Getting Started
A gentle, personalised beginning to your movement journey
Starting something new can feel both exciting and a little daunting — especially when it comes to your body and wellbeing.
Rob understands this deeply, and that’s why your first step at Gateway to Balance is designed to be calm, supportive, and fully tailored to you.
Your Initial Consultation
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Most new clients begin with a 90-minute Initial Consultation at Rob’s welcoming studio in Coulsdon.
This extended first session allows Rob to really get to know you — your story, your movement patterns, and your goals — so that together, you can build a programme that feels both safe and effective.
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During this session, you can expect:​
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A thoughtful discussion about your medical history, occupation, lifestyle, and what you hope to achieve from your Pilates sessions.
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A postural assessment, to observe how your body supports itself and where it may need more balance or strength.
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A movement assessment, so Rob can understand how your body moves in practice.
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An introduction to fundamental principles and exercises, gently guiding you into the work.
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All personal information you share will be treated with complete confidentiality.
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If you already have significant recent Pilates experience, this session may not be necessary — Rob will discuss that with you in advance.​
What to Bring​
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Everything you need for private sessions is provided at the studio, but please bring:
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A bottle of water
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Any emergency medication you may require (e.g., asthma inhaler, angina spray, or EpiPen)
For online mat classes, Rob will discuss which simple pieces of equipment you may wish to have at home.
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Your comfort and safety are Rob’s priority.
Supporting Your Overall Wellbeing
Pilates offers powerful benefits for strength, stability, and balance — and Rob encourages all clients to complement their sessions with gentle cardiovascular exercise, such as:
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Brisk Walking including Nordic Walking
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Swimming
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Cycling
If you have a current injury or condition
Your safety and wellbeing always come first. If you’re managing an existing condition or recovering from an injury, please consult your medical practitioner before beginning Pilates.
Rob often works in partnership with physiotherapists, osteopaths and other health professionals to ensure your Pilates programme supports — and never conflicts with — your treatment plan.
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Please let Rob know of any changes to your health or ability to exercise before each class or private session.
If you are pregnant
Pilates can be wonderfully supportive during pregnancy — helping to improve posture, strength, and breathing awareness.
However, all pregnant clients should seek approval from their medical practitioner before starting and throughout the pregnancy.
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It’s generally advised to pause exercise between weeks 8–14, and if you’re new to Pilates, Rob recommends beginning in your second trimester.
After giving birth, please wait at least 6 weeks following a natural delivery, or longer after a caesarean, before resuming classes.
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Rob will guide you safely every step of the way.
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What Happens Next
After your Initial Consultation, Rob will discuss the best approach for your ongoing practice. Options may include:
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Regular Online Classes
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A combination of Online Classes and Private Lessons to focus on specific areas using the Pilates Machines
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Occasional Private Lessons with a tailored homework programme to support your progress
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If you plan to join Online Classes, Rob may suggest an additional one-to-one session to ensure you feel confident with the exercises and principles before joining the group.
Ready to Begin?
Your first step toward balance, strength, and greater confidence begins here.
Rob’s welcoming, person-centred approach ensures you’ll feel fully supported — no matter your background, condition, or experience level.
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Contact Rob to book your Initial Consultation and start your journey toward a more balanced and connected you.