In a fitness industry dominated by group classes and bootcamps, there’s something countercultural about private training. It might seem indulgent or unnecessary. But when it comes to Pilates—particularly Reformer Pilates—the case for one-to-one instruction isn’t just strong; it’s compelling.
Your Body Is Unique
This might seem obvious, but it’s worth stating: no two bodies are the same. You have your own injury history, postural patterns, strengths, weaknesses, and movement habits. A one-size-fits-all approach simply can’t address your specific needs.
In a group class, the instructor might have 10 or 15 people to supervise. Even with the best intentions, they can’t provide individualised attention to each person. Exercises are standardised, modifications are general, and subtle compensations go unnoticed.
In a private session at InnerCore, every single exercise is chosen specifically for you. Your instructor isn’t dividing their attention between multiple clients—they’re completely focused on your movement quality, your alignment, and your progress.
Real-Time Feedback and Correction
One of the most valuable aspects of 1to1 Pilates training is the immediate feedback you receive. Your instructor can see when you’re recruiting the wrong muscles, holding unnecessary tension, or compensating for a weakness elsewhere in your body.
These details matter enormously. The difference between an exercise that strengthens your core and one that strains your back might come down to a small adjustment in pelvic position or where you’re initiating the movement from. In a group setting, these nuances are easily missed.
Our instructors in Chelsea have the expertise to spot these patterns and the time to correct them on the spot. Over weeks and months, this attention to detail creates lasting changes in how you move, both on the reformer and in daily life.
Progressing at Your Own Pace
Group classes move at the pace of the group. If you’re new to Pilates, you might feel rushed or confused. If you’re more advanced, you might not feel adequately challenged. Either way, you’re not getting the most from your practice.
With private instruction, the session moves at your pace. If you need to spend more time on breathing technique or understanding a particular movement pattern, that’s exactly what happens. If you’re ready for more complex exercises, your programme evolves accordingly.
This individualised pacing means you’re always in that sweet spot between too easy and too challenging—the zone where real learning and adaptation occurs.
Addressing Specific Goals and Concerns
Perhaps you’re recovering from a back injury. Maybe you’re preparing for a marathon and want to improve your core strength and running efficiency. Or you might be managing a chronic condition that requires specific modifications.
Whatever your circumstances, a tailored programme designed by an experienced instructor will be far more effective than a generic class. At InnerCore, we take detailed health histories and design programmes that address your unique situation. This level of customisation simply isn’t possible in a group environment.
The Mind-Body Connection
Pilates is as much about body awareness and mindfulness as it is about physical strength. This deeper connection between mind and body develops most effectively when you have the space and guidance to really tune into what you’re feeling.
In the quiet, focused environment of a 1to1 session, you can hear your instructor’s cues more clearly, notice subtle sensations in your body, and develop that internal awareness that makes Pilates so transformative. You’re not comparing yourself to others or feeling self-conscious—you’re simply present with your practice.
Investment vs. Expense
Private sessions cost more than group classes—there’s no getting around that. But consider what you’re actually investing in: faster progress, reduced injury risk, proper technique from the start, undivided professional attention, and a programme designed specifically for your goals.
When you factor in the results you can actually feel—not just see—the value becomes clear. Many of our clients find that an hour of private instruction gives them more benefit than several group classes would.
Experience the Difference
If you’ve only tried Pilates in group settings, you haven’t experienced what the practice can truly offer. At InnerCore, we invite you to discover the difference that private, expert instruction makes. Your first session is free, giving you an opportunity to experience our approach and understand why so many people choose one-to-one training as their primary fitness practice.
Working from the inside out requires attention, expertise, and individualisation. That’s what you get with every session at our boutique studio in Chelsea, London.
