What is HIPP Pilates?
HIPP Pilates (High Intensity Power Pilates) combines the precision and control of traditional Pilates with dynamic, heart-pumping movement that leaves you energised and strong.
If you're searching for a more challenging Pilates workout, HIPP delivers results you can feel - and see.
What is HIPP Pilates?
HIPP is a specialised style of Pilates that adds an aerobic, high-intensity element to your practice while maintaining all the fundamental principles you know and love:
✓ Correct Alignment - Every movement maintains optimal posture
✓ Centring - Deep core engagement throughout
✓ Breathing - Coordinated breath patterns supporting movement
✓ Control - Precise, deliberate movements (no flailing!)
✓ Concentration - Full mind-body connection
✓ Coordination - Complex movement patterns that challenge your brain
✓ Flowing Movements - Choreographed sequences that link together
✓ Stamina - Building endurance alongside strength
The HIPP Difference: While traditional mat Pilates keeps your heart rate relatively steady, HIPP raises it into cardiovascular training zones, adding a whole new dimension to your practice.
Benefits of HIPP Pilates
Why Add HIPP to Your Fitness Routine?
Cardiovascular Health
Improve heart health and endurance while maintaining Pilates precision. It's the cardio workout that doesn't sacrifice form for intensity.
Bone Health
HIPP incorporates light weights and dynamic standing work, making it excellent for improving bone mineral density. Perfect for osteopenia and osteoporosis prevention.
Balance & Functional Movement
Significantly more standing work than traditional mat Pilates, focusing on the functional movement patterns you use daily: walking, sitting, standing, lifting, reaching.
Calorie Burn
Higher intensity means increased calorie expenditure during and after your workout (the "afterburn effect").
Mental Challenge
Choreographed sequences that flow together keep your mind engaged. You'll learn combinations that build over weeks.
Strength + Cardio
Get the best of both worlds - muscular strength and endurance combined with cardiovascular fitness.
Variety & Fun
Dynamic, energising workouts that are genuinely enjoyable. HIPP classes have a different energy - they're social, uplifting, and motivating.
Functional Strength
Focus on movement patterns that directly translate to real life - carrying shopping, gardening, playing with grandchildren, outdoor activities.
What to Expect in a HIPP Class
The HIPP Experience:
HIPP workouts are fun, dynamic, and energising with choreographed movements that flow seamlessly from one exercise to the next. Think of it as a Pilates dance - but one that seriously challenges your muscles and elevates your heart rate!
Class Structure:
Warm-Up (5-10 minutes)
Mobilising the spine and joints, activating the core, preparing the body for intensity.
Standing Work (20-25 minutes)
Dynamic sequences incorporating light weights, balance challenges, and functional movement patterns. This is where your heart rate rises!
Mat Work (15-20 minutes)
Traditional Pilates exercises with increased pace and challenge.
Cool-Down & Stretch (5-10 minutes)
Returning heart rate to normal, deep stretching, and relaxation.
What Makes It "High Intensity":
Faster pace than traditional Pilates (but never rushed)
More repetitions of exercises
Less rest between movements
Dynamic transitions and combinations
Cardiovascular elements woven throughout
Light weights (0.5kg - 2kg) for added resistance
What Keeps It "Pilates":
Precision and control in every movement
Proper alignment and core engagement
Coordinated breathing
Mindful, focused practice
Individual modifications available
Who is HIPP Pilates For?
Ideal For:
✓ Experienced Pilates Practitioners
You have a solid understanding of Pilates principles and are ready for more challenge.
✓ Fit Individuals
You have good cardiovascular fitness and are looking to add variety to your workout routine.
✓ Former Athletes
Missing the intensity of competitive sport? HIPP provides that challenge within a controlled, safe framework.
✓ Intermediate/Advanced Levels
You're comfortable with Pilates fundamentals and want to progress your practice.
✓ Bone Health Focus
Anyone wanting to improve or maintain bone density through weight-bearing exercise.
✓ Those Seeking Variety
Bored with standard workouts? HIPP's choreographed sequences keep every class fresh and engaging.
Can Beginners Do HIPP?
Originally designed for fit, uninjured clients, HIPP can be modified to suit:
✓ Older Adults (with good base fitness)
Modifications allow you to work at appropriate intensity while building strength and stamina.
✓ Less Fit Individuals Wanting to Progress
If you're currently in improvers or intermediate Pilates and want to increase fitness levels, HIPP provides a clear progression path.
✓ Those Building Back Fitness
If you were previously fit and are returning to exercise after time off, HIPP (with modifications) can help rebuild your conditioning.
Not Recommended For:
✗ Complete beginners to Pilates
✗ Those with uncontrolled medical conditions
✗ Recent injuries (without clearance)
✗ Severe osteoporosis (unless cleared by consultant)
✗ Anyone uncomfortable with higher intensity
Not Sure? Contact me to discuss whether HIPP is appropriate for your current fitness level. I can assess your readiness and suggest a pathway to get you HIPP-ready if needed!
HIP Pilates vs. Regular Pilates
How Do They Compare?
| Aspect | Traditional Pilates | HIPP Pilates |
|---|---|---|
| Pace | Slower, controlled | Faster, dynamic |
| Heart Rate | Steady, moderate | Elevated, cardio zones |
| Intensity | Moderate | High |
| Standing Work | Some exercises | Majority of class |
| Equipment | Mat, small props | Mat, light weights, props |
| Focus | Precision, alignment | Precision + endurance |
| Calorie Burn | Moderate | Higher |
| Bone Benefits | Good | Excellent |
| Best For | All levels | Intermediate to advanced |
| Class Energy | Calm, focused | Energising, upbeat |
The Bottom Line: Both are excellent! Many clients do HIPP once per week and traditional Pilates classes on other days for a balanced practice.
The HIPP Journey: What to Expect Over Time
Weeks 1-2: Learning the Basics
Getting comfortable with the faster pace, learning basic combinations, building cardiovascular endurance.
Weeks 3-4: Building Stamina
Noticing improved endurance, feeling stronger in standing work, mastering basic choreography.
Weeks 5-8: Increasing Challenge
Ready for more complex combinations, handling heavier weights, sustaining elevated heart rate more comfortably.
Weeks 9-12: Seeing Results
Visible changes in muscle tone, significantly improved fitness, better balance and coordination, increased confidence.
Beyond 12 Weeks:
Ongoing progression with more advanced variations, continued strength gains, maintenance of excellent cardiovascular fitness.
Why Train HIPP with Rachel?
Official HIPP Training: I'm a fully qualified HIPP instructor, trained in the official HIPP method through Body Control Pilates.
Understanding of Progression: With specialised training in bone health, hypermobility, and back care, I know how to challenge you safely while respecting your body's limits.
Small Class sizes: Maximum 12 people means individual attention even in a dynamic class setting.
Personalised Modifications: Every body is different. I provide options so you can work at your optimal intensity.
9 Years Experience: I understand how to push you appropriately - enough to see results, not so much you get injured or burnt out.
Client Experiences
"HIPP has completely changed my fitness. I thought I was fit from running, but this challenges my body in completely new ways. I'm stronger, more balanced, and my running has actually improved!" - Sarah, Skipton
"I was getting bored with regular Pilates but didn't want to lose the benefits. HIPP was the perfect answer - I get the intensity I crave while maintaining that mind-body connection." - Michael, Barnoldswick
"As someone with osteopenia, my doctor recommended weight-bearing exercise. HIPP gives me that plus cardiovascular benefits, all in a format I actually enjoy!" - Janet, Grassington
Ready to Power Up Your Pilates?
If you're currently attending Improvers or Intermediate classes and want to add intensity to your practice, HIPP might be your next step!
Getting Started:
Assess Your Readiness
Contact me to discuss your current fitness level and Pilates experience.
Choose Your Entry Point
I'll recommend whether to join an existing intermediate class or wait for a dedicated HIPP class.
Start Training
Jump in with modifications as needed, building up to full intensity over several weeks.
Track Your Progress
Notice improvements in strength, stamina, bone health, and overall fitness.