Getting started

The first thing you need to do is come and meet us and have firstly a postural assessment.  We will discuss your general medical history and lifestyle.  We will show you in great detail how to breathe correctly and engage the core stabilising muscles and aim to integrate this knowledge into some basic moves.  This can be arranged either here at the gym in Bradfield College Sports Complex or at our new studio in Yattendon at the time that suits you.

As Pilates instructors we are not necessarily clinically trained and can only address the needs in terms of a more fitness related outcome.  We only work within the frame work of our own expertise.  As instructors it’s important we understand the true characteristics and role of the local stabilising muscles and neurology to devise an appropriate programme.  Here at Gecko we are currently enjoying a good reputation in being able to provide correctly designed one to one programmes and deliver safe and effective classes.  We have several clients who have been referred to us by physiotherapists and osteopaths.

As a client we consider all of your needs.  This is achieved by choosing specific exercises to suit your posture type.  No one programme fits all! We will go through a series of checks to ensure that a programme is designed specifically to your posture.  We discuss what action we need to take and decide what class would be suitable for you.  If we feel that you are a complete beginner and not yet ready for a class we may suggest you start with some one-to-ones to begin with.

During your assessment with us prior to taking up Pilates it is important you let us know:

• Of any previous or current injuries.
• If you are suffering from any spinal injuries or living with pain you may be asked to get clearance from your doctor, Osteopath, Physiotherapist or Chiropractor prior to undertaking Pilates with us.
• We will need to establish whether certain types of movement aggravate or re-aggravate an injury or condition.  If during your training with us you experience new aches and pains as a result of doing Pilates and we are concerned we may refer you back to a therapist.
• When we have established where there is movement dysfunction then appropriate exercise will be given which over time can be addressed through the use of simple repetitive skill learning.  Eventually the body may be able to perform the task with correct muscular engagement patterns within good exercise technique and greater body awareness.