Classical Pilates

THE FAYA METHOD BY SOPHIE

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Rooted in Classical Pilates

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Mat, Reformer & Cadillac/Tower

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Private 1-1s
or 2:1 Duets

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Meet Sophie

I teach the Classical Pilates method, with training in Mat, Reformer and Tower, alongside Barre and Yoga. My approach is rooted in the original principles of Pilates, with a focus on mindful movement, strength, control, alignment and connection.

I offer welcoming small-group Mat Pilates classes locally in Leigh, near Reigate, creating a supportive environment where you can build strength, confidence and consistency in your practice.

For a more personalised experience, I offer private 1-1 sessions and 2:1 duets from my home Pilates studio in Leigh, near Reigate. Each session is tailored to your body, goals and level of experience whether you're completely new to Pilates, looking to deepen your practice, or want more focused guidance.

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The Different Pilates Classes

  • Mat Pilates is a form of exercise performed on the floor using your body weight to build strength, improve flexibility, and support posture. It focuses on controlled, low-impact movements that target your core and overall stability.

  • Reformer Pilates uses a specialist machine with springs to provide resistance and support, allowing for a more varied and adaptable workout. It helps improve strength, alignment, flexibility, and control.

  • The Cadillac and Tower are pieces of Pilates apparatus that form part of the Classical Pilates system. Using springs, bars and straps, they offer support and resistance to build strength, mobility, stability and control, with exercises adapted to suit your body and individual needs.

  • Private 1-1 sessions and duets offer a focused and personalised approach to Pilates, with exercises adapted to your body, goals and experience. They are particularly beneficial if you’re returning to exercise, managing an injury or condition, rebuilding strength, or looking to improve your technique and confidence. Using the Pilates apparatus, sessions can be carefully tailored to support your individual needs and progression.

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What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is the foundation of the Classical Pilates method, using a series of controlled, precise exercises performed on the mat to develop core strength, stability, mobility, coordination and body awareness.

The exercises can be adapted to support those managing injuries or conditions such as back pain, slipped discs, rotator cuff issues and hip concerns, as well as those returning to exercise. By progressing at the right pace, Mat Pilates can help build strength, improve movement and restore confidence in your body.

Benefits of Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates offers a well-rounded, low-impact workout that strengthens the body, improves movement quality, and supports long-term physical health.

  • Targets the deep abdominal and back muscles to create a strong, supportive foundation for everyday movement.

  • Encourages better alignment and helps you become more mindful of how you move and hold your body.

  • Gently lengthens muscles and improves joint range of motion, reducing stiffness and tension.

  • Develops balanced, functional strength without the need for heavy equipment or high impact.

  • Strengthens key muscle groups and promotes controlled movement patterns to help protect and recover the body.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates is performed on a specialised machine called a reformer, which uses springs for resistance along with a moving carriage, straps, and a footbar. This allows for a wider range of exercises and adjustable resistance to support or challenge your body.

The reformer is ideal for both beginners, as it can assist movement, and more advanced clients, as it can add intensity and precision.

Benefits of Reformer

Reformer Pilates offers a full-body workout using adjustable resistance to build strength, improve control, and support efficient, balanced movement.

  • The spring system allows exercises to be tailored to your level, supporting or challenging you as needed.

  • The structure of the reformer helps guide your body into proper positioning, improving form and reducing compensation.

  • Combines strength and stretch to enhance overall movement quality and body control.

  • Can be adapted to support injury recovery or focus on specific areas such as core stability, hips, or shoulders.

  • Emphasises the Pilates principles of concentration, control, centring, precision, and breath to create more efficient, intentional movement.

Private 1:1 & 2:1 Duet Sessions in Surrey

Experience Pilates in my private home studio at Oakleigh Garden Farm, Leigh, Surrey.

Private 1-1 sessions and duets allow us to work closely together, using the Classical Pilates method and apparatus including the Reformer, Mat and Tower. Every session is tailored to your body, goals and experience, whether you're completely new to Pilates, returning to exercise, managing an injury or condition, or looking to deepen your existing practice.

With individual guidance and a considered approach to progression, we can focus on technique, strength, mobility, alignment and building confidence in your movement.

FAYA BY SOPHIE

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not at all both Mat and Reformer Pilates are suitable for beginners, and exercises can be adapted to your level so you can build confidence and strength safely.

  • This depends on your goals, but most clients benefit from 1–3 sessions per week to see improvements in strength, flexibility, and overall movement.

  • Yes, Pilates is often recommended to support recovery and prevent injury, as it focuses on core strength, alignment, and controlled movement. Sessions can be adapted to suit your needs.

  • These are personalised sessions tailored to your goals, either one-to-one or shared with a partner. They allow for more focused coaching and faster progress. I am happy to come to your home for convenience.

  • I run group classes locally in the Leigh Village Hall every Tuesday and Thursday evening. I also offer private 1-1 and duet sessions in my home studio in Leigh, Surrey.

  • You can get in touch via my contact page or message me directly to book your first session or ask any questions.

Start Your Pilates Journey

If you’re not sure where to begin, I’m happy to help you decide whether Mat, Reformer, or a combination of both is right for you.

Get in touch to book your first session or to find out more.

  • Sophie has a rare gift for striking the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment — you always feel like you’ve worked hard, yet somehow had a brilliant time doing it. It’s that combination that keeps us coming back week after week.

    — Rebecca G

  • I am so impressed with Sophie’s Pilates classes both mat and reformer, the quality of her teaching, support and encouragement make the classes fun and effective, wanting to go back for more!!

    — Lindsey V

  • As a complete beginner, I never expected to love Pilates this much—but Sophie has changed everything. She’s warm, encouraging, and explains movements so clearly that I always feel supported and confident.Her classes are fun, welcoming, and genuinely motivating. I’m officially obsessed with Pilates now, all thanks to Sophie. Can’t wait to keep improving!

    — Lauren E

  • I have been impressed by the Total Beginner Reformer classes led by Sophie. She is so kind and encouraging, she doesn’t judge and she makes you feel like you matter. She offers alternative levels within the activities so that those with injuries can participate safely, and she also offers extensions for those who want to push themselves harder. Highly recommended, thank you Sophie

    - Amanda T

  • I’m really enjoying my mat classes with Sophie and have booked in each week. She is a brilliant teacher with so much positive energy and she is fun which for me is a must!

    - Jo L