FQA

Q: I’m completely new to Pilates or out of shape. Can I still join an "All Levels" class?

A: Absolutely! All of my group classes are designed using a progressive "Layers" approach. We start every exercise at a safe, fundamental baseline. From there, I offer options to add intensity or stay right where you are. You will never be forced to do a move you aren’t ready for, and you will never be left behind. For Mat classes, you must be comfortable and able to get down to and up from the mat on the floor independently. If you struggle with getting up and down from the floor, experience significant joint pain, or manage conditions like vertigo or balance instability, my Chair Pilates class is the ideal alternative!

Q: What is the difference between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates?

A: Mat Pilates uses your own body weight, small props (like rings, resistance bands, and balls), and gravity to build deep core strength, mobility, and control. It is actually the core foundation of the entire Pilates method! Reformer Pilates uses a spring-loaded machine. Both are wonderful, but Mat Pilates teaches you how to truly master and support your own body in space. Reformers were created to assist clients on a one to one basis to become stronger for Mat Pilates.

Q: I have a back injury, arthritis, or a medical condition. Is it safe for me to attend?

A: Yes, provided you have medical clearance from your doctor or physiotherapist. As a qualified Exercise Specialist, I am trained and insured to work with long-term conditions, joint issues, and injuries. Because our classes are small, I can provide tailored modifications specifically for your body. Please make sure to mention any conditions on your health questionnaire before your first class!

Q: What should I wear to class?

A: Wear comfortable, breathable workout clothing that allows you to move freely (like leggings, joggers, or a supportive top). Try to avoid clothes with heavy zips or buttons that might press uncomfortably into your back when lying on the mat. Pilates is typically done in grip socks or bare feet—no trainers required!

💡 A quick note for shorts lovers: If you choose to wear shorts, please make sure they have a snug inner tight lining or compression layer underneath! We spend a lot of class with our legs lifted straight up toward the ceiling, and as much as I love my job, keeping your private parts private is a boundary I think we can all agree on! 😂

Q: Do I need to bring my own mat or equipment?

A: All mats and specialised props (such as bands, balls, and rings) are provided in the studio. You are, of course, welcome to bring your own mat and head block if you prefer, along with a bottle of water!

Q: What if I can’t do a certain exercise in class?

A: That is completely normal and expected! Every body is different on any given day. In my studio, there is no pressure or judgment. If a layer doesn't feel right for you, you simply take the lower layer or give me a wave, so i can assist you. Listening to your body is considered a success in my classes, not a failure!

Q: How does your booking system work? Is it like a gym/Pilates Studio class pass?

A: No—I run my studio on a "Dance Academy" model, not a gym model. Gym passes often turn class booking into a stressful, fastest-finger-first competition every week. Instead, my Monthly Packages secure your dedicated spot in the exact same class time every single week for the entire month. There is no battling fellow participants for a slot—your mat is reserved exclusively for you.

Unless you are booking Individual classes, best to be quick on the website to secure your slots.

Q: What is the difference between a Monthly Package and Individual Class Bookings?

A: Monthly Packages: Best for consistency and saving money! Secures your weekly spot for the calendar month at £13 per class (£52/month, or £44 for Senior/Chair Pilates). Packages run alongside the school term schedule, and you receive priority right-of-refusal to renew your spot for the following month. (Note: Packages must be booked directly via email).

Individual Class Bookings: Perfect if you work shifts (like nurses or emergency services), have an unpredictable schedule, or are a visiting athlete/instructor. These are £14 per class (£12.50 for Senior/Chair) and can be booked directly on the website once package spaces are finalised at the end of each month.

Q: When do Monthly Package bookings open?

A : Packages are booked mid-month for the upcoming calendar month. Existing package holders receive an email around the middle of the month (e.g., mid-August for September classes) with priority access to renew their weekly spot. If you wish to join as a new package holder, please contact Sandra via email mid-month to be added to the booking list before spaces are released to the public.

Q: When are Individual Classes released on the website?

A : Pay-as-you-go individual classes are released on the website one week before the new month begins. Once our monthly package holders have confirmed their spaces, any remaining mats are opened up on the online schedule for individual booking (usually around the 21st to 24th of each month).

Q: What happens if a class is marked as "Full" online?

A: If an individual class appears full on the website, drop me an email. I manage a manual waitlist and can often slot you in if a last-minute space opens up. You can also add yourself to the waitlist on the booking system.

Q: What is "The Pilates Swap List" and how does it work?

A: Think of the Swap List as a friendly exchange program within our Pilates community! If you can't attend your regular package class, here is how I try to help:

1) Give Notice: Email me at least 24 hours in advance to let me know you'll miss your class. (Verbal mentions in passing can get lost, so email is required!).

2) Request a Swap: Let me know which alternative class you’d like to swap into that same week.

3) Check on the Day: Because swaps are managed manually outside the online booking system, swaps are not guaranteed. Please email me on the morning of your desired swap class to check if a spot has opened up.

Q: What is your cancellation, refund, and attendance policy?

A: As a small, independent business with limited class sizes, all bookings are final—there are no refunds or credits for missed classes.

Strictly Non-Transferable: Bookings are reserved for you alone to maintain fairness and ensure proper health screening. Spots cannot be shared, gifted, or sold to others.
School Breaks: Packages follow the school term schedule. Classes running during school holidays/breaks are booked individually.
Frequent Cancellations & No-Shows: Packages offer a discounted rate in exchange for commitment. Frequent last-minute cancellations (under 24 hours) or "no-shows" (missing class with zero notice) prevent others from practicing and disrupt the Swap List. If this occurs repeatedly, package renewal privileges will be temporarily suspended, and you will be moved to Individual Bookings to ensure fairness for everyone on the waiting list.

Q: Where are classes held, and where should I park?

A: Classes are held across two local venues:

West Wickham Venue:

Address: Medhurst Hall, Sussex Road, West Wickham, BR4 0JX.
⚠️ Important Parking Notice: Sussex Road is a very tight, one-way system and should not be driven down. Please park at the West Wickham High Street Car Park and take the short walk to the hall.

Hayes Venue:

Address: Norman Park Community Sports Centre, Hayes Lane, Bromley, BR2 9EG.
🚗 Parking: On-site Free Parking is available directly at the sports centre.