FAQ
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing which doesn't restrict your movement, but that is not too baggy that I can’t assess your alignment.
Bare feet or socks?
Either bare feet or clean socks are fine. But please do not attend a class barefoot if you have verrucas or similar foot complaints. Toe socks with grippy feet are a great alternative to regular socks as they allow for more movement. They are also fantastic if you suffer from cold feet. You can find a link to them on my equipment page. If you need to keep your shoes on for any reason, this is also fine and would be preferable to not attending a class.
Do I need a mat or any equipment?
Please bring an exercise mat with you to class. I will bring other small equipment with me. As you become familiar with the corrective exercises and the idea of bolstering, you may wish to bring your own cushion or blanket for comfort and convenience. Much of the equipment we use in class can be easily purchased or repurposed for practice at home, you can use a rolled towel or book in place of a half dome and a belt in place of a yoga strap. Please don’t let a lack of equipment become a barrier to exercise. On the other hand if a nice new half dome in your favourite colour helps to keep you motivated, please feel free to ask me for equipment recommendations :) You will find links to some of the equipment used in class here.
I usually carry a few spare mats with me, so if you would like to try a class before committing to a purchase, this is also no problem. Just let me know before hand.
How many people are in a class?
Classes sizes will vary depending on the time and location but are restricted to a maximum of 12 people.
What is a class or session like?
On the surface, a restorative exercise class looks a bit like a yoga or Pilates class, with each student with a mat and a few props, following the instructions of the teacher. It is not a high-intensity cardiovascular workout, but rather a series of slow and careful movements, emphasising the use of the correct musculature within proper ranges of motion.
I have an injury or health condition, is Restorative exercise suitable for me?
Restorative exercise is generally appropriate for any age and fitness level, and it can be adapted to suit most bodies. It can also be beneficial for many common health conditions, however, if you have any injury or health issue that might affect your ability to exercise, including pregnancy or postnatal, please email me before hand so that I can ascertain if joining a group class would be the best option for you. In some cases I might recommend private sessions before joining a class. All clients will be asked to complete a health screening form before attending classes and will be advised to consult with a medical practitioner if they have any undiagnosed pain.
It is important to note that although I am a fully qualified movement teacher, I am not medically trained. Diagnosing or prescribing exercises for an injury or health condition for a would be beyond the scope of my practice. I can however teach you exercises that can improve your alignment, balance and co ordination, strengthen your body and address any muscular imbalances. I can help you understand and overcome some of the common adaptations are bodies are making to modern day living, and hopefully inspire and empower you to embrace movement on your journey to health and wellbeing.
Can I book a class for my child or bring my child with me?
I do not take children in my classes, either to participate or observe, and I do not market my classes to children for insurance and safeguarding reasons. Katy has some great resources for moving with children and ways to move more as a family on her website I highly recommend you take a look.