Frequently Asked Questions
Below you'll find the questions most frequently asked at Balance Fitt. If you cannot find the answer to your question here, please contact us.
What is Pilates?
At Balance Fitt we offer Pilates in a small group setting at our private studio or one-to-one sessions for those who need extra support.
Pilates is a mat-based exercise class If practised with consistency helps improve flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, developing a strong core, and improving coordination and balance.
Pilates has something to offer people of all ages and levels of ability and fitness, from beginners to elite athletes.
Our Pilates teachers are very passionate about their practice and have been practising Pilates as well as teaching Pilates for many years. We also specialise in working with populations who suffer from injuries such a back issues, knees, hips & shoulders to just name a few.
Before starting any exercise programme, it's advisable to seek advice from your GP or a health professional if you have any health concerns, such as a health condition or an injury.
What is Reformer Pilates
At Balance Fitt we offer a form of exercise that uses a specialised piece of equipment called a "reformer" to enhance the principles of Pilates, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and overall body conditioning. The reformer machine is a bed-like frame with a sliding carriage and springs, pulleys, and straps that add resistance and support during exercises.
What is yoga
At Balance Fitt we offer a variety of different styled Yoga classes, which means that there is something for everyone.
Yoga is not just about fitness but also about developing a strong spiritual awareness with yourself and the earth, this is taught throughout our sessions. You do not need to be flexible, and you do not need to have exercised before attending. Read more about the different styles of yoga we offer.
We recommend that you try all the different classes and find the style that you feel most comfortable with. All of our wonderful teachers have years of experience in practising as well as teaching.
What's the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
While the methods are different, pilates and yoga both develop strength, balance, flexibility, posture and good breathing technique. Both systems emphasise the connection between physical and mental health, although yoga places more emphasis on relaxation and uses meditation. Pilates is performed both on apparatus and mats, whereas classic yoga doesn't require any equipment. Pilates exercises are performed in a flow of movement without the static poses associated with yoga.
What class should I do?
We recommend that you try all of our classes by purchasing our ‘New Client Offer’. (Mat Classes) Our classes are mixed ability, so they are suitable for beginners or those who may be suffering from injury.
New to Reformer use codes TRY4 & TRY8 at the checkout.
Already a Mat Member?
You can now enjoy the reformer with our exclusive codes:
Membersonly4 or Membersonly8
These can be used again and again as long as you hold a current mat membership!
Am I fit enough to do classes?
Practising Pilates & Yoga regularly will help improve your fitness levels. Our classes are mixed ability and suitable for beginners.
How much is it? How do I pay?
We operate a membership system which allows you the flexibility to choose the number of classes you would like to take a week, block bookings or pay-as-you-go options are available.
Our current prices are shown on the class prices page.
How do I book a class?
All classes are booked online via the Schedule page.
We also have an app called the Achieve app.. (Type wellness living into your app store, and you will find the purple achieve flower icon.)
What do I need to bring/wear?
We have both mats and equipment at the studio that are cleaned regularly. If you would rather bring your own, that's fine. There is a £2 fee for mat hire. You should arrive at the studio in comfortable clothing – loose/movable bottoms such as leggings or shorts, and the same for the top half. Reformer, we recommend fitted items so they don't get caught in the machines. Gripped socks or bare feet only are allowed in the main studio. In the reformer class, you must wear gripped socks, or you can not use the equipment. You can bring your own or purchase socks from us at £5.99, you pay on arrival or purchase from our online shop via the booking system.
Water bottles are allowed, or you can buy water at the studio.
Do I need to be flexible?
You do not need to be flexible; both Pilates and yoga will help you improve your flexibility with regular practice.
I am pregnant, can I do a class?
If you are a regular member, then yes, it's fine to continue attending classes unless your GP advises otherwise. We recommend that you inform your teacher and email info@balancefitt.com, as well as updating your medical form, as soon as possible. If you are pregnant or have just had a baby, or are new to fitness, then we recommend that you email us, and we can discuss a suitable class option for your needs.
Can I park outside?
No, there is no parking directly outside the building. However, there are several car parks nearby, with Matthew Street being the closest—just a 2-minute walk away. Alternatively, you can park for free at Bennet's Recreation Area, which is a short walk away. Darrell House