Frequently asked questions.

what is breathe studio?

Breathe Studio is London’s most beautiful pilates and yoga studio. Breathe Studio is a sanctuary in Islington, London, where you can come to workout, relax, connect and just breathe.

How do I find breathe studio?

We are located at 313-314 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 2XQ however our entrance is on Gaskin Street (off Upper St). So turn onto Gaskin Street from Upper St and we are the first right. There is a sign for Islington House. Press 7 and Enter and you will be let in.

Can the studio be hired?

Breathe Studio is available to hire for classes, photoshoots, video shoots and certain events. Pricing depends on the date, time and type of event. If you would like to hire Breathe Studio, please see our hire page on this website.

What do I need to bring to class?

All you need to bring to class is suitable workout clothes and a water bottle. Shoes are not worn in any classes at Breathe Studio. We will provide mats, towels, equipment and water. Grippy socks are totally up to you.

What is pilates?

Pilates is a functional form of exercise, meaning that it prepares the body for healthy movement in daily activities. Pilates involves repetitive movements which move the spine in all planes, whilst teaching core and pelvic stabilisation. It was invented by Joseph PIlates in the early 20th century.

Can I do pilates or yoga?

Pilates and asana (physical yoga) are suitable for everyone, provided they do not have an acute injury, have not recently had surgery or are in the first 6 weeks post childbirth.

Are pilates and yoga hard?

Pilates and yoga can be as easy or difficult as you make it. It is up to you to choose which modification and variation you take during class. For example, in pilates it is up to you how hard you contract your core and pelvic floor during exercises. The more you contract these muscles, the more difficult the movement will be.

What does pilates do?

Pilates trains the body to keep the spine and pelvis in good alignment, leading to a reduction in imbalances, tension and injuries. Pilates is incredible for spinal mobility, full body strengthening especially in the core, shoulder and pelvic stability, full body stretching and relaxation. Pilates also tones and lengthens the whole body, especially the core, glutes, arms and legs.

How often should I do pilates to see results?

This is dependant on many factors. From personal experience, our studio owner, Emma Henderson, recommends doing 30-60 minutes of pilates (or yoga or barre) at least three times a week for around three weeks to start seeing results. Joseph Pilates said “In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a whole new body.”

Is pilates a good way to lose weight? Is yoga a good way to lose weight?

Any activity in which you burn calories (including pilates, yoga and barre) will aid in the process of losing weight (when combined with appropriate nutrition). Pilates, yoga and barre can be a good way to start a weight-loss journey as they are low intensity forms of exercise with a focus on form and alignment. Furthermore, regular yoga and pilates can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) levels, which has been shown to assist with weight loss.

Are you hiring?

We are open to adding experienced, self-contracting pilates teachers to our schedule. At the moment, we are not looking for yoga teachers. If you would like to be considered, please send your CV to breathe_studio@outlook.com. Ideally, please also send a 10-20 minute video of you teaching a class. We are very unlikely to consider hiring any newly qualified teachers,