Welcome to Unique Pilates
Unique Pilates Philosophy
Our Pilates classes are focused on supporting each person to become the master of their own body. We believe that no one needs to live in pain and that Pilates is a key to achieving that reality. Pilates can build your bodies foundation making you less likely to be injured, reconcile muscle imbalances, rehabilitate injuries, build strength, lessen soreness and stiffness, get you fit, and increase your overall mental health and well being.
Take a Class
Mat Pilates
What is “Mat” Pilates? When practicing on a mat, we bring Pilates back to its origins with flowing cueing-led exercises and breathwork, utilizing your body weight as resistance. It is an effective way to increase body awareness, tone your body, enhance flexibility, improve posture, and improve overall strength and well-being. Our group classes are 55 minutes and maximum 12 people.
We can accept walk-ins but prefer existing clients use the ClassFit App to register for classes. We ask all *new* clients to please contact the studio before registering or attending your first class to discuss your needs and ability to make sure the class is suited to you and to insure there is a space for you!
Private Sessions
Private sessions are especially great for recovering and re-habilitating an injury. A qualified instructor can assist you and your injury and cater to your specific needs more than a general class would allow. The outcome could improve your mobility, speed up recovery, and improve how you perform activities.
A private session is one hour and we can also set you up with a home programme to further your progress. We use a variety of exercises tailored to you using the reformer, small equipment, and mat exercises.
Contact us to schedule your first session!
Mat Class Schedule
Monday
9.30am - Beginner 2 Mat
6:00pm - Beginner 2 Mat
7:00pm - Intermediate Mat
Tuesday
5:30pm - Beginner Mat
6.30pm - Beginner Mat
Wednesday
9:30am - Beginner Mat
6:00pm - Beginner Mat 2
7:00pm - Beginner Mat
Thursday
5:30pm - Beginner Mat
6:30pm - Small equip class (Beg 2/int)
Friday
9:30am - Beginner Mat 2
Saturday
9:00am - Beginner Mat
Our Team
Mel James
Studio Owner/Director
Mel has been teaching Pilates since 1999 once her dance career came to an end. She gained her Polestar Mat and Studio qualifications in 2001 while helping to train and set up the Australian Polestar facility while mentoring new students through their Polestar exams.
Melissa is now a Polestar NZ Educator, educating new Pilates students.
She is a rehabilitation specialist and can modify exercises to suit your individual needs. In 2021, 2022 and 2024 she was a finalist in the NZ Fitness Awards for her Pilates instruction.
Tamara Richardson
Instructor
Tamara first started her Pilates journey in 2006 when she was searching for something to improve her overall health and fitness. She was impressed by the authenticity and integrity of Pilates. The idea of helping people become stronger and in control of their bodies is what inspired Tamara to train as a teacher.
She completed The Pilates Standard training in Germany in 2016 and is currently completing her Polestar Mat certification. If not doing Pilates, you may also find Tamara running though Bottle Lake Forrest or on a Yoga mat.
Kirsten Vaughn
Instructor
Kirsten became a national level athlete and through this, she developed a passion for more knowledge in health & wellness. This led to a life changing decision—to leave behind a successful professional career in another field and retrain as a strength based personal trainer & coach.
In 2021 the next phase commenced when Kirsten stepped into Pilates. It was love at first move and led led to the decision to train as an instructor. Kirsten is currently completing the Polestar Mat certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have done Pilates before?
No! Not at all. Unique Pilates is for everyone at every level and ability, from beginners to athletes and from age 15-100!
Do I need to bring a mat?
Nope! All mats, props and other exercise materials are provided in the fully equipped studio. Simply bring yourself and a smile!
How long is a class or session?
55 minutes for classes and 60 minutes for private sessions.
How large are the group classes?
Anywhere from 5 - 12 people per class.
What is the cost of a class?
Group classes are $18 each or you can purchase in bulk at a discount with 4 classes for $70 or 8 classes for $130.
Private sessions are $70 per session.
Is Pilates only for women?
No! Definitely not. Pilates is for men and women. We have quite a few men who attend regularly.
What should I wear to Pilates?
Whatever feels most comfortable for you! But we recommend tops and bottoms that are breathable, stretchy and comfortable. Some movements require bending, so keep that in mind when it comes to tops, shorts or see-through materials.
If I am injured, can I still do Pilates?
Yes! Absolutely. Our instructors are very experienced and able to modify the exercises to meet your needs if they have been fully informed of your injury in advance. Pilates is great to rehabilitate all types of injuries! If you are unsure about a class being appropriate, please talk to an instructor who may suggest a private session prior.
Can I do Pilates while pregnant?
Yes, but recommended to take private sessions only. Group Pilates classes are not recommended unless you have spoken with the instructor in advance.
How often should I do Pilates each week?
Once a week is good, twice a week is great, and three times a week is amazing! Of course the more often the quicker the results, but once or twice a week is the norm. We suggest doing small pieces of Pilates at home daily to build the muscle memory and body awareness.
Contact Unique Pilates
Got questions or feedback? Contact Mel directly!
Call or Text: 0212380785
Email: mjamespilates@xtra.co.nz
Level 1, 18 Bower Ave. North New Brighton, CHCH 8083*
*Please park in the lot directly across the street from our building or on the street when visiting so as to not occupy parking space of the businesses near us. Thank you!