{"id":139,"date":"2025-06-24T14:53:13","date_gmt":"2025-06-24T14:53:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/topmarkscms.co.uk\/millstream\/?page_id=139"},"modified":"2026-01-25T17:09:21","modified_gmt":"2026-01-25T17:09:21","slug":"frequently-asked-questions","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/topmarkscms.co.uk\/millstream\/pilates\/frequently-asked-questions\/","title":{"rendered":"Frequently Asked Questions"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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What is Pilates?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Pilates is an exercise system devised by Joseph Pilates to promote good alignment, breathing technique, balance, strength within the deep supporting muscles and flexibility. When taught correctly it enhances physical fitness, relaxes the mind, and reduces back pain and injury.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is a mat class?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Mat exercises are the traditional form of Pilates. Designed so that you can exercise anywhere (within reason!). Exercises will be performed from a laying down position (relaxation), on all fours, sitting and standing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What will classes be like?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Classes are an hour long. Within that hour we will work on releasing tension in the body and work our way through a variety of exercises ensuring we work on each joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As the course progresses we\u2019ll work towards more challenging exercises, depending on your body\u2019s mobility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Is it fun ?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Absolutely! That is a requirement in all Millstream Pilates classes!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The classes are limited to 12 people to ensure we work safely and you all gain the most out of the sessions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

There is a nice social scene across all the classes as a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Am I too young or old ?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You are never too young to start and never too old to begin! Clients currently range between 25-83! Older and younger are always welcome!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The exercises can be adapted depending on your fitness level and condition. If you\u2019re coming back from injury, in pain or have poor mobility, chair based exercises can give you just as good a work out for your particular needs<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re fit and active and looking to be challenged, there is always another exercise layer that can be applied<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I am in pain. Can I still start \/ continue with Pilates?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Generally Pilates exercises can help to alleviate pain as the muscles strengthen to support the joints. Especially back pain, as the lengthening of the spine takes pressure off discs and nerves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It is important that notify me of any old\/ongoing issues within your enrolment form and you discuss any changes and concerns on a class by class basis. Exercises can be adapted for you accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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I am pregnant. Can I still start \/ continue with Pilates?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Between week 8 and 14 you\u2019re not advised to exercise, unless it\u2019s agreed with your practitioner. If you\u2019re new to Pilates, I would recommend waiting until you\u2019ve reached week 14.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Body Control Pilates is wonderful for pre and post pregnancy, as it develops the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to support the baby, aid delivery and aid recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How do I know if the exercises will be right for me?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Taught properly, Pilates mat exercises can be both gentle and demanding. To begin with, you must ensure you have a properly qualified instructor who understands your requirements. All the exercises have modifications and levels, and a good instructor will ensure you are working at the right level for your ability. For some people it is more appropriate to begin with private tuition rather than joining a mat class. This can be discussed with Claire who will be happy to advise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What should I wear?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You need to wear comfortable exercise clothing that you can move easily in and allows me to see your spine. It doesn\u2019t have to be lycra! Socks are good, especially in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Please avoid dangly jewellery, jeans, shirts and belts\u2014they don\u2019t move very well!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A special note on wearing shorts without linings, you may want to wear lycra running shorts underneath, or you may reveal more than you would prefer to!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What should I bring?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Feel free to bring your own mat, however all equipment is provided so don\u2019t feel you need to rush out and buy one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Can I eat dinner before?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

You shouldn\u2019t take on any form of exercise within 2 hours of eating for both your sake and your neighbouring Pilates buddy!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Will Pilates help me lose weight?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

On it\u2019s own and once a week, no. On it\u2019s own and more than once a week (homework!) you\u2019ll see subtle changes in muscle tone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight has to be a combination of eating in moderation and a little cardiovascular work; walking, swimming, cycling or whatever floats your boat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How often do you recommend doing a class?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Once a week is great, but you need to work out every day if you want to see significant changes. It doesn\u2019t have to be in the classes through. We are committed to showing you how to work out effectively. Take that knowledge home and do a little, often and see how you can change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Can it help with my back problem?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Claire is a fully qualified Back4Good\u00ae practitioner \u2013 Back4Good\u00ae Practitioners are exercise specialists who are trained to help people with non-specific low back pain. Practitioners are already experienced Body Control Pilates teachers, having been certified by Europe\u2019s foremost Pilates organisation. They have additionally undertaken extensive training exclusively related to low back pain to become a Back4Good\u00ae Practitioner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is Pilates? Pilates is an exercise system devised by Joseph Pilates to promote good alignment, breathing technique, balance, strength within the deep supporting muscles and flexibility. When taught correctly it enhances physical fitness, relaxes the mind, and reduces back pain and injury. What is a mat class? Mat exercises…<\/p>\n

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