Bones & Balance

Strength, Stability and Confidence;
in daily life

Bones & Balance is a specialised Reformer Pilates programme at Northlake Pilates, designed to support adults aged 55 and over to feel steadier, stronger and more confident in their bodies.

Our programme has been assessed by WellSouth, the Primary Health Network for Otago and Southland; and we are proud to be part of the Live Stronger for Longer initiative (dedicated to preventing falls-related injury in older adults in our communities). It is also an ACC approved Strength and Balance programme in Wanaka.

Our studio is committed to providing a premium service that acknowledges and respects how the body changes as we age. Bones & Balance is ideal if you’re conscious of balance, bone health, old or recurring injuries and you want to keep yourself moving well, long term.

A Targeted Approach to Bone Health and Balance

Unlike a general Pilates class, Bones & Balance places a strong emphasis on lower-body strength, balance and functional stability. These key areas support clients to increase bone density, reduce the risk of falling and maintain their independence.

At least one third of each class is dedicated to strengthening the hips, legs and feet, while still supporting the whole body through core work, posture, mobility and coordination.

Classes are thoughtfully sequenced and carefully coached, allowing you to build strength safely and progressively, at a pace that feels right for you.

What to expect

Bones & Balance classes are small and supportive, with a maximum of six clients per class, allowing your instructor to provide personal guidance and set a “just-right” challenge for each individual.

Sessions include the use of:

Reformer machines
TRX
Resistance bands and small weights
Blocks, stability balls and dowels

The focus is on:

Lower-body strength and bone-loading exercises
Balance and stability
Core strength and postural support
Joint mobility and movement confidence
Awareness of foot placement and alignment

Regular attendees often report improvements in balance, strength and ease of movement in everyday activities.

Attentive instruction

Grounded in knowledge, experience and best practice

Our Bones & Balance classes are led by Caroline Gray and Sarah Wisson who are Comprehensive Certified Pilates instructors.

This involves 400 hours of training in the complete use of Pilates apparatus alongside extensive study into pathology, rehabilitation and clinical movement applications. Together they bring over 40 years of combined industry and clinical working experience.

You will be encouraged in this programme to achieve real results in ways that are both safe and effective for your body.

Additional information

If you’re new to Reformer Pilates or have movement considerations, we recommend getting in touch before booking. In some cases, starting with one-on-one for a supported introduction allows us to better understand your movement, address any biomechanical considerations, and ensure you're well prepared and join a group class with confidence.

Practical details

Bones & Balance is designed for adults aged 55 and above and is appropriate for people with osteopenia, osteoporosis, or those wanting to reduce the risk of injury from falling.

What to bring: Yourself - towels and water are provided at the studio.

What to wear: Comfortable clothing you can move in. Soft, simple garments work best; zips and belts tend to get in the way.
Grip socks are recommended. If you don’t have a pair, we have a small range available for purchase.

Class Options

We currently offer two Bones-focused classes on our timetable

Bones & Balance:

Focuses on trunk stability, posture, balance exercises and lower body strengthening. This class is well-paced, supportive and suitable for people newer to Pilates Reformer.

Bones, Balance & Strength:

Offers more complexity, load and co-ordination. This class is for people who are familiar with Pilates Reformer exercises and have established an understanding of the Pilates principles. Strength, resistance and balance work are progressed.