone.
Total Pilates combines mat and reformer to provide a greater variety of exercises from the Pilates method. Check out our timetable for times.
We are also happy to arrange a mutually convenient time to deliver a Group reformer session for you and your friends or family. From complete beginners to sports teams we can deliver a class at a mutually convenient time for 3 to 6 people giving you substantial savings on one to one session. Contact us for a quote.
| Drop in - 1 hour | £15.00 |
| Drop in - 45 min | £11.25 |
| 6 sessions - 1 hour class | £75.00 |
| 6 sessions - 45 min class | £56.25 |
Mat Work Classes
A great introduction to the method our mat work classes are limited to 9 people to ensure hands on tuition. Essential level is a great place to start with options of incorporating small equipment, or progressing to intermediate level in time.
| Drop in 60 minute Mat Class | £9.50 |
| 6 sessions of 60 minute Mat Classes | £48.00 |
| Drop in 45 minute Mat Class | £7.50 |
| 6 sessions of 45 minute Mat Classes | £36.00 |
"Following many years of suffering disc problems in my lower back my osteopath suggested that I may find that Pilates could help in strengthening the muscles that support the spine and therefore provide a greater degree of protection against future occurrences. I therefore started Pilates with Claire Wray about 3 years ago and have now progressed to intermediate/advanced level. From the onset I found that Claire's sessions were very well structured, starting at beginners' level and progressing upwards as I was able to do more and more. There was also a calm and logical approach to each series of exercises .Three years on and whilst Pilates will never cure my back problems the improvement in my core muscle strength is such that I can now do much more of the activities that in the past would have laid me up for days or weeks on end. Not only has Pilates help my back problems I have also found it to be good fun and a perfect way to relax after a stressful day at work."
Philip Hartley, Leeds