Yoga & Pilates
Improve your flexibility, posture and build muscle strength. Yoga and pilates are types of holistic fitness, which can be done in a class or on your own.
Why is it good for me?
Yoga and Pilates aim to improve full body strength, flexibility, balance, posture and coordination.
Pilates has a particular emphasis on working your core muscles.
Yoga and pilates also have great mental health benefits, providing an opportunity to relax, reflect and escape everyday stresses.
Yoga specifically is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of yoga are poses, breathing and meditation.
How much does it cost?
Class prices range from anything from £6 to £25 per session depending on the location, equipment used, specialism and capacity of the class.
Many pilates and yoga instructors offer private sessions which typically range from £40 to £70.
Studios offer packages and membership discounts which make regular attendance more cost effective.
You could also invest in a DVD to follow at home, or find free videos on YouTube.
What equipment do I need?
To get started all you need are comfortable clothes and a bottle of water. You might also want to have a towel handy, either to use as support for some poses, or if you get a bit sweaty!
Mats will be provided at a class, but you will need to buy your own if you’re working out at home or outside.
Some sessions may incorporate other equipment, such as foam blocks, that enable you to further tailor the workout for you. These will be provided for you in a class and any DVD or video workout will say what equipment you’ll need.