What do I need to bring?
Nothing apart from yourself and clothing! We provide mats, blocks, belts and all other equipment that may be needed. Please feel free to bring your own mat, a towel and water bottle if you wish.

How do I pay?
We accept card payments and cash at the studio. Bank transfers and telephone payments also available.

What do I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely without getting in the way. Gym wear or shorts/joggers and tee-shirt is ideal. 

Would I be better off doing Pilates or Yoga?
That depends on your condition and your aims in fitness, health and well-being. Some people find they take more readily to one discipline than the other. Give them both a try and see what works best for you.

Can I do Yoga and/or Pilates if I am pregnant or have just had a baby?
Yes - both can be very beneficial. See the Pre and Post Natal page for more information.

Do I have to start at the beginning of term?
No, our classes run all year round and you can start at anytime.

Who can do Yoga and Pilates?
Everyone. You start from where you are, and do what you can. At BoCo we will take into account your condition, advise you what level of class to take, and we can customise practice for you. With our small class size, our teachers will be able to adapt your instruction within a class according to your needs and capabilities. Individual classes can also be arranged to suit you absolutely. 

Isn't Yoga and Pilates only for young and fit people?
No - yoga is for all ages - our members range in age from their teens to their 70s and 80s. No matter how old or how fit you are, you can increase the strength and flexibility of your body.

Can I do Yoga and/or Pilates if I have an injury or back pain? 
Yes. Both yoga and pilates can be helpful in recovering from injury or easing a chronic condition such as back pain. Be sure to speak to your teacher, so that she can allow for your condition. Don't expect miracles, but care and persistence usually produces results. We believe in a holistic approach to your health, and work closely with medical practitioners and therapists where necessary. See Yoga Articles for some success stories.

Will there be pressure to keep up with the other people in the class?
Not at all. We are not a competitive studio - you work at your own pace. Speak to the teacher if you are new and they will do their best to ensure you understand how to move mindfully and that you don't try to do too much.

Will I have to do those frightful Yoga contortions?
Not until you want to give them a go :)! You cannot expect, and will not be expected, to achieve full poses from the outset. There are preparatory postures, and less extreme variants, to work towards as you progress. And you will. You (and we) will have a lot of fun in the process. Each position has its aims in developing your body and mind. They are progressive, and we will explain what the postures do for you and why. 

There are excellent illustrations and descriptions of postures in the Yoga Journal. BoCo Yoga & Pilates has no formal links with the Yoga Journal, but we think it's an excellent resource for practical advice on yoga.

Have you any tips for exercises between classes?

Yes! Try these easy but effective exercises from Karin.

Will I have to worship the Sun God and chant 'OM' in a Yoga class?
No! There is a sequence of postures known as the 'sun salutation,' but that is as good a description as any for what is an excellent set of healthy dynamic stretches, particularly for the back. You may be invited to hum a sound, but that is with the aim of understanding and evenly controlling your outward breath, tuning into your voice box and nasal passages and, well – getting a buzz! We are teachers of yoga, not priestesses. All chanting is completely optional.

Will I have to be strapped in to a Pilates machine?
Not at BoCo! We focus on mat-work and use some simple equipment that is provided.