New to Pilates
New to Pilates? You're in exactly the right place.
Whether it's been a while since exercise was a regular part of your week, or you're just curious to try something new — WELCOME. Esse Pilates was built for people at the start of their Pilates journey, not just those who've already got it figured out. Come and find out what all the fuss is about — and the community of friendly faces you'll be doing it alongside.
What does Pilates actually do for you?
Physically, Pilates builds strength, improves posture, and helps with balance, flexibility and coordination. Regular practice eases everyday stiffness and makes ordinary things — getting up off the floor, carrying shopping, standing up straight without thinking about it — feel easier.
But most people who stick with Pilates will tell you it's not really about any of that. It's about how it makes you feel. Stronger, yes — but also calmer, more capable, more like yourself. For many people, it becomes the one hour in their week that's just for them — a chance to reconnect with their body instead of just dragging it through the day.
Come for the exercise. Stay for how it makes you feel.
Do I need to be fit, strong or flexible to start?
Not at all — you're welcome exactly as you are, whatever "as you are" looks like right now. Pilates is low-impact, and most of our classes are suitable for complete beginners, as long as you don't have any major injuries, haven't recently had surgery, and aren't more than 16 weeks pregnant.
I've never done Pilates before — where do I even start?
That's exactly what our Foundation Classes are for (details coming soon). You'll get "hands-on" with each type of equipment — Reformer, Tower, Wunda Chair and mat — and learn the core Pilates principles that everything else builds on.
Classes are small on purpose, so you're never just a face in the crowd. There's always room for a bit of individual guidance as you find your feet, ask questions, and build confidence at your own pace.
If the idea of a group class still feels like a step too far right now, that's completely normal — and it's exactly why we offer 1-to-1 sessions too. Our introductory package pairs two 1-to-1 classes with a teacher at a special price, so you can get comfortable with the equipment and the movements at your own pace, with zero pressure, before you ever set foot in a group room.
And honestly - everyone in the room was a beginner once. That's the whole point of starting somewhere.
How often should I come?
Once or twice a week is the sweet spot. Twice usually means you'll notice progress faster, but even once a week makes a real difference — consistency matters more than intensity. As Joseph Pilates put it: "After ten sessions, you will feel the difference; after twenty, you will see the difference; and after thirty, you will have a new body."
Not just a class — a community
Esse isn't just about the hour on the mat or the reformer. It's about the people you get to know along the way — the studio you look forward to walking into, the small wins someone notices before you do. Strength through movement, sure. But also connection, along the way.
Still have questions?
Not sure where to start, or just want to talk it through first? Get in touch — hello@essepilates.co.uk. No question is too small.
We're currently getting the studio ready and expect to open in early October. If you'd like updates as we get closer, along with details of our opening offers, join our waitlist and we'll keep you posted.