Pilates classes in South Africa: Everything you need to know

Pilates, a low-impact exercise focusing on core strength, flexibility, and mindful movement, has become increasingly popular in South Africa.

Joseph Pilates developed Pilates in the early 20th century. It emphasises controlled movements, breathing awareness, as well as spine and pelvis alignment. You can do Pilates exercises on a mat or with equipment like a Reformer.

 
Whether you want to start your fitness journey or are more experienced and looking to level up, this guide caters to all levels of interest and experience in Pilates classes in South Africa. We spoke to Melissa Clarke and Verna Young, our Pilates experts, to learn more about Pilates and share everything you need to know about it.

Is Pilates worth doing?

Absolutely! This low-impact workout offers a host of benefits.

• It will increase your core control.
• It will help prevent injuries
• It will help improve your coordination and circulation
• It enhances your mobility and stamina
• Good postural conditioning
• Complements any sport training platform

What do you do in Pilates classes?

Pilates encompasses a range of full-body exercises that create muscular exertion. Our Pilates Mat and Reformer classes at Virgin Active will highlight movements with controlled breathing, muscle engagement, and a focus on tone and stability while having fun at the same time.

What should I wear to Pilates classes?

It is best to wear comfortable clothing that lets you move easily. For Pilates Reformer, it is advised to wear grip socks. Also, remember to bring a sweat towel and water.

What should I expect at my first Pilates class?

Get ready for fun! Your first Pilates class is all about discovering what your body can do. The most important thing is to enjoy the experience and give it your best effort.

What is the average cost of a Pilates class?

Pilates Mat and Reformer classes at private boutique studios could be quite costly. However, all classes at Virgin Active, including the Pilates Mat and Reformer classes, are included in the fees, making it a cost-effective option for your fitness journey.

What are the best Pilates classes for beginners?

All classes in Virgin Active’s Pilates offering will accommodate members of all fitness levels. Our talented Pilates instructors are trained to accommodate all members walking into the Virgin studio spaces.

What are the best Pilates exercises for beginners?

The most important focus for a beginner is creating a sense of awareness around breathing. Our Pilates instructors will carefully guide all members through breathing awareness in all classes.

How many times a week should you do Pilates? Should I do Pilates once a week?

Because Virgin Active offers four different classes in Reformer Pilates, it makes it easy to do Pilates 3-5 times a week.

• Reformer Foundation: This is where you enter the world of Reformer Pilates, learn how to use the machine, and begin exercises to help build your flexibility and strength, which focuses on mastering the fundamental principles of Pilates.
• Reformer Align: This Pilates class is methodical and precise. We recommend taking a slower approach to your practice with longer poses, which is highly beneficial for core strength.
• Reformer Athletics: This class includes high-intensity interval training (HIIT) components to provide a quick-paced, high-intensity workout that targets the entire body.
• Reformer Recovery: This gentle and nourishing workout can help boost circulation without being too strenuous on the body. It’s a place to soften, unwind, and let go.

Why should someone choose Virgin Active for their Pilates classes?

Our Pilates Mat and Reformer classes are led by skilled instructors who create fun, creative classes to keep the members engaged. Our facilities are world-class, and the offerings on our timetable are aligned with Virgin Active’s Global proposition.

Are private sessions worth it?

At Virgin Active, our instructors are so well-trained that they can effectively guide a group of people together, ensuring each member feels secure and confident in their Pilates practice.

Is Pilates good for weight loss?

Extensive studies have shown that Pilates effectively reduces body weight and assists in postural awareness. Like all exercise classes, it would be more effective with a healthy diet.

What are the best Pilates exercises for weight loss?

All Pilates exercises will assist you in your weight loss journey.

Can Pilates reduce tummy fat?

Pilates can assist by targeting the core, which can help strengthen and tone the abdominals.

What are the best Pilates exercises for a firm stomach?

Looking to sculpt a strong and defined midsection? Pilates is the perfect exercise method for you. Our class is entirely dedicated to strengthening your core muscles. Exercises like the Teaser, Hundreds, and Plank are foundational movements that will help you achieve a firmer, more toned stomach.

Understanding the Exercises:

• Teaser: This dynamic exercise involves lifting your legs and upper body simultaneously, creating a V-shape. It challenges your entire core, improving balance and coordination while toning your abdominal muscles.
• Hundreds: This exercise focuses on deep abdominal engagement and breath control. By performing small arm and leg movements while lying on your back, you’ll strengthen your core and improve stamina.
• Plank: A classic core exercise that targets the entire core, including the abs, back, and shoulders. Holding a plank improves stability, posture, and overall body strength.

Is Pilates more challenging than Yoga?

Pilates and Yoga are very different. Pilates is a more intense workout that produces physical results quickly, focusing on strength, flexibility, and coordination. Yoga, on the other hand, is more about flexibility, balance and relaxation. The choice between the two comes down to what you wish to get out of your class and the methods the instructor takes to get you there.

What’s better, Yoga or Pilates?

Like Yoga, Pilates is a class that focuses on the mind-body connection. It depends on the member’s needs. Very often, members choose to do both for their unique benefits.

What are the ten basic Pilates exercises?

• Hundreds
• Roll up
• Swimming
• Spine stretch
• Roll over
• Rolling like a ball
• Shoulder bridge
• Side kick
• Double leg stretch
• Swan dive

What Pilates exercises are best to help with back pain?

This would also depend on each member and their specific needs. Note that the exercises below are a guide and suggestion:

• Pelvic curl
• Dead Bug
• Bridge
• Toe taps (from tabletop)
• Swan
• Bird-dog
• Side lying series (clam)
• Figure Four

Do you recommend watching any online Pilates classes?

In-person classes are always the best way to have a unique experience with Virgin Active. Virgin currently has some online classes that are viewable via the Virgin Active App.

Can I do Pilates exercises at home?

Pilates can be done anywhere, anytime and any place. At Virgin Active, we encourage our Group Exercise Pilates and Reformer classes to be held by one of our qualified Pilates teachers. This is a space to connect, encourage, and build a Pilates tribe. Once a member gets to train in a group space with like-minded members, they will want to come back for more.

Pilates is a versatile and effective form of exercise that can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels.

There is something for everyone, with various classes available in South Africa, from mat and Reformer Pilates to clinical and online options. Adding Pilates to your fitness routine can improve your core strength, flexibility, posture and overall well-being. So why wait?

Find a Pilates class near you and start your journey to a healthier, stronger body today. Join a Virgin Active gym today and start enjoying the benefits of Pilates.it a cost-effective option for your fitness journey.

What are the best Pilates classes for beginners?

All classes in Virgin Active’s Pilates offering will accommodate members of all fitness levels. Our talented Pilates instructors are trained to accommodate all members walking into the Virgin studio spaces.

What are the best Pilates exercises for beginners?

The most important focus for a beginner is creating a sense of awareness around breathing. Our Pilates instructors will carefully guide all members through breathing awareness in all classes.

How many times a week should you do Pilates? Should I do Pilates once a week?

Because Virgin Active offers four different classes in Reformer Pilates, it makes it easy to do Pilates 3-5 times a week.

• Reformer Foundation: This is where you enter the world of Reformer Pilates, learn how to use the machine, and begin exercises to help build your flexibility and strength, which focuses on mastering the fundamental principles of Pilates.
• Reformer Align: This Pilates class is methodical and precise. We recommend taking a slower approach to your practice with longer poses, which is highly beneficial for core strength.
• Reformer Athletics: This class includes high-intensity interval training (HIIT) components to provide a quick-paced, high-intensity workout that targets the entire body.
• Reformer Recovery: This gentle and nourishing workout can help boost circulation without being too strenuous on the body. It’s a place to soften, unwind, and let go.

Why should someone choose Virgin Active for their Pilates classes?

Our Pilates Mat and Reformer classes are led by skilled instructors who create fun, creative classes to keep the members engaged. Our facilities are world-class, and the offerings on our timetable are aligned with Virgin Active’s Global proposition.

Are private sessions worth it?

At Virgin Active, our instructors are so well-trained that they can effectively guide a group of people together, ensuring each member feels secure and confident in their Pilates practice.

Is Pilates good for weight loss?

Extensive studies have shown that Pilates effectively reduces body weight and assists in postural awareness. Like all exercise classes, it would be more effective with a healthy diet.

What are the best Pilates exercises for weight loss?

All Pilates exercises will assist you in your weight loss journey.

Can Pilates reduce tummy fat?

Pilates can assist by targeting the core, which can help strengthen and tone the abdominals.

What are the best Pilates exercises for a firm stomach?

Looking to sculpt a strong and defined midsection? Pilates is the perfect exercise method for you. Our class is entirely dedicated to strengthening your core muscles. Exercises like the Teaser, Hundreds, and Plank are foundational movements that will help you achieve a firmer, more toned stomach.