Joe Pilates originally developed his method as mat exercises but, in common with many other physical culture systems from the first part of the twentieth century, he used several pieces of apparatus to help people “get the method in their bodies”. Each piece of apparatus has its own repertoire of exercises and most of the exercises done on the various pieces of Pilates apparatus are resistance training since they make use of springs to provide additional resistance. Using springs results in “progressive resistance”, meaning the resistance increases as the spring is stretched. The most widely used piece of apparatus, and probably the most important, is the Reformer.

The Reformer consists of a series of springs, straps and pulleys on a frame with a gliding platform, not unlike that of a rowing machine. It is used to tone and strengthen core muscle groups and can be used to perform over 100 different pilates exercises.

Workouts consist of controlled, flowing movements working your muscles through a full range of motion. The reformer adds increased resistance to the movement. By working to overcome this resistance, training results in increased fitness levels.  Other benefits can include; increased muscular endurance, increased core strength, improved posture, increased flexibility, improved breathing and reduced body fat.

Workouts on the Reformer are challenging and fun, if you would like to try one of our new classes, see our timetable for information and contact us to book.

A HUGE WELCOME to Corali Bolwell – who is joining our team after Easter.  Have a read of Corali’s bio on the website and I’m sure you will be queuing up to try her new classes.  Corali has over 20 years of experience as a Sports Massage Therapist and Kinesiologist; she recently qualified with Body Control Pilates.  Corali will be starting brand new beginner groups on Monday and Tuesday evenings.  Please see our latest Spring timetable for all our new class info.

Not only are we open during Easter 2012, we are also offering FREE Reformer Open Days.   Come and experience this amazing piece of equipment in April on Monday 2^nd and Tuesday 3^rd 2-5pm, Tuesday 10^th 2-5pm and Wednesday 11^th from 10-11 am.   Hope to see you in our second studio (first floor and past reception) there for demos, trials and any questions you may have about the equipment available in our fully equipped studio.

I still cannot believe we are coming to the end of the Winter Term.   Time has flown by and Easter will soon be upon us.   But don’t despair – to escape the endless chocolate eggs tempting you at home – come along to the studio!  WE WILL BE OPEN EVERY DAY EXCEPT THE EASTER WEEKEND!!  So you can feel guilt free about the chocs after a pilates workout.    Maybe we will just need to do extra abs during those weeks!!  Our Easter Pick and Mix timetable is now available at reception and open for your bookings.  We have a special Easter deal – two classes for £27!

Starting on Saturday 3^rd March at 1045 and the first weekend of every month thereafter, we are pleased to announce we will be running unique Basic Principles Workshops at Creattiva Pilates.   Vicki will run these one hour sessions at a cost of just £10 per person.  Each workshop will be a review of principles – breathing, core muscles, pelvic stability, shoulder stability and basic movements.  We encourage all new joiners to Creattiva Pilates to take one of these workshops – especially if you are joining mid way through a term.   Equally useful for existing clients who would like to refresh and check techniques and be updated on latest research into core stability.   Bookable at reception in advance – maximum of 8 participants per workshop.

New equipment arrived in February to the studio – expanding our second studio and allowing the inclusion of the popular Reformer workout.  We will be holding some open sessions soon, so please look out for the dates in our next newsletter.   But, what is a reformer and why should you give it a go?

It was invented by Joseph Pilates himself – a truly great invention by one man!   It is a bed like frame in either wood or metal with a flat platform on it, which moves back and forth on wheels in the frame.  It has springs at one end to add resistance; body weight and level of resistance make the carriage harder or easier to move in a variety of positions.

Its real beauty is that it is so versatile; exercises can be done lying on your back, on your front, side lying, sitting, kneeling and standing.   The range of exercises possible makes the reformer an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced practitioners.   It complements your mat work out perfectly too – building flexibility and strength.  The instability of the moving carriage is a great way to increase core strength and balance.

So, why not give it a try?  I forgot to mention it’s also great fun!!!   Look out for the schedule in next terms timetable.

PS – wishing Emily lots of luck as she embarks on her reformer training.   Both Emily and Jeannie will be available for Reformer classes and pilates personal training using the reformer and our full range of studio equipment.

In this month’s TalkBack, the magazine issued by BackCare – The Charity of Healthier Backs – they discuss the benefits of how pilates can alleviate back pain.  Interestingly, they do not focus on just the huge physical benefits of pilates such as improving core strength, stability and flexibility but also points out how pilates improves body awareness.  With body awareness, we do become more aware of how we hold tension and how this tension affects our mood, posture, alignment and pain levels.  We are a great believer in this approach at Creattiva Pilates.  Jeannie is also a member of BackCare – working to promote the Healthy Backs and Back4Good Campaign.  Please feel free to contact her for more details or to discuss how pilates could be of help to you.

We are seeking inspirational teachers to join our team.  We currently have opportunities for an  evening matwork teacher, evening private tuition (mat or equipment based) and reformer qualified teachers.   Body Control, Polestar or Stott qualified teachers preferred.  Please call or email Jeannie if you are interested or know of any teachers in the Esher area.

To read all the latest news and information from Creattiva Pilates, read our newsletter and you can sign up to receive the monthly email (follow the link and click ‘subscribe to list’ to receive the monthly newsletter).

We look forward to seeing you at the studio this term!

With an increased demand for classes at Creattiva Pilates’ in January, it seems clear to us that health and fitness is definitely a priority for most.  Make yours or a loved one’s New Years Resolution to be healthier and happier stick in 2012 by signing up for one of our many classes in the new winter timetable* starting on Janury 9th.  Or why not give as a New Year’s present, gift vouchers available all year round not just for Christmas!

Do not delay in booking up for the new term, be more likely to ensure your space on your chosen days!  Either sign up at the studio in person or contact us via phone or email. The winter term has more to offer than ever, contact us for info on our new Rehab Clinics and Pilates Excel Clinic! Please also be aware of our Pilates Personal Training Schedule for those that are interested in booking private tuition for Pilates Mat or Equipment in the New Year.

*Subject to availability.