Upcoming Events

Pilates Contrology Launched at Goodwood Health & Wellbeing

22nd November 2024

Goodwood Health & Wellbeing is delighted to introduce Pilates Contrology to its diverse range of health and wellbeing offerings and expertise. From 1 December 2024, expert practitioners Dee Bodle and Rafael Gomes will open the doors to the Pilates Contrology suite, providing a unique opportunity to experience the authentic teachings of Joseph Pilates, blending tradition with innovation within the Goodwood Health Club.

Learn more about Pilates and its benefits in our article below.

Health & Wellbeing
Health and Wellbeing
pilates

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What is Pilates?

Pilates is a low-impact exercise method designed to enhance strength, flexibility and overall body balance. Originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, the wellbeing practice focuses on controlled movements that engage deep abdominal muscles, supporting posture and improving functional fitness.

What is Pilates Contrology?

Unlike modern Pilates methods, Pilates Contrology stays true to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates. As Dee Bodle explains, “Contrology reflects the authentic, traditional system handed down directly from Joseph Pilates. We use equipment similar to Reformer Pilates that is inspired by his designs, some of which resemble the circus and hospital apparatus he initially worked with.”

Rafael Gomes adds, “Joseph Pilates was afflicted with rickets as a child and took up exercise to help with this. He soon realised that using weights alone wasn’t going to be enough so he designed a method to improve his own flexibility and strength borrowing training approaches from swimming, boxing, and circus acrobatics to formulate the programme. He observed how animals move too and so, even today, our movements reflect the crab, the monkey, the squirrel, and the elephant.”

The Health Benefits of Pilates

Pilates offers benefits that cater to individuals of all fitness levels, including:

Improved core strength - The movements activate deep abdominal muscles that work to stabilise and support the spine.
Enhanced flexibility – Through developing a practice, the range of motion in joints is increased, reducing stiffness and discomfort.
Better posture – guided exercises encourage alignment and balance, reducing the risk of chronic pain.
Rehabilitation and recovery - Bringing Pilates into a rehabilitation programme can contribute towards recovery after surgery or injury with gentle, controlled movements.
Stress reduction and overall wellbeing – Movements are combined with mindful breathing, which activates the parasympathetic nervous system to promote mental clarity and relaxation.

Can anyone do Pilates?

One of the standout features of Pilates and Pilates Contrology is its adaptability. Whether you're a beginner, a professional athlete, someone recovering from surgery, or with a chronic condition, Pilates can be tailored to suit your needs. Rafael emphasises, “There’s something for everyone in our classes at the Goodwood Health Club. Our knowledge, experience, and flexibility in teaching allow us to adapt to all levels of fitness and suitability, even in a small group setting.”

What Makes Goodwood’s Pilates Contrology Unique?

Pilates Contrology at Goodwood is led by Dee and Rapha who are third-generation teachers, meaning that they have been taught by teachers who were, in turn, taught by Romana Kryzanowska who was taught by Joseph Pilates himself.

Their expertise is supported by a studio equipped with specialised apparatus, including Pilates Reformers for small group use and other pieces of equipment to help develop the body on an individual basis such as the Cadillac, barrels, the Wunda Chair, Electric Chair, the Pedi-o-Pole and the Magic Circle as well as mat-based exercises.

Getting Started with Pilates at Goodwood

Dee & Rapha will be offering both group and private sessions at Goodwood Health Club, allowing participants to choose the format that best suits their preferences and goals. Private sessions are ideal for first-timers or those with specific needs, while group classes promise a full-body workout and a supportive, fun environment.

Bookings are now open, with group sessions priced at £30 and private sessions at £75. To reserve a place, visit Goodwood Health & Wellbeing Reception at The Goodwood Hotel, call 01243 520114, or email wellbeing@goodwood.com.

Find out more about membership at Goodwood Health & Wellbeing.