Introducing you to the joy of Pilates
Our Pilates classes in Norwich are ideal for beginners who want to build a strong and balanced body, recover from old injuries, or undo the aches and pains caused by modern lifestyles and sedentary working.
So, what’s a Pilates class like?
Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout. Most of the class is performed lying down on the mat – which might sound easy, but it’s not! We use the body’s own weight as resistance, using correct alignment and correct muscular engagement to build strength and stability. With regular practice, you’ll see impressive results – better posture, a stronger and more balanced body, fewer aches and pains, and a much better connection between your mind and body.
The good news is that our classes are suitable for everyone. We have students of all ages and abilities attend our classes in Norwich. Some have been recommended Pilates by their physio, some use the movements as a lifelong ‘balm’ for old injuries, others are improving their strength and performance for sports – and most of us just love the way a Pilates class makes us feel the next morning.
Meet your Pilates teacher
Row Pilates is the practice of Aoife, a comprehensively trained Classical Pilates teacher based in Norwich. Aoife qualified with Holly Murray at the internationally recognised Pi Studios in London.
She has a lifelong passion for movement and experience in various disciplines. In 2008, she moved from Dublin to train in contemporary dance at Laban in London. After graduating, Aoife certified as a yoga teacher with CamYoga in Cambridge and taught classes in Brighton before moving to Norwich.
Today, she brings her experience and enthusiasm for movement to Pilates students in Norwich. She currently teaches in-studio classes at Inner Space on Benedict Street in Norwich, at the village hall in Saxlingham Nethergate, and Matwork & Apparatus classes at Pilates East.
Where does Pilates come from?
Pilates was originally called ‘Controlology’ by its creator Joseph Pilates. Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1883. He was a boxer, gymnast, circus performer and all-round movement enthusiast. He designed his system to correct imbalances and weaknesses in the body, heal injuries, and support health.
He began to develop his system while interned in enemy camps during WW1 where he helped fellow internees who suffered from wartime illnesses and the effects of incarceration. During the 1918 flu epidemic, his exercise system helped keep students in peak health.
In 1926 he moved to New York and opened his first gym with his partner Clara. His method attracted people from all walks of life - from office workers with bad backs to famous choreographers including George Balanchine and Martha Graham who regularly sent dancers to Joe for rehabilitation.
Today, the Pilates method has become popular all over the world and continues to be the gold standard in movement practices.