If you’ve ever thought about starting Yoga or Pilates, now is the perfect time!

Book in for a Beginners Yoga, Mat Pilates, or Reformer Pilates class this week at our City Centre, Ballincollig, or Carrigaline studios!

We have classes designed specifically for people who have never done yoga or Pilates before and are looking for expert, personalised support in a welcoming environment. Over the last 14 years, we’ve guided thousands of beginners through their first yoga classes, and now we’re delighted to offer that same warm welcome to those starting their Pilates journey—whether it’s Mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates.

So many of our regular clients began with one beginner-friendly class and found a long-term practice they love. Our experienced teachers are here to support you every step of the way, whether you’re stepping onto the mat for a gentle yoga flow or trying your very first Pilates reformer class. There’s no pressure to be flexible, strong, or experienced—just bring your curiosity and we’ll do the rest.

Mat Pilates is available at all three of our Cork studios, while Reformer Pilates is offered in our dedicated South Mall space, under our sister brand, ālaya Pilates. These classes are perfect if you’re looking to build strength, improve posture, or feel more connected to your body.
Whether you’re starting yoga, Pilates, or both—we’re here to help you feel confident, safe, and inspired!

Got questions before you roll out a mat?

Here are a few common questions to help you feel confident and excited about joining your first yoga class.

What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient healing science that originated thousands of years ago in India and has gained global popularity due to its countless positive effects of the mind and body.Yoga currently benefits more than 15 million people around the world. In short yoga is a way to improve the health of the mind & body and balance all of the systems.

When you join a yoga class with us you will begin with some simple pranayama breathing excesses that are designed to regulate the nervous system and bring clarity and calm, this is followed by warm ups that bring synovial fluid to the joints and nourishes the connective tissues and then you practise the yoga poses called asanas which improve strength, flexibility and balance followed by a closing relaxation period called savasana.

Yoga is a holistic science designed to connect the body and mind though these simple and easy to do methods. Yoga will bring mental and physical strength and flexibility in equal measures. Yoga is not a religion and people of all faiths and beliefs benefit greatly from it. Yoga is for everybody!

What are the benefits of Yoga?

People get pretty excited about yoga and there are grounds for that excitement! People fall in love with yoga for lots of reasons but basically it makes you feel great- mentally, physically and emotionally. Yoga speaks to the individual on a holistic level through the union of mind, body and breath. Here are some of the reasons people keep coming back to their mats.

Yoga:

reduces anxiety and stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system
lowers cortisol levels
improves flexibility and strength
develops core strength
improves lower back health
improves discipline
builds confidence through achievement
increases concentration through focus
encourages sound sleep
increases fitness levels
increases immunity
decreases blood pressure
improves mood and concentration
stabilizes the autonomic nervous system
improves posture
endocrine function normalizes
respiratory rate decreases
promotes joint & connective tissue health
improves respiratory and cardiac function

Ok I want to try Yoga - where do I go from here?

If you are completely new to yoga we recommend joining our “Yoga for Beginners” class. This class is designed to help you create healthy habits and a strong foundation as you move forward in your practice. Beginners classes take place throughout the week in our Ballincollig studio-you can view the live schedule here. Click on the purple register button on that page to create an account, sign up to a membership or purchase a single or 5 class pass and then proceed to book your class.

If you have any questions you can always drop us an email with your query or contact us on the Live Chat.

Our team look forward to welcoming you to our centre soon!

Your First Class

Please bring your own filled water bottle and yoga mat to class and wear comfortable clothes. We encourage you to bring your own props but we also have mats and props available if you prefer. If you wish to use a bolster, please bring a pillowcase as a bolster cover to use during your practice

Please arrive 10 minutes before class and let your teacher know if you have any injuries or medical conditions.

Enjoy your first class!

Can anyone do Yoga?

Absolutely! Yoga is for everybody – it is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels to increase their health irrespective of body type, age, flexibility or shape.

There are many different options available within each yoga posture that will suit everyone. Many people think you need to be flexible to take part in a yoga class, this is not the case- a great yoga teacher will always have a range of levels available to their students. Whilst your flexibility and strength will increase from a regular yoga practice it is not a prerequisite to begin.

Yoga is also a wonderful complimentary practice for those who go to the gym, run or have a strong workout routine as it utilizes muscles in the body in a three dimensional way that no other exercise does to support existing fitness routines. We have a lot of crossfit members, GAA players, runners and athletes attend our studio. We have a class for everyone and we wholeheartedly encourage diversity at our centre through accessible teachings.

But what if I can't do it?

Yoga is a non competitive practice that we encourage students to practice with compassion and kindness to the self.

Our teachers are trained to offer many levels within each posture so the student can always access a part of the pose whilst working towards the full expression. We also have props which can assist students in deepening their practise safely under the guidance of our expert team.

There is no such thing as a perfect posture we are always growing. You never need to compare yourself with others. This is a wonderful aspect of yoga- we can always develop further and so we learn to appreciate where we are at all times.

Your practice will evolve and change and it is perfect because it is unique to you! Our teachers will certainly challenge you and guide you in relation to correcting alignment and deepening postures. They will help you to make progress relative to you as an individual.

Will I have to buy lots of things to get started?

All you need to bring to a class is a yoga mat and bottle of water. Wear comfortable clothes (the kind you might wear to go for a brisk walk) and you are ready to go. If you wish to invest more in your practice we encourage you to buy your own props but we also have mats and props available if you prefer. If you wish to use a bolster, please bring a pillowcase as a bolster cover to use during your practice.

What about us guys?

For guys who worry that yoga is for girls, fear not! Approximately a third of our students are men and you will find plenty of other guys here at the studio and in your classes. We have men from the armed forces, sports people and plenty of runners who attend.

There are also lots of guys at the studio looking to regain their health after time away from being active. Some of our most dedicated students are guys who have started their yoga journey with us (sometimes suspiciously…) and found strength, flexibility, focus and a positive challenge at our classes.

I am pregnant-what classes can I join?

If you are pregnant, you are strongly advised to only take our Gentle Glow and Restore and Revive classes for health and safety reasons of the baby and Mother. Yoga during pregnancy is contraindicated for first trimester. The highest risk for miscarriage occurs in the first trimester, as this is the time of embryo implantation and attachment of the placenta to the uterus. Rest and relaxation is best during this time until energy levels have returned to normal which usually happens during the second trimester. If you are unsure, ask your doctor. Clients who suspect they may be pregnant are strongly advised to seek medical advice before booking a class. Our priority is always the safety and wellbeing of our clients.

Curious about Reformer or Mat Pilates?

Whether you're starting fresh or returning to movement, these answers will help you step into your first class with ease.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a low-impact, full-body exercise method that focuses on strengthening the core, improving posture, flexibility, and balance. It’s suitable for all levels and is a fantastic way to build strength from the inside out.

Where are Mat and Reformer Pilates classes held?

Mat Pilates is available in all three of our Cork studios: City Centre, Ballincollig, and Carrigaline. Reformer Pilates takes place in our dedicated Reformer Studio at 52 South Mall.

Is Pilates suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! Our Mat Pilates classes are perfect for beginners and focus on building strength, alignment, and confidence. If you're new to Reformer, we recommend starting with a Fundamentals class designed specifically for first-timers.

Which level should I start with in Reformer Pilates?

Start with Fundamentals if you’re new to the reformer. If you’ve had some experience and feel confident, Level 1 is a great next step. Not sure where to begin? Our team is happy to guide you.

How long are classes?

Most Reformer Pilates classes run for 50 minutes, and Mat Pilates classes are 60 minutes. We also offer 45-minute early morning and lunchtime Reformer sessions. Please arrive a few minutes early—especially if it’s your first class.

Can I do Pilates if I’m recovering from injury or postnatal?

Mat Pilates may be suitable if you’re postnatal or recovering from injury—with clearance from your healthcare provider. However, our Reformer Pilates classes are not currently suitable for pregnancy or specific rehabilitation needs. Please speak to your doctor before attending class.

What should I wear or bring to class?

Wear comfortable, fitted clothes that let you move freely. Grip socks are required for Reformer classes. Bring a bottle of water—everything else is provided.

What’s the difference between Mat and Reformer Pilates?