Getting Started

Why Diamond Press Pilates & Massage?
  • My classes focus on quality over quantity
  • All equipment is provided
  • Small friendly classes
  • Luxary studio with underfloor heating
  • Tranquil classes outside in the Summertime
  • You will benefit from Physiology lectures that help you understand the fundamentals of Pilates, muscle imbalances, injury and kinetic chains.
Your instructor is hightly qualified:
  • Body Control Pilates trained
  • Back4Good trained in the Prevention & Management of Low Back Pain
  • Bone Health (Osteoporosis/Osteopenia) qualified
  • Pre & Post Pregnancy qualified
  • Trainee Osteopath
Medical Form
You'll need to complete an medical form before attending classes; it's important for me to be aware of any medical issues and it enables me to understand what you would like to achieve from your Pilates workouts.
My first class and how will I progress?

As you might expect, we first start with the basics and build up gradually; if we have already started the course you will be offered a First Class Workshop which will allow you to catch up with the basics and then join in one of the classes that best suits your ability.

PLEASE NOTE that although the basics may not have the wow factor of a high paced dynamic exercise class advanced Pilates is very tough and you will need some time to become aware of your body before progressing towards this level of exercise if this is what you want.

Getting the basics right before working at advanced level is key and it can take at least 6 to 12 weeks to master some of the initial exercise movements especially the breathing patterns which work alongside the exercises.

My classes focus on teaching Pilates properly from scratch followed by steady progression, they are not diluted versions which you get in large classes. You will discover that it is possible to do beginner exercises, work hard and still reap the benefits of all Pilates has to offer without hurting yourself as the classes focus on quality.

In my experience most people who start Pilates struggle with the breathing patterns and then give up. The main thing to remember is to start mapping the exercise moves and if you are really struggling with the breathing, bring this element in later.

Don't panic! Half-way through the first term you are offered a discounted one-to-one private lesson to cover anything you may find challenging. Once the breathing element is no longer a problem, you will find yourself able to progress confidently towards Intermediate level.

What if I am unable to attend a class?

Sometimes life occurrences or unavoidable illness may mean that you're unable to attend . Ideally, please let me know 24 hours before, so that I can offer your space to any individuals wishing to make up for a missed class.

I will offer you an alternative space in another class during the current term but this is subject to availability. Once places are filled I'm sorry but any missed classes will then become forfeit; refunds cannot be accepted.

Thank you for understanding.

Medical Clearance Letter

All pilates instructors should accept medical clearance before a client commences a special population's course.

This is not only for your own health and safety but it is necessary for the instructor's insurance cover. Although inconvenient due to time taken and sometimes hidden doctor's letter charges please note I have produced a standard letter that you can give to your GP which in the majority of cases does not incur charges.

If you present the letter to your GP during your general doctor's appointment the GP will usually sign & stamp it with no charge incurred as there is no correspondence for the GP to deal with.

If you feel you do not wish to get medical clearance then you will be asked to sign a form stating this is your decision and will have to take responsibility for your own health while participating in these classes and understand that the instructor is not liable for any injuries that may incur.

Bookings

Please reach out to me via email (Lois@dimaondpresspilates.com) or post to (29 Whitby Close, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 6TR).

Once I receive your correspondence I will contact you directly to introduce myself and arrange any First-Class Workshops, interviews, postural analysis requests and any other questions you may have.

After this consultation payments will become due (see payments for more information)

Payments

Classes usually consist of 6-week blocks, usually corresponding with the school term, sometimes the school term is 7 or 8 weeks in which case I will notify you and the fees adjust accordingly. All payments are to be paid in full by the first day of term.

Card payments, cheques and cash are the preferred method of payment.

Cash is accepted, however, please ensure the exact amount is put in an envelope with your name on as I do not carry change on the night to save time and keep classes punctual. This also enables me to identify the payment after class.

Bank transfers are also availiable and bank details will be given during the initial consultation or upon request.

Termination of Classes

If you wish to leave, I will be sad to see you go however out of respect please provide 6 weeks notice at the start of your last intended term. I ask this as courtesy to allow me time to find a replacement and also out of respect to your fellow colleagues should you be part of a private member set-price group as fees are being equally distributed (thank you for understanding).

What should I wear? Is there anything I should bring?

CLOTHING: Please wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move around in. Track-suit bottoms and a T-shirt are fine; you may find some exercises easier if wearing socks. Please note that the closer fitting your clothing, the easier it is for me to see what your body is doing and correct it if necessary. This means that you will get much more out of the exercises and progress more quickly than if wearing baggy clothing.

WATER: Please bring plenty of water as it is important to stay hydrated.

EQUIPMENT All mats and equipment are provided but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.

I'm 65 years old and I've never exercised in my life. Is it too late to start?

Never! It's never too late. Go slowly and you'll be amazed how much your muscles will respond. Check with your doctor before starting, just to be on the safe side.

I love to work with elderly clients as well as younger ones, because both are able to make such rapid progress and this can make a big difference to so many lives.