Answering all your Pilates questions.

Whether you’re completely new to Pilates or just curious about how our studio works, we know starting something new can come with a few questions. At CPS, we often get asked about what makes Pilates different, what to expect in a class, and how it can support your individual goals, from injury rehab to enhancing your fitness routine. To help you feel informed and confident, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions we hear from clients. If you’re considering giving Pilates a go, this is a great place to start.

• How does Pilates differ from yoga? 

We get asked this a lot! While both Pilates and yoga focus on body awareness, flexibility and breath, Pilates is more targeted towards building core strength and improving postural alignment. It’s very much grounded in anatomy and movement mechanics, so you’ll often find it’s a bit more structured around specific movement patterns and intentional in its approach. Yoga can be more spiritual or meditative depending on the style, whereas Pilates tends to focus more on physical function and control.

• Does Pilates build strength? 

Absolutely. Pilates is brilliant for building strength, particularly focusing  on the deep core muscles, glutes, legs, arms and back. It uses controlled movements and resistance (often from springs and other equipment or your own body weight) to develop uniformity in muscles rather than focusing on building muscle definition. It may seem like you’re not doing much but the exercises can be seriously challenging!

• What are the types of equipment I would be using in class?

In a studio class, you’ll likely use the Reformer, Wunda Chair, Trap Table, High Barrel,  as well as other equipment such as the spine corrector and baby arc along with small props like resistance bands, magic circles, weights and balls. The equipment is spring-loaded, so we can adjust the resistance to suit your needs. It allows for a huge range of movements and adds a whole other dimension to your workout.

• How big are the classes? 

At CPS, group classes are deliberately kept small, usually no more than 4 people in a session. This means everyone gets individualised attention and your instructor can really focus on helping you move well and safely.

We also offer private and duet classes for that extra attention to detail and for anyone that wants to share their workout with a friend or partner. 

• Is Pilates better suited to particular physical types or conditions?

Not at all! Pilates is for every body. It’s incredibly adaptable, whether you’re an elite athlete, recovering from injury, pregnant, managing chronic pain, or just wanting to move and feel better. It’s low-impact and can be scaled to suit your body, ability and goals. Our classes are a mix of ages and gender and everybody is welcome. 

• Are the classes tailored for different skill levels?

The sessions themselves are not aimed at a specific skill level. Your instructor will tailor the class to you specifically. Whether you’re brand new or have years of Pilates experience, we’ll meet you where you’re at. We offer initial consultations and assessments, and from there we tailor a program that suits your needs, so you’re always working at the right level and being gently challenged to improve.

• What sets CPS apart from other studios?

We’re a small, independently owned studio with a strong focus on community and connection. We get to know every client personally and create a warm, welcoming environment where people feel supported and seen. You’re not just another number walking through the door here.

We believe that what happens outside the studio impacts what goes on in your body and we take a wholistic approach to your workout to help you feel your best. 

• What sets it apart from gym classes?

So many things! Firstly, our class sizes are much smaller, which means more hands-on guidance and personalised feedback. Our  equipment is high quality, well maintained and specialised and the atmosphere is calm, focused, and encouraging, without the noise, chaos and intimidation of a gym.

• Safety and hygiene

Safety and cleanliness are top priorities. Equipment is thoroughly cleaned between sessions, and we follow strict hygiene protocols. For our Mums and Bubs classes, the studio is set up to be comfortable, safe and baby-friendly, so new mums can exercise with confidence and ease.

• Are classes designed to progress over time or are they different each week?

Classes are definitely progressive. We build your program based on your goals and needs, and adapt it as you get stronger and more confident. That said, we keep things fresh and varied so you’re never doing the exact same routine week in, week out. Your body and mind stay engaged and your motivation won’t disappear. 

• How can Pilates help me achieve my fitness goals

Pilates is the perfect complement to other activities. It helps balance out the body, improve mobility, build strength in stabilising muscles and prevent overuse injuries. Runners and tennis players often see improved performance and fewer niggles. It’s also fantastic for rehab, especially for lower back pain, joint issues and post-surgery recovery. 

When we work with people with specific skill requirements, be it for golf, dance, boxing or picking up the kids, we work to strengthen the common movement patterns while balancing out the opposite, less used muscles or range of motion. This helps to prevent injuries by preparing the body for the unexpected such as uneven surfaces or sudden stops and maintains happy, healthy joint range of motion. 

• How often do you need to go to classes to see or feel an improvement?

You’ll likely feel a difference after just a few sessions, especially in posture and body awareness. For real results, consistency is key and we suggest 2 to 3 times a week, budget and time permitting. We also give you little take-home exercises if you’re keen to speed things along or need support in between sessions.

• What if I have a disability or specific injury? 

That’s no problem at all. We regularly work with clients who have disabilities or are recovering from injury and surgery. Before starting, we’ll do a full assessment and have a chat about any conditions or concerns, then tailor your program to keep you safe and supported every step of the way.

The studio is wheelchair accessible and there is easy parking available. 

• Are there drop in classes for people visiting Sydney who attend Pilates in their hometown? 

Yes! We love welcoming travellers or interstate clients. If you do Pilates regularly elsewhere, we’ll get you into a class that suits you, and make sure you get the most out of your visit. Just reach out ahead of time so we can book you in.

If you have any other questions we didn’t answer please get in touch through email or our socials. We can’t wait to meet you and get you started.