Step #1: First 1:1 Pilates Session
On this page...
About Your Pilates Lesson...
When you have your first lesson, it's more for the teacher to see what your body is like, what it's willing to do and what exercises you would not do.
...it's about creating the best programme for you!
The most important aspect of the First Lesson is deciding whether Pilates really is for you. To help us plan your First Lesson, please fill in the Health Screening Questionnaire honestly and with as much details that you can.
Part of your First Lessons is about deciding whether you want:
- Ongoing One on One Sessions led by your teacher.
- Working towards “Your time Pilates” – that’s independent personal practice in the studio.
Will we do Reformer Pilates?
The short answer is “yes”. We will use other pieces of apparatus to help you build up (or challenge) your Reformer and Mat work.
We have: Reformers, Mat with Handles and Strap, Cadillac, Tower, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, Wunda Chair, Stability Chair, Baby Chair, Spine Correctors, Baby Barrel, Foot Corrector, Toe Gizmo, Breath 0 Cizer, Magic Circle…
… and non Pilates apparatus: Foam Rollers, Massage Balls, Therabands, Physio Balls and TRX suspension training system (Total Resistance Exercises).
Your Personal Space & Touch...
Tactile cues are an essential part of learning Pilates – especially whilst starting off. Your teacher will ALWAYS ask permission before touching you. Feel free to say “no” should you wish.
Booking your First Lesson
Booking is online. It saves us playing phone tag and that circular conversation about availability.
When I came, I felt really bloated, but now, after my first lesson, I feel like I've had an internal massage! It's amazing.
Getting there, parking & reminders
Getting to Birmingham Pilates
Digbeth is getting it’s much needed upgrade. The downside of that are the roadworks! Use the map to help you – save it to your phone and I’d suggest using it over GPS.
Parking
Method One: Pay by Card
- Easy to use machine
- Up to one hour: £1.20
- Up to two hours: £2.10
Method One: Pay by Card
"Zellig" is the location listed on the app
Appointment Confirmation & Reminders
- Immediate confirmation email on booking
- Text reminder 48 hours before your First Lesson
- Rescheduling: 24 hrs policy applies
- I'll contact you before your appointment by phone or text
First Session: come early
Give yourself plenty of time to arrive. If you’re early, ask the receptionist to call and we’ll get you up to the studio early. We can either get started early, or you can sit on our sofa and watch someone else’s session for a while.
A photo guide to the Zellig
If you don’t know The Custard Factory or Zellig, these photos might help you orientate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most most people can start on Reformer. If the Basic Reformer exercises are unsuitable for you then we can start off addressing your specific needs on Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Barrels or small apparatus…
You can find current prices on the Booking Page (here)
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As soon as you start, you’ll realise that you are in control at all times.
That’s a part of what Pilates is all about: control.
In fact, that is what Joe Pilates called his exercise system: “Contrology”.
Please check out our info & booking page for current class timings and prices.
Sorry, I’m afraid not.
Yes, there is a shower room on the First Floor with two separate, lockable cubicles.
Close fitting and stretchy are best so that I can see clearly how your body, your spine especially, is moving.
No, Pilates is done without shoes.
Some people prefer not to take off their socks. Be aware that some exercise require standing or pushing off a surface. So, the if you do really want to wear socks, make sure that they are specially made for Pilates (yes, they exist :-)) with sticky pads on the soles to improve grip.
As long as you are not absolutely stuffed – a light meal isn’t usually a problem – unless you suffer from gastric problems.
You can use the confirmation email to reschedule up to 24 hours before your lesson. After that, you’ll have to call me to ask me if I would reschedule for you. Repeated rescheduling can result in the cancellation of your booking.
And it’s not all about exercise he was promoting physical and spiritual (not religious) health.
The idea is to create change. And creating change takes effort. Think of taking and “internal shower” rather than total exhaustion – no-one can move properly if you continue to total exhaustion, but it is supposed to be work.
A little bit frequently goes much further than total exhaustion infrequently.
