Pilates classes and physiotherapy in Central, Hong Kong

FAQ

General

What is Pilates?

This exercise system utilizing both mat and equipment-based exercises, dramatically and rapidly improves strength, flexibility, posture and overall alignment of the musculature and skeleton without increasing bulk. Pilates also strengthens the "powerhouse"- abdomen, back and buttocks so stabilizing the body and enabling it to move freely. It is an indispensable tool for athletes and unconditioned people alike enabling them to develop coordination, aesthetic form, strength and balanced posture.....READ MORE.

What is Gyrotonic exercise?

This system works to exercise the musculature while mobilizing and articulating joints. The uniqueness of the system is that it stretches and strengthens at the same time thereby increasing range of motion and developing coordination....READ MORE.

What is the difference between Pilates Mat and Yoga (and Gyrotonic Exercise)?

It's important to keep in mind that yoga and Pilates mat classes can vary a lot. For example, a yoga class that focuses on relaxation and stretching probably doesn't have as many strength-building benefits as a more vigorous vinyasa sesh or Intermediate Pilates Mat. That said, poses like warrior two and triangle can help strengthen leg muscles and lower bodies, while arm-balancing poses like side plank and crow can help strengthen arm muscles and upper bodies.

Joseph Pilates exercises Inverted V and Side lift are based on these exact Yoga exercises so Pilates students will be able to draw parallels between the approach of each system. These more demanding moves are an especially efficient way to utilize nearly all of your muscles. As with the Feldenkrais and/or the GYROTONIC(R)systems there are not only parallels to be drawn and similarities to be found but also interesting and diverse approaches that link these modalities such that or clients achieve their fitness goals in a more rounded manner.

Which Mind Body System is right for me, Yoga or Pilates?

There are always differences between different but similar looking methods and it's completely understandable that you, the client, might be confused. One of the significant differences between Pilates and yoga, is that Pilates exercises can be executed either on a Mat or on specially designed Equipment. These two systems, in their own way, focus strongly on improving all aspects of physical fitness (flexibility, strength, posture, muscle tone) and incorporate a strong body/mind integrative component.

Why Iso Fit?

Iso Fit, established in 1998, offers an incomparable range of Pilates and Gyrotonic session types for clients to choose from in order to suit the experience, personal training goals, budget and scheduling requirements of our clients. From our range of equipment, to the quality of our instructors, to our special discount structure, we make exercise at Iso Fit an easy choice! Read more about what makes Iso Fit unique here.

Group vs Studio vs Rehab

Iso Fit offers a range of training options to our clients - there is something for all types of budgets, schedules and health goals. 

Our popular group classes take place in a group environment of a maximum of 12 people (we try to ensure that clients are getting as much personal attention as possible by keeping the group classes small). These classes are run on a set schedule every day, which is published on our website and are a cost effective way of accessing Pilates exercise.

Studio sessions are more focused and tailored to the needs of the client, as these sessions are conducted in a one-on-one or two-on-one format.

Rehabilitation is conducted 1 on 1 with a qualified Physiotherapist and uses the full range of Pilates and Gyrotonic equipment as needed, and focuses on the specific rehabilitation needs of the client.

The format that you choose really depends on the level of attention that you will require from your instructor, as well your your own individual budget.....see your options here.

Can I do this at home?

Many exercises that you learn at Iso Fit can be done at home. In fact, this is recommended, as it will help sharpen the techniques that you learned in your lesson at Iso Fit and further prepare your body ahead of your next session. Please ask your instructor for some exercises that can be performed at home in between your sessions - Iso Fit also sells a range of products and accessories to enable you to perform even more exercises while at home, at work or on the road! See here from some Instructional Articles or visit the T8 Fitness Store to see the range of products and accessories that are on offer.

What do I wear?

Please make sure to wear appropriate exercise clothes - nothing too tight or too loose, which would inhibit your movement in any way. Please also note that socks are required. If you forget your socks, don't worry! We have charity socks available for purchase at HKD15 - all proceeds from these sales go to charity.

Is it ok to come straight after lunch (or a meal)?

Exactly how much you can eat before a session and how much time is needed between eating and exercise depends on the the individual. In general it is not advisable to exercise too soon after a full meal but attending an Iso Fit session at least half an hour after a light snack should be OK.

Payment, Admin and Booking

If I buy a package would I be guaranteed to be able to book all my lessons?

Group Sessions are offered on a fixed timetable and places can be booked subject to availability in the class of choice. Studio Sessions (Private and Semi private) are offered according to the timetable and subsequent availability of the instructors. We have many instructors working throughout the day from 8am to 8pm. As mentioned above, we recommend that you take your sessions with more than one instructor- this also makes it more likely to get your preferred time slot. Booking sessions as far in advance as possible will go a long way in securing the slot you want with the instructor you prefer. Remember you can cancel or change a booked session at any time more than 24 hours ahead of your booked session.

Do I have to buy a separate package if I do different things?

You must buy a separate package for each session type that you would like to attend (private, semi-private, mat etc). You cannot use the same package to attend different session types at Iso Fit.

Can my husband and I share a package?

Packages cannot be shared. However, Iso Fit does offer options for couples to work out together. Our Duet option is the best value for money for those that would like to work out in a pair. We also offer Semi-private sessions for those that would like a little more flexibility. Semi-Private sessions enable you are able to book a session without having to worry about finding a partner to join you. Read more about our studio options here.

Is there a time limit on the validity of my package?

Each package is valid for a certain time period only. After that time period is finished, the package expires and you will have to purchase a new package. Make sure that you will be able to comfortably complete all sessions in your package before purchase. You can find the validity period of each package here.

Can I get insurance to reimburse me for sessions at Iso Fit?

Although we do not guarantee reimbursement, in many cases insurance companies are happy to reimburse clients (at least in part) for sessions taken. Physio Fit (our rehab unit) has spent a lot of time and effort building its Rehabilitation team, with Hong Kong qualified Physiotherapists. In order to claim your sessions from insurance, you must have:

  • An Insurance plan that covers physiotherapy.
  • A Doctor's referral letter
  • You must also do your sessions with one of our qualified Pilates Clinicians.

All other sessions, and sessions taken with other instructors are usually not eligible for insurance reimbursement.

Do you accept credit cards?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express credit cards.

How to I book my sessions?

You can book your session via phone (by calling Iso Fit reception), via e mail (by e mailing Iso Fit reception) or on our easy to use online booking system by using your online username and password. If you do not know your username and password, please ask reception to give you these details.

Once I have booked my session, can I change/cancel the booking?

You can change or cancel your booking if you give more than 24hrs notice. Within 24hrs of your booked session you cannot cancel or change your booking and you will be charged the full fee if you miss your session.