The Taunton Pilates studio was opened by Karen Pearce in 2000. After a career as a professional ballet dancer she trained and qualified to teach Pilates with Alan Herdman in London. Now in it’s 25th year The Pilates Studio specialises in rehabilitation through Pilates and offers individualised programmes to clients using a range of specialist equipment. The conditions helped through Pilates range from posture related pain to more neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s and MS.
Celebrating 25 years of Pilates
We recently had our 25th birthday. You can watch a short montage video here: View Video
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a complete exercise regime designed to promote good posture, flexibility and controlled breathing, whilst toning muscles to attain a leaner, firmer body. This is achieved through small subtle exercises which are non-aerobic and suitable for any age and ability.
The idea of Pilates is to balance the muscles of the body – strengthening the weak and stretching those which are over used and tight. Once posture is improved and muscles of the pelvic girdle become stronger, back pain and related problems are then eliminated.
Pilates exercises are very subtle and the slightest recruitment of the wrong muscles will override the exercise and negate the benefit. In the studio we make sure that this technique is mastered so the exercises will then have the required effect to help with rehabilitation.
Pilates Equipment
The benefits of this technique are achieved far more quickly in a studio with specially designed machines using springs and ropes. The equipment we have in the studios includes Reformers, Trapeze Table, Core Align, Ladder Barrel and Combo Chair.
There are literally hundreds of exercises that can be performed on the various pieces of equipment and all of these can then be adapted for individual abilities and conditions, ranging from post surgical rehabilitation to a programme tailored for professional sports players.
Using the Pilates equipment not only adds interest and fun to the exercises but also, using the resistance and support of the springs, allows you to improve flexibility and balance, lengthen and strengthen muscles and achieve far greater results than just doing mat work exercises.
A Pilates Studio session generally lasts 60 or 75 minutes and individual tuition is provided in small groups, which allows each client to work at their own pace. Instructors are always in attendance to give as much help and guidance as needed.
The Reformer
The Reformer uses a moving carriage, springs and straps to build strength, alignment and control. It offers endless exercise options and suits beginners to advanced movers.
The Chair
Compact and deceptively powerful, the Pilates Chair challenges balance, core strength and stability. It’s brilliant for athletes, everyday movers and anyone wanting a focused, full-body workout.
The Ladder Barrel
The Ladder Barrel supports deep stretching, strength work and mobility, especially through the spine and hips. A fantastic tool for posture, flexibility and core stability.
The Trapeze Table (Cadillac)
The Trapeze Table combines springs, bars and straps for strength, mobility and assisted movement. It’s adaptable for gentle rehabilitation, athletic training and everything in between.
The CoreAlign
CoreAlign trains functional movement, balance and coordination using sliding platforms and resistance. It feels natural and upright, helping improve everyday movement patterns and overall body awareness.
