Pilates - Steff Affleck

If you want to try reformer, just make sure your instructor is very well trained in teaching Pilates, not just in instructing fitness.
Instructing flows/counting is not the same as teaching Pilates. You can work hard in Pilates without pulsing, feeling the burn, the shakes or using multiple props (balls/weights) at the same time. Props are used in Pilates to find a connection so you learn to use that connection without the need for the prop, not just to add complexity for the sake of it.
Comprehensively trained teachers (ie, those trained to teach all the various apparatus that Joseph Pilates invented, of which the Universal Reformer is one piece) will have trained 500-600 hours in person (not a weekend course, or online).

https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2026/apr/04/reformer-pilates-boom-injuries?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other&fbclid=IwZnRzaAQ97otleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xNzM4NDc2NDI2NzAzNzAAAR7wC0Q8uN7EkzKIAlIr3duvX6Ir4GxU7fZv1s8z2zBiTQC1s0btYy-R57PVUg_aem_w26GEDrbF9TX2Z_NnNQzBw

‘Wild west’ reformer pilates boom is causing rise in injuries, experts warn Lack of regulation for specialist classes leaves UK fitness enthusiasts at risk, say professional bodies

Love teaching teachers and sharing the love for ❤️❤️

Back to school, back to routine…
Maybe it’s time to try Pilates?

Did you know that Joseph Pilates developed a whole system of exercise, and invented many pieces of apparatus in addition to the popular “Universal Reformer.”

I teach Mat classes and 1:1 or duets (with all apparatus) in Rowney Green.

It’s always worth asking about a teacher’s qualifications and experience if you are starting something new.
My Qualifications:
BA(Hons) degree in Physical Education plus PGCE

Full year apprenticeship in contemporary Pilates in 2006

Fully Comprehensive Classical Pilates training (15 full days (100 hours) in person plus 500 hours logged practice) in 2018/19

PPATT (Pilates Professional Advanced Teacher Training)
15 full days in person in Florida plus 400 hours logged teaching practice plus many hours of study in 2022/23.

In between, many hours of CPD training/zoom classes and more study.

Always a student, always learning!

Www.steffaffleck.co.uk

“Not only is health a normal condition, but it is our duty to not only to attain it but to maintain it.” - Joseph Pilates “We retire too early and we die too young . Our prime of life should be in the 70’s and old age should not come until we are almost 100.” - Joseph Pilates #pilatesquote #pilates #joepilates #pilateslife #pilatesteacher #pilatesexercises #pilatesworkout #pilatesinstructor #josephpilates

I knew this fabulous book would come in handy one day…❤️
Legacy Pilates Apparatus

https://www.pilatesswansea.com/post/what-makes-a-pilates-instructor-great

What Makes a Pilates Instructor Great? What will ensure a long and successful career empowering others to move better everyday and feel amazing after your Pilates classes?

Reviews are so appreciated!!

“I struggled getting my core strength back since having children and Steff helped me regain it. I learnt a huge amount about my body and how things are connected, things that I wish I’d known much sooner. I look forward to my 1:1 every week. The progress came much faster than I imagined thanks to Steff’s deep knowledge and attention to detail. She is not only passionate and extremely skilled practising original Pilates but she is fun and tailors the workouts for you. She always challenges me and teaches me new things which I love. If you have been considering Pilates, look no further!”
Zita

Lovely to see the sun and blue skies, along with snowdrops and other bulbs on their way too. #springintheair #pilates #classicalpilates

At Gratz, we often hear the question: “Why Classical Pilates?” It comes from many different people—athletes looking for a new fitness challenge, those unfamiliar with Pilates who want to understand it, and fitness professionals considering expanding their practice. We hear this question from those who have tried or currently teach contemporary Pilates. They are curious. They want to understand what makes special.

We want to share how we answer this question—and hear from you whether you agree or if there’s a better way to say it.

https://www.gratzpilates.com/blogs/pilates-resources/why-classical-pilates-the-unique-benefits-that-set-it-apart