The Method

My understanding is that Pilates restores or creates body integrity.

Pilates is a mind-body exercise method with many benefits for people of all ages, occupations and fitness levels — as well as for performers, dancers, singers, musicians and other specialists. I run workshops and lessons for those specialist groups alongside my work with the general public. I teach live online too, after a short consultation to confirm it suits you — everything except large-equipment work, unless you have your own Reformer or Chair.

I hold Pilates Instructor qualifications from STOTT Pilates (Canada) and PTAF (South Africa) for both matwork and large equipment. I obtained a Master’s Degree in Music through the University of Stellenbosch (cum laude) in which I formally combined my two disciplines — Pilates and singing. I have been teaching Pilates for well over 20 years and have a particular affinity for fixing body issues.

What Pilates is

The Pilates method of exercise is taught by many people in many different ways and with various approaches. The method was designed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s. He was a visionary in his advanced approach towards health and fitness, and many of his beliefs are considered vital to our modern understanding of physical health.

Because the method has been around so long — taught by many people over many continents, and because Joseph drew heavily on other methods including Yoga — it is not always easy to explain exactly what Pilates is. But it has certain principles that underlie it. I follow the Pilates Conditioning and the STOTT Pilates systems to a great extent, although much of what and how I teach is determined by the pupil and, of course, by my own personality, philosophy, experience and teaching style.

This definition, I feel, is very fitting for the Pilates method.

The principles

This is achieved through the application of certain principles that underlie the method.

Mind-body. One of the most beneficial principles is the mind-body aspect, which requires a conscious effort — concentration — to be applied to all the exercises. This ensures that an understanding of the body is developed, and therefore that the “integrity” being built is something that will exist beyond the studio.

A strong centre. Pilates strives to create a body that works without undue tension. Tension is often the root cause of injury, and incorrect or imbalanced muscle usage is often the cause of tension. It follows that a body able to work without undue tension is less likely to be injured and is also likely to work more effectively. This requires concentration and understanding (mind-body communication), creating a strong centre — a girdle of strength — by engaging transversus abdominis especially. Correct body alignment (e.g. maintaining a neutral pelvis so the correct muscles can work) then enables strong, flowing and coordinated movements.

Alignment. The body is a complex but closed system, and anything unbalanced within it will create problems elsewhere. A strong centre ensures the body can retain its alignment and that the correct muscles for any action are able to be engaged.

Lateral breathing. Breathing is used as a catalyst for many of these underlying principles. Many disciplines, especially those dealing with relaxation, use breathing to channel concentration and effort. When you are focused on how you are breathing, you are far less likely to be replaying your to-do list at the same time. This allows you to mentally relax, which allows you to focus on the task at hand, which enables physical relaxation to follow.

Lateral breathing also frees the rib cage and thoracic spine by creating movement and suppleness — which in turn promotes relaxation, among other things. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system brings calming, mind-settling benefits that many people value in a Pilates practice. Breathing through movements prevents tension from building up and distorting the body’s alignment, letting movements flow gracefully. Breathing laterally is also one of the best ways of creating that girdle of strength — an out-breath reminds you to engage transversus abdominis, one of the most important posture-stabilising muscles.

Who it’s for

Very few people have a body without flaws. We all have a basic structure with inherent or created strengths and weaknesses. Stress, injury, ageing and illness all take their toll. We are, however, extremely fortunate to have minds that are able to control our bodies to such a large extent. It is thus the mind-body control aspect of Pilates that makes it so exciting and special — it opens a whole new and largely untapped world to so many of us: body integrity.

The Pilates method is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Many people find it helps with:

It is a gentle but effective method, and is recommended by many osteopaths, chiropractors and physiotherapists. Many clients also find it supports mood, quality of life, mindfulness and a positive mindset.

Pilates supports your well-being, but is not a substitute for medical care. If you have a diagnosed condition, please consult your doctor first.

Online teaching

Teaching online lets me work with clients anywhere in the world, while cutting down on travel and carbon emissions.