Derbyshire Pilates
Strengthen your body and improve your fitness with Pilates led by a friendly, experienced and qualified instructor.
Pilates is a great way to improve your movement as it focuses on building strength, improving balance, posture and increasing flexibility. Not only is Pilates a great way to stay active, but this popular exercise can be used for rehabilitation after injury.
Our friendly Pilates instructor, Sarah Gilbertson, runs regular sessions in and around the Hope Valley and Chesterfield areas. She offers mixed level matwork and intermediate level matwork classes, as well as private and semi-private lessons for those wanting to practice Pilates 1:1.
Pilates Classes Near You
We offer Pilates classes in three locations, Eyam, Bamford and Walton, at a mix of different fitness levels. We offer mixed level Pilates classes suitable for beginners, those returning to Pilates after a break, up to Intermediate level. Private and semi-private lessons are also available upon request.
If you are unsure on which class might suit you best, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise. Use the button below to book your class.
I've been going to MVMT Pilates classes with Sarah for several years, and can feel the benefit every single day. I have never been the fittest or most flexible person, but now I don't have any problems with knee or back pain that I used to. Sarah makes classes enjoyable, whilst maintaining a true professionalism. You're encouraged to push yourself, but work within your own limits. If ever I can't make a class, I honestly miss it, which speaks volumes. Give it a try, you won't regret it xx
- Suzanne Carp
Sarah is one of the best teachers you can have. She will explain, demonstrate and help you find the correct posture to get the most benefit from the classes. She is kind, chatty and can't do enough to give everyone the best experience. Highly recommended.
- Mir Jansen
Pilates FAQs
Who is Your Pilates Instructor?
Your instructor, Sarah, originally trained in Modern Pilates which was developed by Physiotherapists and Pilates Practitioners to bring a clinical and contemporary approach to the original Joseph Pilates exercises.
Sarah has continued her Pilates training, constantly learning and evolving as a teacher and practitioner. Most recently she has completed courses in Neuro Pilates, HealthyHIT™ Pilates Levels 1&2 (APPI) and Pilates for Kids and Teens (APPI). Her Pilates expertise has been further complemented by the study and practice of Therapeutic Yoga and Mindful Movement, which give her a unique approach when it comes to helping people to enjoy better quality movement. Find out more about Sarah on our about page.
What are the Benefits of Pilates?
Practicing Pilates on a regular basis comes with a number of benefits for people of all mobility levels, including:
-
Improved ‘core’ strength (our ‘core’ includes many of our back muscles, abs, diaphragm and pelvic floor amongst other muscles which all work together to help with postural support and movement)
-
It promotes mindfulness and increases awareness of your body
-
Your posture will improve with strengthened muscles and more alignment through the body and joints
-
It prevents injury and sometimes may reduce pain in your back or hips
-
Sports performance can be enhanced with strengthened and lengthened muscles
-
Social Pilates classes can boost your mood and do wonders for your mental health!
What is the Difference Between Yoga and Pilates?
Pilates and yoga do share the same objectives which are to improve strength, increase flexibility and posture, they differ in how those targets are reached.
Yoga uses still movements to engage the muscles, without the use of much equipment. Pilates on the other hand, is a constant flow of movements to keep the muscles actively engaged throughout the whole session. Pilates may also incorporate equipment such as resistance bands, Pilates rings or a foam roller.
What Muscles Does Pilates Target?
Pilates is a gentle, low-impact exercise that mainly targets your core muscles, which includes your abdominals, pelvic floor and back. Not only does this exercise help to strengthen muscles but you’ll also benefit from increased flexibility, posture and stimulation of the spine.
What Should I Bring to a Pilates Class in Derbyshire?
All you need is a mat, comfortable clothing and some water. All other equipment is provided. We work either in bare feet or ‘grip’ socks if you have them. Comfortable clothing is anything that allows you to move freely in without any belts that may cause discomfort when lying down.
Can Pilates Build Muscle?
Yes, Pilates is a great way to improve joint mobility and build muscle mass, specifically in the core region. The popular exercise involves a number of movements which involve stretching, lengthening, and expanding the muscles in your abdominal, back, and glutes. After regular Pilates classes in Derbyshire, you should start to notice toned, firm muscles. Not only does Pilates improve muscle tone, but it also improves mind-body connection, increased coordination and flexibility, and is most well known for improving posture. One of the most fantastic things about Pilates is that it can be practiced by almost anyone, as the moves are progressive and controlled.
How Many Times a Week Should I Do Pilates?
If you’re a beginner, we’d recommend starting with one Pilates class per week - it's best to ease into it if you’re looking to build a sustainable fitness routine. As you become stronger, or if you are wanting to progress faster, practice Pilates three to five times per week. If you can’t make it to an in-person class, it’s easy enough to practice at home with a few basic pieces of equipment and we also offer online content.
What Should You Wear For Derbyshire Pilates?
We’d recommend wearing clothing that is comfortable, breathable, and lightweight. You might want to avoid items of clothing that could restrict you or get in the way of certain movements. You will be getting up and down off the floor (mat) so make sure you’ve not got any belts on that might be uncomfortable when you’re lying down. Bare feet are fine as you will use your own mat but grip socks are highly recommended rather than socks as they will keep your feet warm and make sure you have good foot to mat contact. Most importantly, wear something that you feel comfortable and confident in!
Does Pilates Count As Cardio?
Whilst Pilates does burn calories, it doesn’t count as cardio training. Pilates is a form of strength training as it uses your own body weight and sometimes equipment (like bands in mat pilates or reformer machines) in low-impact movements that help to build muscular endurance, improve strength, coordination, balance and mobility over time.