How to Get Started?

You will need to book in for an initial introduction to Pilates with Sarah. These sessions are offered on a regular basis to introduce you to the basics to allow you to progress to the Newcomers to Pilates group. Contact Sarah to check availability for a convenient time and day for you.

HOW did Pilates with Sarah Payne start?
Sarah’s passion for perfection is evident in everything she does and her Pilates classes are no exception. If you are looking for an introduction to Pilates or want to develop your Pilates practice Sarah can help. Her classes offer small groups limited to a maximum of 8 people in a relaxed environment at her studio at Sheepgate Equestrian, Leverton, near Boston, Lincolnshire. Sarah’s passion for Pilates started in 2008 and her enthusiasm for Pilates has progressed since that time and after suggestions by her own Pilates teacher Angie Appleton, Sarah decided to train to become a teacher with Modern Pilates in 2011. As a riding instructor and dressage trainer for over 20 years, Sarah’s passion for teaching helped her to achieve the Level 3 Diploma in Teaching Matwork Pilates in spring 2012.

What do I need to bring?
Just yourself! All mats and equipment including prickle balls, Chi balls, resistance bands and yoga blocks for seated support will be provided. There is also a water machine in the studio.

What do I need to wear?
Normal gym wear, socks or barefoot.

I have never done Pilates before, what do I need to know?
The ‘Newcomers to Pilates’ sessions are perfect for you to help you learn the basic start positions and exercises in standing, seated, side lying, prone (lying on your tummy)  and supine (lying on your back). You will be introduced to the breathing techniques, the posture you need to adopt before each exercise and you will then be given step by step instructions to guide you through, so no need to panic!

Will I be able to ‘do the exercises’ in my first session?
Pilates is all about layering the information to allow you to start to feel the movements for yourself over a period of time. As with anything new you may have to concentrate more than normal in the beginning but it will be worth it.

I’m nervous of being in a group?
The groups are limited to a maximum of 8 people and are often smaller; the approach is very friendly, informal and relaxed.

I have issues with my back, can I still do Pilates?
You will be given a ‘Pilates with Sarah Payne’ health screening form before your first session to detail any specific issues or restrictions that you may have so that your needs can be catered for in each session. If you have a specific medical issue then it is essential that you have obtained your GP’s consent to start doing Pilates.

I’ve had a hip replacement, can I still do Pilates?
Modern Pilates takes a clinical approach to Pilates so your needs will be catered for in every exercise so that you only perform those that are suitable for your body.