Small group Pilates in Guildford

About Small Group Pilates Classes

Precision-led, low-impact exercise in an intimate setting at Studio W. Build core strength and flexibility with expert guidance. 

Are you looking for a more personalised approach to your fitness? Our small group Pilates sessions at Studio W offer the perfect balance between the energy of a group and the tailored attention of a private session. Limited to a maximum of seven participants, our classes ensure that you are never just a face in the crowd.

 Small group sessions are the ideal bridge between one-on-one tuition and large-scale classes. By keeping our groups small, our instructors can focus on the quality of your movement, providing individual corrections and tailored modifications to suit your specific goals or physical requirements.

The focus of every session is on controlled, precise movements designed to improve core strength, posture, and body awareness. Whether you are an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone looking to move with more ease in daily life, our small group setting provides a supportive and focused environment.

What is small group Pilates?

Unlike traditional mat-based Pilates, Reformer Pilates uses a specialised machine. The Reformer is a bed-like frame featuring a sliding carriage, pulleys, and springs. These springs provide adjustable resistance, allowing for a far wider range of exercises and a more versatile full-body workout.

By using the Reformer, we can either challenge your strength with resistance or provide support for your joints, making it a highly effective, low-impact workout that enhances balance and flexibility without placing undue stress on the body.

Small group Pilates FAQ

Small Group Pilates Classes FAQ

I’ve never used a Reformer machine before; can I still join?

Absolutely. Our small group size is perfect for beginners. The instructor will guide you through how to use the machine safely and ensure you feel confident with the springs and pulleys before you begin.

While both focus on core strength and alignment, the Reformer provides resistance through springs. This can make exercises more challenging or provide support that makes certain movements easier to achieve than they would be on a mat.

Yes, often it is highly recommended. Because our instructors (including Gemma and Ellie) have an osteopathic background, we can adapt the exercises to support your rehabilitation. However, we always recommend an initial consultation if you have acute pain.

Wear comfortable, form-fitting exercise clothing that allows you to move freely. For safety and hygiene on the Reformer machines, we require participants to wear “grip socks” (socks with rubber pads on the soles).

For most people, attending two sessions a week leads to noticeable improvements in strength, flexibility, and posture within a few weeks. Consistency is key to seeing long-term changes in your body awareness.

Pilates is a fantastic way to maintain strength during pregnancy. However, we ask that you inform us before booking so our instructors can provide the necessary modifications for your specific trimester.

No, all equipment is provided at Studio W. We maintain our Reformers to the highest standards, ensuring they are clean and ready for your session. Just bring yourself, your grip socks, and some water!

Yes, you can see our Pilates reviews on our Google profile here.

They are held at Studio W, which is based in the same building as Willow Health Therapy rooms, our Stoughton clinic.

Prices vary depending on whether you are using an introductory offer, a class pack or become a member.

You can see all our prices on the Studio W website here.

Personal attention in small group Pilates

Why use GW Osteopathy?

  • Clinical Expertise: Our team includes Gemma Ware and Ellie Tapper, who are both qualified Pilates instructors and experienced Osteopaths. This clinical background ensures your safety and optimal technique.
  • Intimate Classes: With a maximum of 7 participants, you receive the individual attention required to master complex movements.
  • Specialist Equipment: We use high-quality Reformer machines to provide a versatile workout that mat Pilates simply cannot replicate.
  • A Supportive Team: Gemma and Ellie are joined by an experienced team of Pilates, Barre, and Yoga instructors, offering a holistic approach to movement and wellbeing.
  • Affordability: Enjoy the benefits of expert instruction and specialist equipment at a more accessible price point than private one-on-one sessions.
Pilates in Guildford

Small Group Pilates Classes Benefits

  • Personalised Progressions: Your instructor can offer specific challenges or modifications based on your current fitness level.
  • Improved Core Stability: The Reformer’s resistance specifically targets the deep stabilising muscles of the core.
  • Postural Alignment: Regular sessions help to correct muscular imbalances and promote a taller, more confident posture.
  • Joint-Friendly Strength: As a low-impact exercise, it is an excellent choice for those with joint sensitivities or those recovering from injury.
  • Greater Body Awareness: The precise nature of the movements helps you connect with how your body moves, reducing the risk of injury in daily life.
Small group Pilates top tips

Top tips

  • Focus on the Breath: Breathing is a core pillar of Pilates; it helps engage your deep abdominal muscles and keeps your movements fluid.
  • Quality Over Quantity: It is better to do five repetitions with perfect form than twenty with poor alignment. Listen to your instructor’s cues.
  • Listen to Your Body: While you should feel your muscles working, you should never feel “sharp” pain. Communicate with your instructor if something doesn’t feel right.
  • Consistency Matters: Try to schedule your sessions at the same time each week to build a routine that your body can adapt to.
  • Stay Hydrated: Even though it is low-impact, Pilates is a full-body workout. Ensure you drink plenty of water before and after your class.
Special offers

Small Group Pilates Classes Special Offers

If you’re new to Pilates at Studio W, there are introductory offers available. See the offers.

1:2:1 Pilates

One to one Pilates appointments are also available. If you’re looking for individual or couples Pilates sessions, please see our 1:2:1 Pilates information.

GW Osteopathy logo

We are based in 3 locations in Surrey:

  • Dapdune House: central Guildford location with free onsite parking
  • Willow Health Therapy Rooms: Stoughton, Guildford with free onsite parking
  • Surrey Holistic: Godalming

We are open Monday – Saturday and every other Sunday. If you have any further questions, please do get in touch.

Want to find out more?

Acupuncture enquiry

Get in touch with Esther directly to request an appointment. You can find out more about her at www.estherholford.com

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