What is Pilates?

Pilates is a method of exercise and physical conditioning designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body. Pilates strengthens all the muscle groups, but particularly the deep “core muscles” which are so important to both our posture and our overall health and well being.

Practiced faithfully, Pilates yields numerous benefits. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing is a primary focus. Strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles, coordination - both muscular and mental, are key components in an effective Pilates program. Posture, balance, and core strength are all dramatically improved. Bone density and joint health improve, and many experience positive body awareness for the first time in their lives.

Pilates teaches balance and control of the body, and that capacity often spills over into other areas of your life.

Is it a fad?

Pilates takes its name from Joseph Pilates, a German-born emigré to Britain and then America, who devised it in the early 1900s. Long popular among dancers, gymnasts and professional actors, Pilates has now been discovered by a wider public - from those who want a stronger back or flatter stomach to those with specific injuries or medical problems that Pilates can help; or else, simply those who want to get fit or de-stress.

Indeed, physiotherapists, osteopaths, chiropractors and doctors now recommend Pilates as one of the safest and most effective forms of exercise available.

The results you see from Pilates won’t just remain in the studio. You will learn to incorporate what you learn in your Pilates sessions into your daily lives – how you stand and walk, how you sit at the computer or drive a car, as well as more physical activities such as football, skiing, tennis, running, cycling, hiking, dancing or swimming.

Pilates is for everyone interested in improving the way they look, feel and move. Our students range in age from 12-77 and vary from those whose work demands too much sitting; to those who sit too little. We work with athletes, busy mums, stressed out executives with bad backs, people with acute injuries and chronic pain, and expectant mothers. Pilates brings benefits to those who have never exercised before as well as to those who always have and always will.

 

What Clients Say

Pilates is by far the best exercise I have ever done. For several years I suffered back ache and through working on my core stability, not only have I strengthened my back, relieving the pain, I have also improved my posture greatly, and as a result I look two dress sizes smaller and much more toned. Thanks for all the encouragement and humour you bring to my workout. It's always a pleasure.

Audrey Giles, Cobham

The teachers have a fantastic ability to explain every movement in such detail that I know I’m exercising to my full potential. I get individual attention when I need it, as does everyone in the class, and best of all we have fun! I have seen a big difference in my body and I find myself motivated to improve my technique with each session. This is one exercise routine I won’t be giving up!

Vanessa Corrigan, Oxshott

Pilates really has transformed my life. I feel stronger, have better posture and better tone. Donna is an excellent teacher who takes the time to explain everything very clearly and makes Pilates thoroughly enjoyable - I wouldn't go anywhere else!

Marie Claire Lakin, Cobham

I love my new found Pilates posture....I was complimented for being able (at my age) to stand up from a sofa on stage without using my hands....My spare tyre is diminishing!...I can now walk up stairs without hanging on to the bannister! My wrists are no longer in agony when I do the 'cat'!

Geraldine Guthrie, East Horsley

I just wanted to send you a message as I am so pleased. I walked 23 miles on Sunday with no other training than your wonderful pilates classes. It is a great personal achievement for me, I can’t believe I did it and two days later I have very little stiffness.Thanks!

Gill Bowerman, Cobham

I had the most wonderful time as well as giving my abs the workout of their lives! The whole atmosphere at the villa is one of tranquility and calm plus it has 5 star food. It was so refreshing to get away from my busy life and spend quality time laughing and being looked after - I booked my place on the next retreat before this one was even over!

Jenny Saunders, Cobham

I just wanted to thank you for yesterday. After the class it was the first time after my injury that I could go down the stairs with no pain. Also this morning for the first time I had no pain when I got out of bed. This is the second time you're treating me (my back pain and now my knee) and reducing my constant pain and for that I'm immensely grateful. Tomorrow my doctor is going to look at the MRI and give his prognosis. I'm quite positive and think with the right movements (with your help) I'll recover soon. Million thanks again.

Rozita Pourtaheri, Epsom

Being passionate about running and leading a very hectic life as a PR Manager and a hands-on-mum of 2, I discovered a place where I can focus on what I had been ignoring for a while.....me and my body! Never before have I learnt so much about my body, my capabilities and my inner strength as when I was introduced to Cobham Pilates. The attention to detail and personal approach by the teachers is unheard of and I feel 'on top of the world' after every session.'

Petra van Meeuwen Cobham

Having battled through a difficult first pregnancy plagued with terrible back and pelvic pain I decided to try Pilates during my second pregnancy. The difference has been unbelievable. I have had a wonderfully easy and pain free pregnancy and have remained strong and supple. Thanks to Pilates I have been able to really enjoy being pregnant this time around!

Debbie Smith, Cobham

Regardless of how I feel when I arrive at my Monday morning matclass, I leave feeling a million dollars! The one on one attention is superb and there is a constant banter to keep a smile on your face at the most challenging of times and believe me there are lots of those! Not only will you feel great after each class but the results are fabulous! I am eternally grateful! Thank you Cobham Pilates.

Marcella Maytum, Bookham

As an experienced traveler and health retreat enthusiast, I find Cobham Pilates to be quite the gem. With elite pilates instructors, customized sessions, a warm and friendly staff, and an uplifting philosophy that incorporates, mind, body, soul, Cobham Pilates is more life partner than fitness centre. It's light, airy and modern environment make me feel I am back home in Los Angeles. Two thumbs up!

Maryna Hrushetska, aka Ms. Cosmopolite, Los Angeles, USA

Your studio is truly unique in it's ability to be so warm and welcoming while providing the BEST PILATES INSTRUCTION! Your instructors understand the essence of pilates and so the skill level is so high. Yet, you've managed to find some of the lovliest people in the world. You and your studio are truly missed. I have not found anything even close to it in Chicago or New Hampshire. You and your studio are a English treasure.

Lisa Dufour, New Hampshire, USA, formerly of Cobham

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