Pilates was originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s as a system of exercises designed for dancers. Pilates is physically demanding and not suitable for those with low back pain, neck pain or other joint injuries.

Therefore, some Australian physiotherapists (APPI) took the original exercises and modified them to become a safe and effective way of exercising for people with injury, as well as people who are beginners and simply wish to learn Pilates in a safe and correct manner.  The exercises are progressive and incorporate precise movements and a focused mind to balance the body in strength, flexibility and control. No muscle group is ever over-trained as patients work through the selection of Pilates movements that transform the way the body looks, feels and performs – allowing greater enjoyment and ease of daily activities and sports with reduced chance of injury.

Please note that before commencing our Beginners class you will be required to attend an Introduction to Pilates.

Class Information

Duration: 1 hour

Cost: £12 per class *

Timetables:  Crowborough / Seaford 

* Please note, classes must be booked in blocks of 6.

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Suitable for

Our Modified Beginners class is suitable for those who want to work at their own pace in a gentle, relaxed and friendly class.  Exercises can be modified to accommodate limitations due to chronic low back pain, arthritis, osteoporosis, or any other restrictions.
This class is performed at a slower pace and can help to improve and optimise posture and gait, is gentle on vulnerable joints and focuses on strengthening the deep abdominal muscles, known as the core muscles, restoring muscle length, improving flexibility and balance giving confidence for everyday activities. 

Specially formulated for those who would like to exercise, but feel intimidated by the pace and demands of other Pilates classes.  The class aims to get all participants to reach an Intermediate level of Pilates.

Please note that before commencing our Beginners class you will be required to attend an Introduction to Pilates.

Introduction to Pilates

This class includes completion of a Pilates Registration form which gives us brief details of your current and past medical history to ensure you are suitable for the class. If, on the rare occasion, you are not suitable for the Pilates class we may be able to offer you an alternative class at Horder Healthcare. 

We will then cover the 5 key elements of Pilates which are the foundations to your Pilates exercises. You will be given an information leaflet on the 5 key elements to practice at home. There's a video below that covers this topic.

It is important you are familiar with these elements before commencing your classes to get the most out of the exercises and to ensure you exercise safely and within your limits of discomfort.

Core principles of Pilates

  • Postural awareness – to reduce pain from poor postures;
  • Effective breathing - used to release excessive tension and rigidity in the body;
  • Deep abdominal and pelvic control - based on recent medical research, Pilates retrains the use of these muscles to prevent and rehabilitate LBP;
  • Concentration - helps to focus the mind on the body and the way it moves;
  • Movement co-ordination, flow, and stamina - to teach the body to move more freely and efficiently.

VIDEO 5 key elements of Pilates

Personal Exercise Therapy

Personal exercise therapy is a one to one session with fully individualised support from a qualified Exercise Rehabilitation Instructor.

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