Mixed ability Pilates

Join our mixed-ability group sessions and enjoy exercises tailored to all fitness levels.

Welcome to our Pilates community

Mixed ability mat Pilates classes are designed for all levels to build strength and flexibility using the Pilates method, connected to the breath and moving from a strong centre.

I aim for my sessions to always be welcoming, and inclusive. I have been running sessions now in Bristol for a year and have watched our community grow. Those who attend classes are also friendly and kind to others in the group and there is a supportive atmosphere. Pilates offers us not just health & wellbeing through mindful movement it also offers us community too.

a person standing on a yoga mat on the floor

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Is it just me and the mat?

Classes focus on mindful movement, connection to the breath, going at a steady pace and finding our movement flow as we build strength and flexibility..

These sessions ( as the name suggests ) are mixed level with modifications and progressions given. We start with a gentle warm up, focusing our bodies and minds into the space, and easing our way in. We then have our more challenging mid section where we work at a steady pace through different exercises from the repertoire in different planes of movement. We then move into a slower pace as go into our cool down with some stretches and some more breath work connecting to the parasympathetic nervous system so you leave feeling calmer, and lighter, with a sense of release through the body and mind, and maybe a bit taller too!

Yes sometimes, we also sometimes use small equipment such as the Pilates mini ball, mini weights, and resistance bands.

Using props within Pilates sessions can add extra challenge into the movements, building strength and encouraging greater stretch within a range. Props can also provide support, and guidance during movement, as well providing variety challenging our minds as well as our bodies. Pilates has been evidences to improve our brain health too!

Mat work is a key part of the Pilates system and was the first full repertoire that Joseph Pilates came up with on his mission for us all to live long healthier lives full of energy and zest.

If you are already doing reformer that's great, but add in mat work and this will challenge you in a very different way. Mat work is also super inclusive and my hope is that you take what you learn in classes and develop your own practice at home, just you and the mat.

What to Expect

woman in yellow pants lying on purple textile

I now hold 3 Mixed ability sessions a week

Mixed abiltiy Pilates now happens 3 times a week at different locations and times to suit your routine.

Tuesdays - 6 pm Avonmouth Community Centre, Avonmouth
Thursdays - 9.15 am Horfield Quaker Meeting House, Bishopston
Thursdays - 7 pm Shirehampton Public Hall, Shirehampton

For more information on each of the venues click here.

I offer a choice of payment options, from drop-ins to pass bundles. To purchase pass bundles select 1 start date, and the remaining passes will stay on your account. Mixed ability passes can be used at any of the above venues. You also have the option to transfer your ticket once you have created an account.

FAQs

Who can join?

Anyone! Our mixed ability classes welcome all fitness levels.

What should I bring?

Bring a yoga mat, comfortable clothes, and water to stay hydrated.

If you're a new joiner and don't yet have a yoga mat, please let me know and I will bring a spare.

You may also wish to bring a small towel which can be placed under sensitive areas such as hips, and tailbone.

How intense are classes?

Mixed ability classes are as the name suggests open to all, from beginner to intermediate. I teach Pilates with a layered approach, this means I demonstrate a base level/beginner movement and then progressively work in more challenges. If Mixed ability isn't for you I also offer Gentle and Older adult sessions.

No prior Pilates experience is necessary to join our sessions. I guide you through the movements with visual, verbal and sometimes hands on adjustments if needed.