Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the more frequent questions that clients ask:
(Just click on each question to view the answer)
Q: What should I wear to a Pilates class?
A: Wear something loose and comfortable, that does not restrict your movements.
Pilates is done in bare feet.
Q: I’m a complete beginner; can I join a Pilates group class?
A: Absolutely. We run small classes, so everybody gets the attention they need and we tailor exercises to meet your needs. Clients with injuries are welcome and the Soo Pilates team is trained to give modifications where needed.
Q: What do I need to bring to a Pilates group class?
A: We provide mats and all small equipment for the Bethnal Green group classes. Please bring a mat to The City group class.
Q: Is exercise during pregnancy safe?
A: You should check with your doctor before doing any kind of exercise during pregnancy. However, Pilates based pregnancy exercise tends to be particularly suitable for pregnant women, since it is a low-impact form of exercise that strengthens the back, stomach and pelvic floor muscles. Our Pregnancy Wellbeing class for new clients starts at 13 weeks.
Q: What do private and group Hypnobirthing classes cover?
A: The hypnobirthing classes will look at the psychological, as well as the physical, well-being of the mother, her birth partner and the baby. The course is built around various hypnobirthing techniques, which include hypnobirthing relaxation, visualisation and special breathing techniques (up breathing/down breathing) as well us understanding the physiological changes that happen in labour and birth.
By the end of the course, you will know all the available options that labour may present, you will have considered your birth preferences and will be ready for a calm and confident birth.
Q: How many weeks pregnant should you be to do the Hypnobirthing course?
A: The earlier you start, the longer you have to practise the techniques of hypnobirthing. Ideally we say anytime from 20 weeks. If you are more than 36 weeks pregnant and don’t have time to attend the full course, we offer one-to-one intensive courses with you and your birth companion.
Q: How soon after birth can I start to exercise?
A: You should wait until you have had your 6-8 week postnatal check with your midwife of GP, and they have given you the go-ahead to attend classes before coming to a Soo Pilates class.
Q: What do babies do while mums exercise?
A: Please bring a baby blanket to class you can lay your baby on and toys. We have a few baby bouncers to keep the little ones entertained and are always happy to hold and cuddle crying babies, so mum can do her exercise.
Babies are ‘incorporated’ into the class wherever possible, but the focus is on mums getting their pre-pregnancy shape back safely and effectively.
Q: What areas does your home visit massage service cover?
A: We currently cover Notting Hill (W11), Kensington (W8 & W10), Bayswater (W2), Chiswick (W4) and Kensal Rise (NW10). Please contact us for a quote for other postcodes.
Q: How much of a commitment is the daddy baby massage class?
A: Our daddy baby massage class is taught as a workshop. We will show straightforward useful skills over 1.5 hours on a Saturday.
