Margate Studio
Classical Pilates in Margate
Experience the Classical Pilates method through small group Reformer, Tower, Mat and Mixed Apparatus classes, alongside personalised private sessions.
Our Margate studio is on the Kent coast, in the heart of Margate, moments from the seafront.
About the Studio
Classical Pilates Studio & Teacher Training Academy in Margate, Kent
James Shaw Pilates Margate is a specialist Classical Pilates studio and teacher training academy overlooking Margate Main Sands on the Kent coast. Our fully equipped studio offers small group Reformer Pilates, Tower, Mat and Mixed Apparatus classes, alongside personalised private sessions across the traditional Classical apparatus.
Our teaching follows the original Contrology method of Joseph Pilates, taught as a complete system with an emphasis on intelligent, individual teaching and a deep understanding of the work.
The Classical Method
The original Contrology method taught as a complete system, connecting each exercise and apparatus within the wider method.
Small Groups
A maximum of six clients per class allows for individual attention and a highly personalised experience.
Expert Guidance
Every class is led by a Classically trained teacher, with teaching tailored to the individual in front of them.
Reformer & Tower Classes
Small-group Reformer and Tower classes introduce the original Classical Pilates method through spring resistance and purposeful movement. Class size is limited to six clients per class, with expert guidance tailored to each client’s level. Whether you’re just beginning your Pilates journey or continuing it, each session is designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and reconnect with your body.
Classical Mat Classes
Small-group Mat classes provide the foundation of the Classical Pilates method, following the traditional sequences developed by Joseph Pilates. Each class is designed to help you build strength, flexibility, control, and a deeper connection to your body through precise, purposeful movement. With expert guidance and individual attention in every class, you’ll learn to move with greater awareness and confidence, developing skills that support lifelong strength, posture, and wellbeing. Suitable for all levels, our Mat classes are a foundation for both new and experienced practitioners.
Mixed Apparatus Classes
Mixed Apparatus classes combine Reformer, Tower, Chair, Barrels, and other traditional apparatus in a dynamic circuit-style format. Designed for experienced students, these sessions challenge and develop strength, coordination, control, and your understanding of the Classical method, deepening your practice across the complete Pilates system. With small class sizes and expert instruction, you’ll continue to refine your technique, transitions, and confidence on every piece of apparatus. We recommend completing Beginner and Intermediate Mat, Reformer, and Tower classes before joining Mixed Apparatus, to ensure a strong foundation in the Classical repertoire.
Private Pilates Sessions
Private Pilates sessions provide a fully personalised approach, tailored to your individual goals, experience, and movement needs. Whether you are recovering from injury, managing a specific condition, new to Pilates, or looking to deepen your practice, each session is designed around you. Working one-to-one with an expert instructor, you’ll receive individual guidance, hands-on support, and a programme that evolves with your progress. Private sessions are ideal for building confidence, developing technique, addressing complex movement patterns, or complementing your regular Mat and apparatus classes with more focused, in-depth tuition.
Duet Pilates Sessions
Duet Pilates sessions offer the benefits of private tuition while sharing the experience with a friend, partner, or family member. In a dedicated setting, expert guidance is tailored to both participants’ individual needs, making Duet sessions an enjoyable and motivating way to practise Pilates. Ideal for those who enjoy training together, want the accountability of a workout partner, or wish to share the cost of a private session without compromising on instruction quality, Duet sessions are suitable whether you’re both new to Pilates or looking to deepen your practice. Each session is designed to help you move with greater strength, confidence, and control.
Live Virtual Classes
Practise Classical Pilates with us from anywhere in the world. Our Live Virtual Classes are streamed directly from the studio, giving you the same expert instruction, small-group energy and classical repertoire in real time. Whether you are travelling, based abroad, or simply prefer training from home, you can join our teachers live and continue building your practice with the community. Sessions run in real time so you can receive cues and adjustments, and the classical focus on precision, control and breath comes through the screen exactly as it does in the studio.
What We Offer
Visiting Margate Studio
Our Address
11 Albert Terrace, Margate CT9 1UJ UK
Parking
Metered Parking out the front. Free parking before 9am and after 6pm
Trains
We’re a 5 mins walk away from Margate station
First visit
Please arrive 5 minutes before your class. To ensure an uninterrupted experience for those training before you, the studio door will open approximately 5 minutes before the class start time. Wear comfortable, fitted activewear, and grip socks are recommended for apparatus classes.
We'll introduce you to the studio, guide you through the equipment, and make sure you feel comfortable before your first session.

