How to find the right Pilates Studio to join

With 2000 Pilates studios, around 7200 gyms and who knows how many independent Pilates teachers in the UK today - how do clients choose the best studio to join?

The Pilates Industry is currently booming - especially in the UK where we have reformer studios popping up everywhere. The clients that see the best results, are the ones that can show up repeatedly for a long time. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a studio:

1. The location

When looking at all the options around you, make sure to choose a studio location that is in your immediate area, like where you live or work, or on a route you regularly use. If you don't have to go out of your way to go to class, you have a better chance of not cancelling when things get busy.

2. The ambience

I always suggest a walk through or a trial class before joining just so that you can explore the environment. What is the studio like? Do you feel welcome, relaxed and a little inspired? Are the lights too bright? Are there too many mirrors? Are there not enough mirrors? What music are they using - is it distracting or enjoyable? There is no wrong or right here - this is personal preferences for you as the client. You want to feel welcomed and engaged and not intimidated and cautious.

3. Price point

Make sure that the studio you use has a class fee or package that works in your budget. This way it can be a long term commitment that you can see real benefits from. There are many ways to practice Pilates and see the benefits. Here is a list from free to a bit more pricy:

• Free YouTube classes - You can find some really great classes online where you can search for a class focus that you want to explore. Like Pilates for back pain, etc.

• Group mat Pilates sessions - You will most certainly find Pilates or Reformer classes at your local gym. A lot of the time these classes can be included in your membership and that gives another few activities to join like weight lifting, cardio or swimming. And don't forget the local community hall - there are wonderful instructors providing classes in community halls all over the country. Another option is to join an online studio where instructors offer either live or recorded group sessions usually with a group or online community you can follow. This is great fun and can be really engaging. And don't think that Mat Pilates stands in the shadow of Reformer. It is a very useful and diversified practice.

• Reformer Group Studios - These are popping up all over the place and it is a really fun way to get stronger and more supple. They usually offer drop ins, class packs and memberships. You can choose between studios with only a few reformers in a class or large group studios with lots of reformers in each class. Have a good look around before deciding, because there are a lot to choose from at the moment. Try and book into an introductory session or beginner class package, because there are quite a few new skills to learn before you will move like a pro in the popular dynamic reformer classes.

• Private or small group Pilates Sessions - Private Pilates sessions are the most costly, but also the best if you are dealing with an injury, special condition (like arthritis, pregnancy or back pain) or if you are starting exercise after a long period of not doing any movement. Joining another client or two in a small group will have a different price. Depending on your needs you can look for a Pilates teacher that has done additional training in what your postural needs are. You can do Private sessions online from home or in a studio that offers these. Usually you can choose a time that works in your schedule - and this is important - so that you can make a long term habit out of attending.

4. The Teacher

Once you have decided on your class location, and your introductory package, I always suggest clients do class with different teachers to get to know everyone before settling into a regular class routine. (Except if you have a special condition - then stick with the teacher with the expertise in this field.) Classes can be vastly different due to all the different training schools and it is good to experience some of the options to see what is on offer. I often find the clients choose their Pilates teachers like they choose their friends - someone with a similar outlook on life or sense of humour. And there is nothing wrong with that. But also see that you agree with their teaching methodology and their approach to the work. It needs to feel safe, encouraging and fun.

But at the end of the day the classes are about you, your progress and your needs. Before booking in, have a serious look at yourself. What is your commitment level?

Before joining be honest with yourself - what is your intention in joining classes? Are you just curious and want to try something for fun? Do you want to join your friend in an activity? Do you need intervention into your lifestyle and see some serious results? Once you know your reason for joining it might be easier to cut through the noise and find the studio or teacher that will work best for you.

Pilates instructors have become really well qualified in a very competitive market. You can find people with a myriad of skills. There are teachers that are also life coaches, nutritionists and all sorts. It is worth thinking about your needs and then joining a studio, class or program that can bring you the results you want.