Your Questions, Answered

  • Pilates is a form of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates, who originally called his method “Contrology”. It focuses on controlled, precise movement, with an emphasis on alignment, breathing, and core control.

    The aim is not just to exercise the body, but to move with awareness and intention, improving your posture and the way you feel and function in everyday life.

  • Not at all. Sessions are suitable for complete beginners as well as those returning to movement. Everything is guided clearly, with options to suit your level.

  • My sessions are mat-based Pilates rather than Reformer Pilates, using a range of small equipment to add resistance, challenge and variety. This allows each session to be individually tailored to your strength, movement and goals.

  • No. Pilates is suitable for people of all ages, fitness levels and body types. You don't need to be fit or flexible before you start.

    Sessions are tailored to your individual needs and ability, whether you're completely new to exercise, returning after a break, recovering from injury, or simply looking to move with greater ease and confidence.

    Pilates helps you gradually build strength, improve flexibility, enhance balance and develop better posture at a pace that feels right for you. The aim is to help you feel stronger and move more comfortably in everyday life—not to be flexible before you begin.

  • Pilates can help to improve strength, posture, flexibility, and overall body awareness. It supports the body in moving more efficiently and can help you feel more balanced and connected.

    Many people find it particularly helpful for building core strength, improving posture, reducing tension, and supporting the body through different life stages. Sessions are designed to meet you where you are, helping you move safely and build confidence over time.

  • Your free initial consultation is a relaxed one-to-one appointment designed to help us get to know each other and understand what you’d like to achieve from Pilates. We’ll discuss your health, exercise experience, any injuries or medical considerations and your goals, alongside a look at your posture and general movement. This gives me the information I need to begin planning a Pilates programme tailored specifically to you.

  • Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely. For your Free Consultation, fitted clothing such as a T-shirt or sports top with leggings or shorts is recommended, as this allows posture, alignment and movement to be looked at more accurately. Very loose or baggy clothing can make this more difficult. Sessions are completed barefoot or in socks.

  • For best results, sessions are ideally taken on a weekly basis. This allows you to build strength, consistency, and confidence over time.

Private Pilates

  • Sessions are available as 1:1, 2:1, or small private group sessions, depending on what suits you best.

    Pregnancy, postnatal and women’s health sessions & Breast Cancer sessions are typically offered on a 1:1 or 2:1 basis to ensure appropriate support.

    These can take place in person on online.

  • Yes, sessions can often be arranged at your home or place of work within the West Berks area. Please get in touch before booking to confirm availability.

  • Yes, Pilates can be a safe and supportive way to move during pregnancy. Sessions are carefully adapted to each stage, with a focus on breathing, posture, and gentle strength.

    if you have practised Pilates before and have not been told you have a high risk pregnancy, in most cases you can start as soon as you feel ready during your pregnancy.

    For those new to Pilates it is advised to wait until after your 1st Trimester to begin sessions.

    If you have a high-risk pregnancy or any complications, you will need to have been advised by your doctor or healthcare professional that you are safe to take part before attending sessions.

  • If you are new to Pilates it is usually recommended to wait until after your 6 week postnatal check before beginning exercise.

    If you have practised Pilates throughout your pregnancy, we can always start with Pelvic Floor exercises and gentle movement as soon as you feel ready and have healed.

    You are very welcome to get in touch to discuss your individual recovery, and we can decide on a suitable starting point.

  • In many cases, 1:1 Pilates sessions can be a supportive way to move with an injury or medical condition, depending on your individual circumstances. Sessions are adapted with this in mind, taking into consideration your needs and goals, with a focus on helping you move safely and build confidence in your body.

    In some cases, depending on the nature of a condition, it may not be appropriate to take part in Pilates sessions. If this is the case, I will always advise you accordingly.

    Pilates is not a medical treatment, and I do not diagnose or treat conditions. It is important that you have been advised by your doctor or specialist that you are fit to take part before beginning sessions.

    In some cases you will need to be given written confirmation by a GP or consultant before starting. Please get in touch to discuss.

Booking & Practical Information

  • Sessions can be booked online or by getting in touch directly.

  • At least 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations will be charged in full.

  • Yes, blocks of 6 one to one sessions are available and are ideally taken on a weekly basis. These can only be booked directly with Jenny after consultation with Jenny.

  • Jenny will always do her best to accommodate a full session where possible, although this may not always be possible and sessions will still end at the scheduled time.