Frequently Asked Questions

Pilates: Benefits, Uses, and Who It’s For

Pilates is a low-impact, full-body exercise method that improves strength, flexibility, posture, and overall movement quality. It uses controlled movements, core activation, and structured breathing to support both physical and mental well-being.

Pilates is suitable for beginners, older adults, athletes, and people recovering from injury, as exercises can be adapted to different fitness levels and needs.

What Are the Physical Benefits of Pilates?

Pilates improves core strength and spinal stability by strengthening the deep muscles of the abdomen, back, and pelvis. A stronger core supports better posture and reduces unnecessary strain during movement.

Pilates increases flexibility and joint mobility through slow, controlled movements that maintain alignment and stability. This helps improve range of motion without placing stress on the joints.

Pilates supports injury prevention and rehabilitation by correcting muscular imbalances and improving movement patterns. Its low-impact nature makes it appropriate for people managing pain or returning to exercise after injury.

Pilates improves posture and body alignment by increasing awareness of how the body holds and moves itself. This can help reduce tension in the neck, shoulders, and lower back.

Pilates develops lean muscle tone and muscular endurance by strengthening muscles through their full range of motion. This results in functional strength without excessive muscle bulk.

What Are the Mental Benefits of Pilates?

Pilates strengthens the mind–body connection by requiring focus, precision, and controlled breathing. This improves coordination, balance, and concentration.

Pilates helps reduce stress and mental fatigue by activating the parasympathetic nervous system through slow movement and breath control. Many people report feeling calmer and more focused after practice.

Pilates can improve energy levels by enhancing circulation and oxygen delivery throughout the body, supporting sustained energy across the day.

Is Pilates Good for Beginners?

Pilates is considered one of the most beginner-friendly forms of exercise. Movements can be simplified or progressed depending on experience, strength, and mobility.

Beginners benefit from Pilates because it builds foundational strength, improves body awareness, and reduces the risk of injury when starting a new fitness routine.

Is Pilates Suitable for Group Classes?

Pilates is well suited to small-group and private class formats. Group classes provide structure, motivation, and accountability, while still allowing instructors to offer individual modifications.

Many people find that practicing Pilates in a group setting supports long-term consistency and enjoyment.

Pilates in Wynnum

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates and barre studio located in Wynnum, Brisbane. The studio offers small-group classes focused on strength, mobility, posture, and sustainable movement.

Classes are designed to support a wide range of fitness levels in a calm, supportive environment led by qualified instructors.

Is Pilates Suitable for Beginners?

Pilates is well suited to beginners, including people who are new to exercise or returning after time away. Exercises can be modified to suit different strength, mobility, and confidence levels, making Pilates a safe and effective way to build foundational movement skills.

At Stretch Pilates, beginners are supported from their very first class in a calm, structured environment.

What Beginners Can Expect at Stretch Pilates

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates studio in Wynnum that places a strong emphasis on proper technique, alignment, and controlled movement.

Instructors are trained to guide beginners through the fundamentals of Pilates, including correct posture, breathing, and movement patterns. This helps new clients build strength and flexibility safely while gaining confidence over time.

Beginner Experience in Pilates Classes

Supportive and Welcoming Environment

Beginner Pilates classes are designed to be inclusive and judgment-free. Clients are encouraged to move at their own pace in a space that prioritises comfort and confidence.

Clear Instruction and Modifications

Each exercise is explained step by step. Modifications are offered so movements can be adjusted based on experience level, mobility, or injury considerations.

Small Class Sizes

Small group classes allow instructors to provide individual guidance and feedback, helping beginners learn correct technique and avoid common mistakes.

Gradual Progression

Pilates focuses on steady improvement rather than quick results. Beginners can expect to build strength, mobility, and body awareness gradually over time.

What Is the Best Way to Start Pilates as a Beginner?

Beginners often start with beginner-focused reformer classes or private Pilates sessions. These options allow for a slower pace and more personalised instruction.

At Stretch Pilates, new clients are encouraged to begin with Align classes, which focus on foundational movements, or book a private session for one-on-one guidance.

Beginner Pilates in Wynnum

Stretch Pilates offers beginner-friendly reformer Pilates classes in Wynnum, led by qualified instructors in a supportive studio environment.

Pilates provides a structured, low-impact way to improve strength, mobility, and confidence, making it an effective starting point for long-term movement and well-being.

Booking a class at Stretch Pilates is easy! We have our own App to make managing your bookings quick and convenient.

Booking Options:

• Via Our App (Recommended!):

1. Download the Stretch Pilates App.

2. Create an account or log in and select membership.

3. Browse our class schedule and select your preferred session.

4. Confirm your booking and you're all set!

• Via Our Website:

1. Visit our website and head to the Timetable page.

2. Select your class and follow the prompts to reserve your spot.

3. Receive an instant confirmation via email.

Yes - Our Stretch Crèche offers a safe, supervised playpen space for up to four little ones per session — all within view of the reformers.

This service is perfect for our younger movers (roughly 9 months to 3 years) who may need a little extra support while you stretch.
Sessions available:

• Tuesdays at 9:30am

• Thursdays at 4:30pm

While supervision is provided, please note:

• Parents remain responsible for feeding, changing, or settling their child if needed.

• If a child becomes unsettled for an extended time, we may kindly ask the parent to step away from their class — and if necessary, forgo the remainder of the session — to maintain a calm and comfortable space for all members.

• We recommend bringing a few favourite toys or comfort items to help keep your child happily engaged.

Bookings for the Stretch Crèche are essential and can be made via the Stretch Pilates App.
Please book a spot for each child requiring Crèche care.
Cost: $5 per session.

Details: You'll see the Stretch Crèche listed on our timetable at 9:15am Tuesdays and 4:15pm Thursdays.

Please make sure to book both your class and a separate Crèche spot for each child. (The times are slightly offset due to system limitations around duplicate bookings.)

At Stretch Pilates, space is more than just a physical feature—it’s part of our philosophy. We believe that feeling spacious, calm, and supported is essential to a quality movement experience. That’s why we’ve designed our studio with intentionality, creating a welcoming and peaceful lounge area where every member can transition into their class with ease.

We understand that many of our clients are parents just like us, and we want to make it easier for them to prioritise their wellbeing. That’s why our reception area has been thoughtfully set up to accommodate independent children who are able to sit quietly with a book or device while mum or dad enjoys their session. This option is available to support our families, but it is important that it works in a way that is respectful to everyone in the studio.

Because our classes are intimate, focused, and grounded in mindfulness, it is essential that they are not interrupted. For this reason, the Stretch Pilates team reserves the right to determine whether a child is sufficiently independent to wait in the reception area during a class. Our priority is ensuring that all members can experience their class without disruption and that children in the space are safe, comfortable, and well-suited to this arrangement.

If your child is not yet ready to sit independently, we encourage you to explore our Stretch Crèche option, where supervision can be provided at specific class times.

At Stretch Pilates, we’re here to help you move with freedom—and to support the whole family in the process.

At Stretch Pilates, we know that everyone’s ideal Pilates experience looks different. That’s why we offer our premium On-Demand classes, giving you the freedom to practise in solitude at your convenience, all while enjoying the same beautiful environment and high-quality reformers as our Live Instructor classes.

With more than 40 booking opportunities each week during staffed hours, you can schedule your session at a time that suits you. Our state-of-the-art kiosks connect seamlessly to your Bluetooth headphones, immersing you in a personalised workout with expert instruction. Choose from over 750 classes, tailored to different levels, goals, and styles, so you always have the perfect session at your fingertips.

To ensure you get the most from your On-Demand experience, a basic skill level is required. Our team will guide you through this process, which may involve attending a certain number of group or one-on-one sessions to build essential skills. This helps ensure you can move safely and confidently through your chosen classes.

Enjoy ultimate flexibility and the luxury of a beautiful, peaceful studio at Stretch Pilates Wynnum —where premium quality Pilates fits seamlessly into your life, on your terms.

We understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes things come up that require change to plans. That's why we strive to be as flexible as possible with our cancellation policy.

To ensure fairness for all our members, we ask for a minimum of six hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us the opportunity to offer your spot to someone else who may be waiting. Please note that if cancellation does not occur within this six-hour window, the class credit will be forfeited. We kindly ask for your understanding and respect in upholding this policy so that everyone has the best possible experience at Stretch Pilates.

We get it—unforeseen events happen, and we’ll always do our best to work with you should something come up last minute. Thank you for being mindful and for helping us keep our schedule running smoothly for everyone!

We don’t offer unlimited memberships, with good reason. At Stretch Pilates, we believe in quality over quantity. We’ve designed our membership options to give you the best possible Pilates experience without the frustration and uncertainty of overbooked classes and long waitlists.

Some studios advertise “unlimited” memberships, but personal experience and market research has shown that this format can encourage members to book more classes than they plan to attend. This makes it harder for other committed clients to secure their ideal time slots due to crowded waitlists.

Instead, we focus on delivering top-quality Pilates with consistent availability for our members. Our structure is optimised to ensure that when you want to move, you can normally count on getting a spot without the uncertainty of long waitlists.

With expertly guided instruction and correct form, 3-5 classes per week is enough to see real progress in strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. Stretch Pilates specialises in quality movement, not just volume—and our experienced instructors ensure that each session is truly effective.

For those who love to move every day, we do offer our Stretch membership option, which allows you to attend up to 7 Instructor-Led classes per week. This gives you the consistency of daily practice without the downsides of an “unlimited” model.

Additionally, all our ongoing membership options are enhanced by access to our revolutionary On Demand classes, providing unparalleled flexibility and value to our members.

At Stretch Pilates, our goal is to provide a high-end, results-driven experience where members feel valued, classes are accessible, and every session is worth your time. Come experience the difference for yourself!

With separate men’s and women’s bathrooms available, you’re welcome to arrive early to change into activewear or take a moment to reset before stepping back into your day.

For Pilates, comfort and flexibility are key! We recommend wearing fitted, stretchy clothing that allows you to move freely while keeping your instructor informed of your body alignment and form.

Top Tips for Pilates Attire:

• Fitted, Breathable Clothing – Choose shorts, leggings or bike shorts with a comfortable tank top or t-shirt. Avoid overly loose clothing, as it can get in the way during movements.

• Grip Socks - Many Pilates studios, including Stretch Pilates, require grip socks for hygiene and added stability. They help prevent slipping and improve your control on the mat or reformer.

• Minimal Accessories – Avoid bulky zippers, buttons, or drawstrings, as these can be uncomfortable when lying down or using equipment. It’s also best to remove jewellery to prevent it from getting caught during movement.

• Supportive Undergarments – A comfortable, non-restrictive sports bra is a great option for ladies who need support during class.

Most importantly, wear something you feel good in and can move comfortably in. If you're unsure, feel free to ask us for recommendations before your first class!

At Stretch Pilates, we believe that exceptional Pilates deserves top-quality equipment. That’s why our studio is fitted with world-class reformers designed for comfort, performance, and seamless movement.

Studio Reformers – Our brand-new reformers are premium in design, offering extra width and plush padding for superior support. Sitting 32cm from the ground, they provide an elevated, comfortable experience while allowing for a full range of motion. Every part is sourced from the highest quality commercial-grade materials, ensuring durability and smooth, seamless adjustments throughout your workout.

All classes begin on time, and our studio door is locked at the scheduled start – on the dot. (If a class starts at 9:30am - the door is locked at 9:30am).

For this reason, we ask that you arrive 5–10 minutes early to settle in and prepare for the class you are about to enjoy. Late arrivals will not be admitted once the class has started, as this ensures a safe, calm and focused beginning for all.

Why Pilates Is Used for Injury Recovery

Pilates is considered suitable for injury recovery because it emphasises control, alignment, and balanced strength, rather than high-impact or repetitive loading.

Low-Impact and Joint-Friendly

Pilates exercises are low impact and place minimal stress on the joints. Movements are performed with control, making Pilates appropriate for people managing pain or reduced mobility.

Improved Core Strength and Stability

Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles that support the spine and pelvis. Improved core stability can help support safer movement and reduce strain on injured areas.

Restored Mobility and Flexibility

Pilates encourages gentle, progressive movement that helps restore range of motion while maintaining proper alignment and control.

Supports Rehabilitation Programs

Pilates is often recommended by physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals as a complementary exercise method alongside rehabilitation or recovery plans.

How Pilates Is Adapted for Injury Recovery

Pilates exercises can be modified, simplified, or progressed depending on the individual. This adaptability allows people to work within their comfort level while gradually rebuilding strength and confidence.

At Stretch Pilates, instructors are trained to adjust exercises based on:

• Movement restrictions

• Pain or sensitivity

• Strength and mobility levels

Private Pilates sessions are often used for injury recovery, as they allow for one-on-one guidance and personalised exercise selection.

Important Considerations Before Starting Pilates After Injury

People recovering from injury are encouraged to:

• Speak with a healthcare professional before beginning Pilates

• Inform instructors of any injuries or movement limitations

• Progress gradually rather than rushing into advanced exercises

Pilates is intended to support movement and recovery, not replace medical advice or treatment.

Injury-Aware Pilates in Wynnum

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates and barre studio in Wynnum that offers movement-focused classes and private sessions designed to support strength, mobility, and confidence.

Classes are delivered in a calm, supportive environment with an emphasis on safe technique, controlled movement, and long-term movement health.

Is Pilates Safe During Pregnancy?

Pilates is commonly considered a suitable form of exercise during pregnancy when performed with appropriate modifications and guidance. It focuses on low-impact, controlled movements that support strength, posture, balance, and mobility as the body changes.

Prenatal Pilates programs are typically adapted to support comfort and safety throughout each stage of pregnancy.

Benefits of Pilates During Pregnancy

Pilates is often used during pregnancy because it emphasises stability, breath awareness, and controlled movement, rather than intensity or impact.

Supports Core Strength and Stability

Prenatal Pilates focuses on deep core and pelvic support muscles, which help maintain stability and support posture as the body adapts during pregnancy.

Improves Posture and Body Awareness

As weight distribution changes, Pilates can help improve posture and alignment, reducing unnecessary strain on the lower back, hips, and shoulders.

Encourages Mobility and Balance

Gentle, guided movements help maintain mobility and balance, supporting everyday movement and comfort throughout pregnancy.

Promotes Breath Awareness

Pilates integrates structured breathing, which supports relaxation, movement control, and overall body awareness.

How Prenatal Pilates Is Adapted

Pilates exercises can be modified for each trimester to accommodate changes in strength, balance, and comfort. Movements that involve excessive strain, pressure, or instability are avoided.

At Stretch Pilates, instructors provide pregnancy-appropriate modifications and guidance to ensure exercises remain comfortable and supportive.

Important Considerations Before Starting Prenatal Pilates

People who are pregnant are encouraged to:

• Consult their healthcare provider before starting or continuing Pilates

• Inform instructors of their stage of pregnancy

• Move at a pace that feels comfortable and controlled

Prenatal Pilates is designed to support movement and well-being, not replace medical advice or prenatal care.

Prenatal-Friendly Pilates in Wynnum

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates and barre studio in Wynnum offering pregnancy-aware movement options in a calm, supportive environment.

Classes focus on safe technique, controlled movement, and individual modification to support comfort and confidence during pregnancy.

Is Pilates Used for Rehabilitation?

Pilates is commonly used as a supportive exercise method during rehabilitation following injury or surgery. It focuses on low-impact, controlled movements that help improve strength, mobility, posture, and movement quality.

Pilates is often included alongside rehabilitation or recovery programs because exercises can be modified to suit individual needs and stages of recovery.

How Pilates Supports Rehabilitation

Pilates supports rehabilitation by emphasising core stability, alignment, and controlled movement, rather than high-impact or repetitive loading.

Supports Core Strength and Stability

Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles that support the spine and pelvis. Improved core stability can help support safer movement and reduce strain during recovery.

Restores Movement and Mobility

Pilates encourages gradual, controlled movement that helps restore mobility and functional movement patterns after injury or surgery.

Improves Posture and Alignment

Pilates promotes awareness of posture and alignment, which can be especially important during recovery when compensatory movement patterns may develop.

Encourages Safe Return to Daily Activities

By focusing on precision and control, Pilates helps reintroduce everyday movements in a gradual and structured way, supporting confidence and ease in daily activities.

Can Pilates Be Tailored for Rehabilitation?

Pilates exercises can be adapted and modified to accommodate different injuries, surgeries, pain levels, and movement limitations.

Private Pilates sessions are commonly used during rehabilitation, as they allow instructors to tailor exercises and pacing to the individual.

Pilates is intended to support movement and recovery, not replace medical care or rehabilitation advice.

Who May Benefit From Rehabilitation-Focused Pilates?

Pilates may be suitable for people:

• Recovering from injury or surgery

• Managing chronic pain

• Returning to movement after time away

• Seeking to rebuild strength and mobility safely

People are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional before beginning Pilates as part of a rehabilitation process.

Is Pilates Used for Rehabilitation?

Pilates is commonly used as a supportive exercise method during rehabilitation following injury or surgery. It focuses on low-impact, controlled movements that help improve strength, mobility, posture, and movement quality.

Pilates is often included alongside rehabilitation or recovery programs because exercises can be modified to suit individual needs and stages of recovery.

How Pilates Supports Rehabilitation

Pilates supports rehabilitation by emphasising core stability, alignment, and controlled movement, rather than high-impact or repetitive loading.

Supports Core Strength and Stability

Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles that support the spine and pelvis. Improved core stability can help support safer movement and reduce strain during recovery.

Restores Movement and Mobility

Pilates encourages gradual, controlled movement that helps restore mobility and functional movement patterns after injury or surgery.

Improves Posture and Alignment

Pilates promotes awareness of posture and alignment, which can be especially important during recovery when compensatory movement patterns may develop.

Encourages Safe Return to Daily Activities

By focusing on precision and control, Pilates helps reintroduce everyday movements in a gradual and structured way, supporting confidence and ease in daily activities.

Can Pilates Be Tailored for Rehabilitation?

Pilates exercises can be adapted and modified to accommodate different injuries, surgeries, pain levels, and movement limitations.

Private Pilates sessions are commonly used during rehabilitation, as they allow instructors to tailor exercises and pacing to the individual.

Pilates is intended to support movement and recovery, not replace medical care or rehabilitation advice.

Who May Benefit From Rehabilitation-Focused Pilates?

Pilates may be suitable for people:

• Recovering from injury or surgery

• Managing chronic pain

• Returning to movement after time away

• Seeking to rebuild strength and mobility safely

People are encouraged to consult a healthcare professional before beginning Pilates as part of a rehabilitation process.

Rehabilitation-Focused Pilates in Wynnum

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates and barre studio in Wynnum offering movement-based classes and private sessions designed to support strength, mobility, and long-term movement health.

Instruction focuses on controlled movement, safe technique, and individual modification in a supportive studio environment.

Stretch Pilates is a boutique reformer Pilates and barre studio in Wynnum offering movement-based classes and private sessions designed to support strength, mobility, and long-term movement health.

Instruction focuses on controlled movement, safe technique, and individual modification in a supportive studio environment.

The ideal frequency depends on your goals, but for optimal results, we recommend practicing Pilates 3 to 5 times per week. This allows your body to build strength, improve flexibility, and see real progress without overtraining.

What’s Best for You?

✔ 2-3 Classes Per Week – Great for maintaining overall fitness, improving posture, and reducing stress.
✔ 4-5 Classes Per Week – Ideal for building strength, enhancing flexibility, and seeing faster progress.
✔ Up to 7 Classes Per Week – For those looking to fully commit to their practice, our Stretch Membership allows you to attend up to 14 classes per week.

Quality Over Quantity

In contrast to high-intensity workouts, Pilates is about precision and control, meaning fewer, well-structured sessions can be more effective than rapid, unfocused movement. With expert instruction and premium equipment, every class at Stretch Pilates is designed to give you maximum benefits without the need for excessive repetition and undue stress on the body.

If you're unsure where to start, our team is happy to help you create a schedule that fits your lifestyle and goals!

Yes! While there is no on-site parking at Stretch Pilates Wynnum, you’ll find plenty of free street parking right outside our studio on Clara Street and in the surrounding area. Parking is unrestricted, so you can enjoy your class without worrying about time limits.

For those using public transport, we’re conveniently located near bus stops and Wynnum train station, making it easy to reach us from across the Bayside area.

Need help planning your trip? Get in touch—we’d love to help you find the best way to visit! We service the wider Bayside community, including Wynnum West, Manly, Manly West, Lota, Tingalpa, Gumdale, Chandler, Hemmant, Belmont, Wakerley, Capalaba and Cleveland.