We have the best list of the finest Pilates studios in Sydney and surrounding areas – read on…
By now pretty much everyone in Sydney has heard of pilates (say “pill-ah-tees”!). The growing popularity of this conditioning and corrective method is due in great part to its suitability for all types of bodies, lifestyles, conditions or injuries. The fact that celebrities and elite sports stars are all doing it also contributes to the massive rise in popularity. Carrie-ann Moss was a daily devotee of Pilates International during the Matrix filming in Sydney, and local stars such as Wendy Harmer, Miranda Otto and Ian Moss are all “pilatophiles”.
Pilates has been around for almost a century. The method is based upon realistic, sensible principles that combine the best of Eastern and Western philosophy, focusing on the connection of mind and body creating a strong stable body that moves freely and functionally. Pilates aims to create balance in the body – in all systems and all ways.
Some of the major benefits of adopting the Pilates Method include the ability to target specific muscle groups that require strengthening or release to correct postural imbalances – which may also often be the primary cause of lower back pain. Contemporary lifestyles contribute constantly to poor posture and chronic conditions that manifest in the body. Shoulders become tight and lifted, the necessary curves of the spine either disappear or become extreme, abdominals become weaker as the low back becomes tighter, necks become tense, upper back weakens and slumps forward. These are just a few of the common problems that pilates has the ability to correct and prevent. Strong abdominals support the spine and control the torso, balanced curves through the spine can absorb shock and hold the torso upright, and stable and free-moving joints allow for easy movement of the limbs around a strong centre.
A great part of the beauty of pilates as a corrective technique is the opportunity to use resistance to build strength and endurance whilst working in a no-to-low impact environment. Along with the obvious benefits that pilates offers to posture, back and joint care, it’s constantly proving to be a major benefit in conditions of the respiratory, neural and digestive systems, as well as aiding in regulation of chemical production and distribution within the body. The positive effects of pilates are endless.
The best way to really understand what pilates can do for you, is to try it. Programs will be individually tailored for your needs, but you will need to give it five or six sessions before you start to grasp where it might take you. An introductory package for starting off is a great idea – these packages give you a combined rate lower than paying as you go, and are designed to give you a starting knowledge of the method in your own body. Check out a studio from the list below or seek out the Australasian regulatory body, The Pilates Alliance, who will help you find a reputable studio or instructor appropriate for you.
Sally Anderson, director of Pilates International in Surry Hills, offers this advice: “Pilates has a unique ability to correct postural problems, back and joint problems, as well as many conditions and common injuries. However, it needs to be done with great supervision in order to create changes and correct working technique. Large group classes will not offer you the real benefits of the pilates method, and may in fact be detrimental to many people. Make sure the studio or instructor you choose has trained extensively and maintains a controlled ratio of clients to instructor. We recommend a maximum of four people to one instructor.”
City Studios
Pilates International
Suites 41-42, 61 Marlborough St
Surry Hills NSW 2010
(02) 9699 5509
Director: Sally Anderson
A large, open studio with lots of air and light, focusing on traditional pilates with contemporary understanding of biomechanical application. Rehab to elite training available. Also features Mum + 1 post-natal classes Delivers registered certification programs for instructor training.
South Sydney
Absolute Pilates
101a Gymea Bay Rd Gymea
(02) 9531 5255
Director: Kristy Selden, B Med Sc Quality contemporary pilates in a bright and friendly atmosphere. Rehabilitation through to elite training with a maximum of three clients to instructor.
Eastern Suburbs
Kerry Etkin Pilates & Physiotherapy Randwick Medical Centre
155 Belmore Rd Randwick
0410 561 564
Director: Kerry Etkin
An individualised practise offering contemporary approach to traditional pilates in conjunction with Kerry’s knowledge as a physiotherapist with post graduate degree. Excellent rehabilitation combination.
The Pilates Place
5 Albion St Waverley 0418 441 138 Director: Sarah Walker
On the same premises as the Yoga Warehouse, this boutique studio features the traditional method combined with a contemporary approach. Mainly apparatus sessions.
Pilates Moves
390 New South Head Rd
Double Bay 1360
(02) 9328 5600
Director: Helen Tardent
Right in the heart of “the Bay” this studio offers group classes using the matwork system as well as the Allegro group reformer classes. Emphasis is on fitness rather than rehabilitation.
Bhodimaya Pilates Centre
2/44 Bondi Rd Bondi 2026
(02) 9369 4354
Director: Chrystene Carol
Upstairs on Bondi Rd, this newly renovated centre offers apparatus and matwork sessions. Also associated alternative and traditional practitioners on-site.
North Shore
Pilates on Park
774 Pacific Highway Gordon 2072
(02) 9499 3164
Director: Amanda Clayton
With a pleasant, relaxing and personalised environment, this fully equipped studio provides highly supervised rehabilitation and general training for all ages.
Manly
Powerhouse Pilates Studio Level 1, 28 The Corso Manly 2095 (02) 9977 1536 Director: Catherine Aquilina Just a stroll from the beach, this studio offers contemporary apparatus sessions plus matwork classes. Specialising in pilates for pregnancy. Physiotherapists on site plus Polestar Education program.
Central Coast
Pilates International @ Fitness 2000 310 The Entrance Rd Erina
Director: Sally Anderson
Studio Manager: Renae Blackmore Highly trained and experienced instructors in separate studio offering apparatus and matwork sessions. Also best quality matwork group classes offered in the main centre. Great discounts on studio pilates for members of Fitness 2000.
Northern Coast
Bodiline Pilates Studio
2/ 74 Clarence St. Port Macquarie
Ph: (02) 65845099
Director: Lyn Suitor
Offering traditional style pilates with a contemporary approach, tailored programs with biomechanical application of work from rehabilitation to body conditioning. A professional and relaxed environment in a fully equipped studio overlooking the waters of Port Macquarie.
