Pilates

for everyone

Empowering strength, balance, and well-being for all ages, abilities and health journeys.

About Alison pilates

Welcome to Alison Pilates Reformer and Mat Studio!

Our studio is a supportive and inclusive space where individuals of all ages, abilities, and health backgrounds can experience the benefits of Pilates. Whether you're managing a chronic condition, recovering from an injury, or seeking mental well-being, we're here to support your journey toward improved strength, flexibility, and overall health.

In class, my focus is on precision of movement and technique. Once you have mastered the technique, you learn to use your muscles in all daily activities, hence increasing your overall fitness. 

I’ve purpose-built my Studio to provide training in small groups:

  • Up to six people on Pilates Reformer.

  • Up to six people on a Pilates Mat.

  • 1:1 or 1:2 class.

  • 1:1 Pilates Therapy

Also, if you want to train with your friends, you can book the whole Studio – contact me to discuss.

Reformer & Mat Classes

What is a Pilates Reformer?

The Pilates reformer is a specialised piece of exercise equipment designed to enhance the practice of Pilates by using springs, leverage, and body weight to provide resistance during movements that focus on specific muscle groups.

One of the key features that sets the reformer apart is its versatility in positioning. The reformer consists of a flat, cushioned platform called a carriage that moves along tracks within a frame, with adjustable springs to vary the intensity of exercises. It also includes a footbar, straps, and handles, enabling users to perform various exercises in various positions, such as lying down, kneeling, sitting, standing on the reformer, or even standing beside it. This adaptability allows for a more functional and upright exercise approach, which improves strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination and supports overall body conditioning.

The Reformer provides gentle resistance and support, helping you move with greater ease and confidence. The emphasis is on learning how to move well—improving alignment, developing body awareness, and gently strengthening your body from the inside out.

What class types do you offer?

We offer a range of classes tailored to meet you where you are:

  • Beginners Reformer Class: Ideal for those new to Pilates or returning after a health-related break.

  • General Reformer Class: For individuals with some experience seeking to build on their practice.

  • Intermediate Class: Designed for seasoned practitioners aiming to deepen their Pilates journey.

  • Prenatal Pilates: Gentle and nurturing classes focused on supporting your body throughout pregnancy, helping you stay comfortable, strong, and confident.

  • Postnatal Pilates: Supportive sessions tailored to assist your postpartum recovery, rebuilding strength, improving posture, and enhancing overall well-being.

  • Pilates for Over 75s: Gentle, effective classes to boost strength, balance, and mobility, helping you maintain independence and confidence in everyday life.

  • Men’s Pilates: Tailored specifically for men, these sessions focus on flexibility, core strength, injury prevention, and improving overall physical resilience.

Our instructors provide modifications and support to accommodate various health conditions and fitness levels.

Pilates on another level! It’s all about mastering the technique in Alison’s classes. With her clear and precise instructions I have learned that it’s actually harder than you think!  I always come away feeling like I’ve toned my whole body, am more relaxed and feeling ready for the day. I would totally recommend you try it.

Amanda

EXPLORE PILATES classes

Having not done Pilates before, I felt very confident with Alison coaching me. She guided me step by step through the class,  ensuring at each point that I held the right pose so I got the most from the class. I definitely felt energised after her class and that it was beneficial. I’ve even referred her to another friend as I thought she was just what was needed.

— Melanie

meet ALISON

I moved to Salisbury two years ago after retiring from a long career in public services. During those 30 years, I was an avid runner, participating in both short and long distances, including marathons and I even managed an ultra Marathon. Pilates improved my running performance - it helps me stand tall in running. It also helps combat fatigue.

I have personally practised Pilates for 35 years. In 2019, I became a certified instructor to teach Pilates in my retirement. I got distracted between 2019 and 2023, establishing and running a Web3 startup and didn’t teach as much as I wanted.

Since moving to Salisbury, I’ve started teaching more frequently, teaching Pilates Mat and Reformer in various locations, and this year have taken the big step to set up my Studio, putting more of my ideas and learning into practice. 

In July 2024, Alison Pilates Studio was created. 

When I’m not teaching Pilates in my Studio, I teach at Platinum Skies Retirement Community - supporting older people to increase their stability. You can also find me teaching Mat Pilates at Five Rivers on a Tuesday evening and Saturday mornings.

And when I am not teaching pialtes I am a Non-Executive Director for a Mental Health Trust, and a Children’s Charity, and I continue to support the Web3 company I cofounded in 2019. 

Pilates has been a cornerstone of my well-being, aiding me through various life stages and health challenges. At Alison Pilates, I aim to extend this support to others, providing a nurturing environment where individuals can find strength, balance, and healing through movement.

Joseph Pilates age 57 and 82

Joseph Pilates, pictured here age 57 and 82, the visionary behind the Pilates method, dedicated his life to improving physical fitness through mindful movement and controlled exercises.

The Creation of the Pilates Reformer

At the outbreak of World War I, the British interned Joseph Pilates as a German enemy alien. He used his time as an internee to start developing a new approach to exercise and body conditioning – the start of what is known today as Pilates.

During his internment, he also got the chance to work as a nurse. This, in turn, gave him the chance to experiment by attaching springs to hospital beds, so that patients could start toning their muscles even while they were still bed-bound. Such were the origins of the first Pilates machines now known as the Pilates reformer. In its early incarnation, the Pilates reformer was shaped like a sliding bed and used springs as resistance.

At Alison Pilates, I honor his legacy by creating an inclusive environment that welcomes individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, the classes in the Studio are designed to help you achieve greater balance, strength, and flexibility.

Join me to experience the transformative power of Pilates and Pilates Reformer in a supportive Studio.

I believe pilates can support everyONE

to be strong, balanced and bold