“Caroline’s philosophy is that Pilates is for everyone no matter what level you are, there is always more to learn, refine and understand.”
One of my goals this year is to take up Pilates again. I throughly enjoyed the practice of Pilates throughout my second pregnancy and found it really helped to centre my thoughts, as well as zone in on customisable postures and positions to help alleviate the lower back pain I was experiencing.
Caroline kindly offered to answer some of my questions I had about Pilates so I could deepen my understanding and share this with others who want to expand their knowledge and explore more about this movement based therapy.
It is clear to see from your website and online sources that you are a passionate teacher.
You have also learnt your skills from some of the best instructors in the world. What are the attributes that make a good Pilates teacher?
For me it is about continuous learning and personal development. Attending courses, classes, learning from new research developments and from other practitioners such as physios and osteopaths.
Being open to change and trying new ideas and sequences that you can apply in class can really help and support a variety of body types. Your own practice is important too, so allocating time on a weekly basis to try new exercises and learn how that feels in your own body is a great way to learn.
The Pilates community is fantastic - teachers are always introducing new ideas so it is about keeping up with that and choosing the most appropriate exercises for your specific clients and their needs. Often lesson plans will have to change at the last minute depending on who comes through the door so being adaptable and flexible is key. Adding elements of fun and energy with a good pace is also very important for engagement and focus.
Pilates can sometimes become a bit too clinical so it’s about enjoying the exercises with lots of variety.
What are the key benefits of Pilates.
As a beginner what can one expect to achieve?
Pilates is a highly effective movement based therapy that enhances the mind and body togetherness. Pilates sets your body up for success in whatever it does. Whether you’re training, toning or recovering, you’ll do it better, stronger and more efficiently.
Pilates will:
Strengthen and lengthen the entire body.
Improve core strength and flexibility.
Improve coordination and balance.
Relax the mind and body.
Ease back pain.
Compliment your existing exercise regime.
How long does it take for one to notice any benefits?
You can feel the benefits immediately after your first session! Clients often tell me they feel more energised and at ease through the body.
In terms of your strength and flexibility, you’ll notice these changes between 5-10 sessions. You’ll be able to move much more freely with more confidence making everyday activities more enjoyable with less risk of injury and pain.
What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
Pilates is a physical system devised by a German anatomist (Joseph Pilates) in the early 20th century for the purpose of rehabilitation. Some of the first people treated by Pilates were soldiers returning from war and dancers (to strengthen their bodies and heal their aches and pains).
Yoga is a holistic discipline originating from ancient India which involves mental, physical and spiritual practices. However, there is a lot of cross-over and many interpretations of both practices, so there is often confusion between the two.
Both Yoga and Pilates have fantastic health benefits, from boosting mental well-being to developing strength, flexibility and control.
I feel the biggest difference is that Pilates focuses primarily on joint mobility particularly the health of the spine and Yoga has more emphasis on the spiritual side. Meditation is not part of Pilates.
The focus is on very specific targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility with a particular focus on core.
Yoga is a health management system that uses breath, movement and meditation to unite the mind, body and spirit.
Both Pilates and Yoga classes can range from being gentle and nourishing to dynamic and sweaty.
When planning a class my aims and objectives centre around moving as many joints as possible in a variety of ways whilst building strength and awareness throughout the body. This helps to keep the entire body functioning it’s best. In Pilates we also consider the clients specific needs, for example helping them recover from injury or using it to compliment another sport such as running.
What does pre natal Pilates involve?
Pilates classes will still include the variety of joint movements but are less intense than a standard class. The classes are planned by a fully qualified Prenatal Pilates Instructor and are structured around the changing requirements of a developing pregnancy. This will provide an effective workout from the first trimester through to full term, all while staying completely safe for mother and baby.
Pilates could help prevent aches and pains while you’re expecting. The exercises help to strengthen and stretch your core muscles and could help your body cope with carrying the extra weight of your growing baby, as well as preparing you for childbirth and recovery afterwards. Pilates often focusses on strengthening your pelvic floor, which is important for labour and recovery after birth.
When choosing a Prenatal or Postnatal class, make sure the teacher is qualified and tell them how many weeks pregnant you are. A teacher who is qualified to work with pregnant women should be able to adapt the exercises to suit your changing body at each stage of your pregnancy.
How do you incorporate wellbeing rituals into your daily routine to promote a sense of balance?
I love a morning routine! My clients are early risers so I try and wake up by 6am or 5am to give myself time before the day begins. At the moment I start the day with 20minutes Vedic Meditation which I recently learnt how to do through the London Meditation Centre. This is followed by a warm herbal tea and 20 minutes of journal writing. I write down any thoughts that come to mind and also include three things I am grateful for. This often leads to a ‘to-do’ list for the day but I find it really helps to focus me for the day ahead.
Throughout the day I try and give myself little breaks between classes to take a moment and breathe. At around 5pm I meditate again for 20 minutes. This reflection time gives me a wonderful sense of calm and reenergises me for the last part of the day. I then finish the day with candles and nourishing dinners. And when it is time to sleep I leave my phone in the other room – easily said than done, however I’m determined to persevere this year. I’m usually in bed by 9.30pm to read and get a good sleep. I have always valued sleep so for me it’s important to wind down the right way.
What do you look for when investing in skin and body care?
Last year I decided to move towards chemical-free brands and only buy natural and organic products. I’m more interested in the story of the brand especially their eco and sustainability values.
One of my favourite brands is By Sarah London @bysarahlondon who only use natural ingredients.
I have been using their green clay face cleanser and organic facial oil for a year now. They are wonderful products full of love and care.
What is the best piece of beauty advice you’ve been given?
To take a 360 approach to beauty. Get plenty of sleep, nourish from the inside with fresh foods, and minimise stress throughout your days. Enjoy life, get fresh air and exercise and laugh often!
About Caroline
During her career as a school teacher, Caroline found that her strength and health began to suffer and often caused back pain. She decided to turn to Pilates and never looked back.
She felt stronger, leaner and more mindfully focused than ever before.
The transformation was simply magical, so she decided to combine her love for teaching with her enthusiasm for Pilates and qualify as a Pilates instructor at the highly respected ‘Body Control Pilates’ organisation in London.
Caroline is fully qualified in Mat, Reformer and Pregnancy Pilates. She is passionate about how Pilates has the ability to change bodies, making them stronger, more flexible, leaner and more functional.
You can attend Caroline’s classes in her new boutique studio set on a beautiful lane in Belsize Park, London.
They have daily classes of Reformer and Mat Pilates, including pre & postnatal sessions.
Visit www.caropilates.com Connect with Caroline @caropilateslondon
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