Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I've signed up online - now what?

A: Once we've received your completed payment (look out for your PayPal receipt) we will email you the link and password to the library of on-demand content. If you signed up for live classes, we'll sms you a reminder each week with the class schedule and a Zoom link to login.

Q: I've never done Pilates before. What level are your classes?

A: All classes are a mixed level, suitable for beginners through to more experienced participants. We frequently revisit the fundamental principles and focus on essential elements such as ideal breathing, posture and alignment and effectively engaging an abdominal contraction. As you progress, we expand the vocabulary of exercises and offer options to increase difficulty. To maintain interest and variety, props such as resistance bands and chi-balls are used from time to time.

Q: I'm pregnant - is it okay for me to continue doing Pilates?

A: The general medical advice regarding exercise in pregnancy is to continue with any existing moderate exercise routine you have established prior to falling pregnant. Many Pilates exercises can be modified to accommodate pregnancy for as long as the participant feels comfortable. After 20 weeks, the participant should avoid any exercises done lying on the back. For the experienced participant, Pilates can be suitable for those wishing to begin or maintain a low impact exercise program, focused on alignment and maintaining abdominal strength, specifically pelvic floor. While pregnancy is not the time to strive to increase your fitness or performance, Pilates can assist to maintain your fitness level and facilitate your post-natal reconditioning. Pregnant participants should consult with their doctor or medical practitioner prior to attending classes and should be aware that women's bodies respond to pregnancy, and exercise, differently. These recommendations are not a substitute for qualified medical advice. If you live in the Wollongong area, why not consider a private session where we will focus on specific exercises beneficial to pregnancy? Please contact us for further information.

Q: I have an injury and I was told I should do Pilates - can your classes help me?

A: Pilates is highly regarded for its effective rehabilitation results, specifically in regards lower back pain and issues. Practical Pilates classes are group fitness classes and designed to fulfill the needs of a generally health and fit participant. If you have a pre-existing injury or condition, you should consult with your medical practitioner regarding your participation in Practical Pilates group fitness classes. If you live in the Wollongong area, Natasha from Practical Pilates offers private sessions that can be catered towards your specific condition. Alternatively, many physiotherapy practices provide clinical Pilates sessions in a one-on-one or small group setting, which may be more suitable for your needs. While the instructor of Practical Pilates classes will endeavor to assist with your particular issues, the group setting class may not provide the specific programming or feedback you require. Participants in group classes should feel comfortable making modifications to exercises to suit their particular condition - many participants effectively use group classes as a way of supplementing their practice of Pilates after receiving consultation in a clinical setting.

Q: What measures do you have in place to respond to the COVID-19 risks?

A: Class sizes will be capped at the mandated number of participants or fewer. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mat or towel to lie on. Where classes are back to back, a five-minute interval will allow for additional cleaning. Participants are asked NOT to attend class if they are feeling unwell or are symptomatic. Online live classes will be available to allow participation by all. If you'd like to see a copy of our COVID-19 Safety Plan, please get in touch.

Q: How many times a week should I practice Pilates to see results?

A: Like any form of exercise, the more you practice, the sooner you see results. Fortunately, Pilates is a very efficient form of exercise. While Pilates can be hard work, you generally see results equivalent to the amount of effort you put in. Many people are attracted to Pilates by the reputation to make flat, sculpted abs. While Pilates is excellent for toning and building abdominal strength, the benefits many people are not aware of include a more aligned posture, relaxed breathing, a sense of relaxation and well being from classes, increased flexibility and range of motion and a great awareness of more subtle muscle groups such as your pelvic floor. If you are seeking weightloss, Pilates is an excellent accompaniment to your cardio routine, allowing you to minimize strain on your lower back and joints by keeping a strong core and maintaining awareness of correct alignment.

Q: Is Pilates like Yoga?

A: Pilates is similar to Yoga in that both are considered mind-body type methods of exercise. Both Pilates and Yoga emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment while Yoga traditionally spends more time in each pose (Asana).

Q: How many classes do I need to attend before I see results?

A: After the first three classes you should start to gain a better understanding of the exercises and the principles that make the exercises more effective. Progress after that will vary by individual, and also depend on how many times a week you are able to practice your Pilates exercises. By the time you have completed 8-10 classes you should feel a noticeable improvement in your strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, and body awareness.

Q: Do you offer Reformer or other equipment based classes?

A: Practical Pilates classes are Mat-based Pilates classes. All Practical Pilates classes are ran out of community venues and therefore mobile in nature, preventing the use of any heavy equipment.

Q: How do I register?

A: To register, book your class online and complete the registration link in your welcome email.

Q: How many participants are in each class?

A: Reasonable efforts are made to ensure the maximum class size is 8-10 participants. Most classes will be less. As Practical Pilates offers participants the ability to make up missed classes at different times or locations, class size may vary.

Q: What do I wear to Pilates? Do I have to wear tight or revealing clothing?

A: Dress appropriately for the season, in layers of comfortable clothing. We work in bare feet or socks. You may wish to wear clothing that allows the instructor to effectively assess your alignment or posture, which is why some Pilates participants choose close fitting attire. The majority participants attend in standard gym-wear.

Q: What do I need?

A: You will need a mat or towel to lie on. A small towel, to be rolled up and used for support under in some positions, can be helpful. You may also like some water to sip on. Light equipment such as resistance bands or chi-balls are alos used from time to time.