What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
I have never done Pilates before, what class should I attend?
Look out for a Beginners class, or book a one-to-one class. Contact me for availability or go to turningtidepilates.com or pilatesevolved.co.uk.
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General/Improvers level classes require some experience. Intermediate/Advanced classes require experience and are not suitable for those recovering from injuries. Ask me if you have any queries.
Are classes online or in person?
I teach classes in person and live online via Zoom.
I teach classes in person in Henfield, West Sussex and Uckfield and Brighton & Hove, East Sussex.
Online classes can be accessed from anywhere as long as you have a device with a camera and an internet connection.
See my class schedule for which classes are in person and which are online on my Classes page.
What can I expect from face-to-face classes that are held in a studio?
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When you arrive you will be welcomed by either myself or another member of the team. We will show you the facilities and answer any questions you may have.
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Please arrive 5 minutes before the start time of your class.
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For Vida Active Club CIC classes you can bring your own Pilates or yoga mat. However, there are mats at the studio you can use if you do not have your own. Mats will be provided at Turning Tide Pilates and Pilates Evolved.
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I will check-in with all class attendees at the beginning of class about any injuries or health conditions, or you can speak to me privately beforehand if you arrive a few minutes earlier.
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Classes will always include a warm-up, movement exercises and a cool down. Options and modifications will be given as appropriate.
What do I need in order to attend an online class?
You will need:
A device (laptop, tablet, smartphone) with an in-built camera
To download the free Zoom app
A mat/rug/blanket/towel to lie on
A room with enough space to move safely and freely on your mat
A small cushion or folded towel for under your head
To log in to the Zoom meeting room a few minutes before the class is due to start.
What should I wear?
Wear clothes that you can move in without restriction. In the cooler months it’s a good idea to wear layers of clothing so that you take off layers as you start to warm up. In the hotter months make sure you have a bottle of water with you, and if possible when attending online, ventilate the room you are in. In Pilates we work in bare feet or socks. If you wear socks, I recommend wearing Pilates or yoga socks with grips on the bottom to avoid slipping.
Do I need any special equipment?
For online classes you may sometimes be asked to use 'props' as part of the class, such as weights or resistance bands. Don't worry if you don't have these there are usually some household alternatives such as tins of beans for weights!
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Props will be provided when attending face-to-face classes in person at a studio.
I have an injury or health condition, can I still attend Pilates?
Pilates can be very beneficial for recovery from injury, or for relief from many physical conditions. However, this is something that should be discussed on a case-by-case basis and you may need clearance from your doctor before starting Pilates or any other exercise regime. Prior to attending a class you will be asked to complete a health questionnaire where you can highlight any issues that the studio or I should be aware of. If you have any queries please ask your GP in the first instance, or Contact Me.
What is the difference between Pilates & Yoga?
The following two articles discuss interesting and informative comparisons between Pilates and yoga.
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"Yoga uses the body to connect with the mind and the inner self, while pilates uses mindfulness to connect to the inner workings of the body."
The Guardian, December 2018 (opens in new window)
"One is a holistic discipline originating from ancient India, the other a specific physical system devised by a German anatomist in the early 20th century, but there’s much cross-over..."
