Have you been stalling, not quite ready to book into your first class? Have you been telling yourself you're not flexible enough, not strong enough, not fit enough, you don't have the 'right' clothes, you're too clumsy or even too old to come to reformer Pilates?
I can guarantee you that 90% of people who have signed up to do anything new for the first time have also had those thoughts. I know I have! So, let me answer some questions that many first-timers ask prior to taking the plunge + hopefully put your mind at ease so you feel confident that you 100% belong with us at Flow State Movement.
I'm a complete beginner - which class should I start with?
Let me first say - everyone is a beginner at some point and you are more than welcome here!!
I invite you to check out our blog here to read about the different types of sessions on offer at the studio and to get a feel for what may suit you best.
Generally, when it comes to group classes, I recommend people start with a Flow + Align class to get a feel for the various exercises we do in a reformer class. Flow + Align is a steady-paced class where we keep moves pretty simple and straightforward, focusing on breath, control and precision.
Once you have been well-acquainted with the reformer, you may want to try Flow + Restore where we explore greater ranges of motion to enhance your mobility + flexibility, improve balance and release tension in a calming, slow-paced class.
For a bit more of a sweaty challenge, Flow + Strength and Flow + Jump are fun, slightly unconventional ways to experience a Pilates class. These both offer more complex exercises, challenging strength, coordination + balance (and in the case of Flow + Jump, cardio endurance). I only recommend you attend these classes after coming to at least 4 Flow + Align classes to ensure you are confident with the apparatus.
If you're returning to exercise after an extended period, whether due to injury, inablity or other life circumstances, you may be best to start with Private 1:1 sessions. This means you will receive personalised 1:1 attention and we can determine the best approach going forward.
I'm not flexible - can I still come to a class?
YES! You definitely do not have to have any particular level of flexibility, strength or mobility to attend a class at our studio. In fact, I would say that the majority of clients at Flow State Movement began with limited strength, mobility or flexibility (in varying degrees) and everyone who has maintained a regular practice has found all of these areas have improved for them since they first walked into the studio.
Reformer Pilates can also help improve balance + coordination, enhance your mood + even lower your stress levels.
I have pre-existing physical conditions - can I still attend classes?
For the most part, yes! If you are recovering from an acute injury or a recent surgery, your appointed health professional (GP, surgeon, physio, et al) will need to give you clearance to return to group exercise classes.
If an injury or condition is ongoing and you don't require medical clearance, you are welcome to come to classes. Prior to attending your first session, you will receive a welcome email with a link to our liability waiver, where you can detail any physical issues that may impact your participation in certain exercises. This includes any movements that you have been directed not to do from a physician (no flexion, no rotation etc) which means the class can be slightly tweaked and you can receive modifications to keep you safe during the class.
It's important to remember that even though our classes are small, they are still a general, open-level class in a group setting.
If you're unsure if group classes are right for you, you can request a Private 1:1 session so we can workshop particular concerns around beginning a reformer Pilates practice and you can familiarise yourself with the apparatus.
How many classes should I do each week?
This is probably the most asked question and my answer is always the same - come to as many classes as you are able to. Will you notice the overall benefits sooner if you attend three classes compared to one class per week? Definitely. But if you can't realistically get to three classes a week, it's a moot point. Think of your reformer practice as exactly that - a practice.
Consistency is what matters - commit to what feels right for you and what you want to get out of your attendance.
The various passes and memberships allow you to fit in what works for you - once a week, twice a week or even three classes a week. You can check out our passes here including the Flow State Intro which gives brand new clients four classes to use across two weeks for just $60.
What should I wear?
As long as your clothes aren't too loose (we don't want them to get caught in any of the moving parts of the reformer!), I encourage you to wear whatever you feel comfortable exercising in.
Avoid wearing anything with zips, press stud buttons or other metal/plastic attachments that may damage the upholstered parts of the reformer (as well as being uncomfortable to lay or sit on).
I recommend wearing grip socks to keep your feet warm (especially in winter) and to help with stability when performing standing exercises.
A small range of MoveActive grip socks are available to purchase at the studio.
Do you have any other burning questions about the studio, our classes + passes, or about Pilates in general? Feel free to get in touch here
I look forward to welcoming you to your first class at Flow State Movement!
(Rosie will be glad to accept a cuddle, pat or treat upon your arrival too ☺️)
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