Have you ever wanted to try a new sport or fitness class, but chickened out at the last minute because you didn’t know what to expect? Us too. That’s why we created our ‘Beginner’s Guide’ series. It’s a place for us to chat to founders, trainers and business owners throughout the Gold Coast. To find out what to expect, what to bring and (often most importantly) what to wear, we’re going straight to the source.
In this instalment, we chat to Alex Hickey, owner of Burleigh’s most colourful Pilates studio, Peaches. Read on for your beginner’s guide to mat Pilates (the non-boring kind)…
How did you get into Pilates? And when?
I fell in love with Pilates in my early teenage years. I found it was an awesome form of movement that helped my body and mind to really work together as a team.
What do you love about it?
The main thing I love about Pilates is how STRONG it can be. Funnily enough, even though I’ve been doing Pilates for years, I still find a spicy class very challenging.
Who should try Pilates?
Pilates is for everyone, every gender, human, age, fitness level. Pilates is something that benefits everyone, particularly if you are engaged in other sports or fitness – Pilates helps surfers, runners and athletes with stabilisation and a strong-arse core (and PEACH).
What equipment do you need to bring? And what should you wear?
What equipment do you need to bring? And what should you wear?You don’t need to bring anything except some grip socks. We sell super cute ones in the studio! Everything else is covered – mats, props and we have a filtered water dispenser. Activewear is advised, and you can wear whatever kind you like. Make sure you feel comfortable and ready to move!
How many times per week should you do it in order to see results/improvement?
Consistency is key. We have unlimited and twice-weekly memberships as well as class packs. At the end of the day, it is up to the individual. If you could commit to even three Peaches classes a week, you’d notice and feel a difference.
Please note: You may want to come every day, and you can – we are open seven days a week!
Is it social?
Absolutely! The best part of Burleigh Peaches is the epic community. The pre- and post-class chats, the welcoming and inclusive vibes, the bright artwork and plants all make this space feel like a second home. We also have various workshops and events throughout the year. Follow our Instagram to keep up to date with these!
How much experience is needed before the first class/session?
Nada. Zip. Zero. There are options for all fitness levels, and it isn’t an intimidating space. If you need a sign to start, this is it!
What are the long-term benefits?
Better posture, increased body awareness, strong body and mind, self-confidence and increased mental, physical and social wellbeing!
What would you say to someone who is interested in Pilates, but scared to try it for the first time?
I have two things that I say to myself whenever I am feeling afraid to try something new… Perhaps they will help someone else?
The first one is something my father taught me from a young age. He always said that ‘FEAR’ stands for ‘False Expectations Appearing Real.’
The second is something I always think about. Humans are ‘born to survive’, so it’s ingrained in us to focus on the worst-case scenario – it’s a survival mechanism. But we can flip that on its Peach and say, “What is the best that could happen?”.
