THE FRAME OF MIND

What I’m learning about 1-2-1 Pilates

I’ve been going to Reformer Pilates regularly at Frame since 2019 (as much as Bojo would allow during the pandemic). I love it – I feel stronger, aligned, and I love to see the progress I make with each class. I always tell friends that Frame has repaired the damage school PE classes did to my relationship with exercise, and I think Pilates has been a big part of that. 

All in all, I didn’t think it could get much better than my group Reformer classes – so I was intrigued by the Pilates Playground at Frame Kings Cross. Here’s what I’ve learnt from a few sessions with the wonderful Peter Clerkin in the new space.  

Same same, but different (to Reformer)

When you first walk into the studio, you think it can’t possibly be the same as a Reformer class. I thought I was going to have to start again, and learn loads and loads of new techniques or moves. And while it is different, starting again wasn’t the case at all – it’s more like Reformer or mat Pilates is a great foundation, but the equipment in the Pilates Playground paired with the 1-2-1 support allows you to take the same principles to the next level. I’ve built on what I already know, but also been able to try new things that are not possible on the Reformer or without 1-2-1 coaching.

It’s not as scary as it sounds - or looks

Yes, the equipment does look a bit scary! But it’s not, at all. If you’ve done Reformer, you’ll have no trouble as long as you trust your body. If you haven’t done Reformer, you’ve got all the guidance you need with 1-2-1 attention to help you use the equipment without it being scary at all. During my sessions, I totally forgot about what the equipment looks like and was far more focused on what I was able to get my body to do. It’s totally worth the initial apprehension. 

1-2-1 attention is a game changer

As I said at the beginning, I thought it couldn’t get much better than Reformer classes – but 1-2-1 attention has really taken me to the next level. 

At the beginning of each session, Peter asked what my goals were for the class and then the session was entirely tailored around them. He recognised areas I was already stronger in, and ones which needed some more work and challenged me the right amount. 

I have very limited flexibility and my hamstrings are very tight, which I mentioned to Peter I wanted to work on as I find this limits my exercise. I hadn’t touched my toes since I was a teenager (and had given up hope of ever doing so again), but after my second tailored session with Peter, I touched them no problem – I couldn’t believe it! I really don’t think I’d have got to that without 1-2-1 coaching. I’ve found complimenting my usual Frame Reformer class schedule with 1-2-1 sessions at the Pilates Playground has worked really well. 

I still have a lot to learn when it comes to Pilates, but I am enjoying the journey and can’t wait for my next 1-2-1 session at the Pilates playground to learn some more.

Inspired to make a trip to the Playground?

You can book in for a FREE 1-2-1 Pilates consultation with one of our experts by emailing pt@moveyourframe.com more info HERE