Business Details
19 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Fitness & Physiotherapy Solutions
Principle Pilates is a dedicated team of STOTT PILATES instructors, Merrithew Instructor Trainers, and Chartered Physiotherapists based in Southampton. We specialise in delivering tailored fitness and rehabilitation programs that integrate Pilates, physiotherapy, and innovative movement techniques. Our approach combines expert assessment, personalised exercise regimens, and collaborative care with healthcare professionals to address diverse client needs.With over two decades of collective experience, our team serves individuals from rehabilitation patients to elite athletes, offering cutting-edge facilities and evidence-based methodologies. We prioritise client-centred care, continuous professional development, and the integration of clinical expertise with practical application to maximise physical potential and well-being.
Services
Pilates Classes
Physiotherapy
Instructor Training
Gyrotonic Method
Rehabilitation Programs
Group Fitness
One-to-One Sessions
Sports Injury Treatment
Pregnancy Pilates
Clinical Pilates
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of combined experience in Pilates instruction and physiotherapy
- Our team includes STOTT PILATES Lead Instructor Trainers and Chartered Physiotherapists
- We integrate clinical rehabilitation with movement therapy for comprehensive care
- We provide equipment-based Pilates using V2 Max Reformers and Cadillac units
- Our facilities combine Pilates studios with dedicated physiotherapy treatment rooms
Associations and certifications
- STOTT PILATES
- Merrithew Corporation
What people say
Highly skilled practitioners
Effective physiotherapy
Personalised programs
Professional environment
Improved mobility
Services
Pilates Classes
Our Pilates classes combine STOTT PILATES methodology with ZENGA principles to improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. Using reformers, cadillacs, and stability chairs, we cater to all fitness levels through tailored group sessions. Clients benefit from enhanced body awareness and reduced injury risk through our structured progression system.
Physiotherapy
Chartered Physiotherapists provide evidence-based treatment for sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, and chronic pain management. We integrate Pilates-based rehabilitation with manual therapy and acupuncture to restore mobility and prevent recurrence. Our approach combines clinical expertise with practical exercise prescription for lasting results.
Instructor Training
As a leading Merrithew Host Centre, we offer comprehensive STOTT PILATES instructor certification programs. Our courses cover reformer, mat, and equipment-based training with expert mentorship. Graduates receive internationally recognised qualifications and ongoing professional development support.
Gyrotonic Method
This unique system uses specialised equipment to create fluid, three-dimensional movements that decompress joints and strengthen connective tissue. Our certified instructors guide clients through rhythmic sequences that improve spinal mobility and joint articulation while enhancing breathing capacity and coordination.
Rehabilitation Programs
Tailored rehabilitation plans combine physiotherapy assessment with Pilates-based exercise prescription. We address musculoskeletal imbalances, postural issues, and movement pattern dysfunctions through progressive, equipment-assisted training. Our integrated approach supports long-term recovery and injury prevention for diverse client needs.
People
Chrissy Connelly
Co-Owner & Lead Instructor Trainer
Former competitive windsurfer turned STOTT PILATES Lead Instructor Trainer with 20+ years experience. Specialises in movement coaching and rehabilitation, working with Southampton Football Club and delivering international certification courses.
Samantha Allen
Co-Owner & Chartered Physiotherapist
Chartered Physiotherapist with 25+ years clinical experience, specialising in sports injury rehabilitation and paediatric physiotherapy. Integrates Pilates into treatment programs for clients ranging from marathon runners to post-natal women.
Nikita Wilson
Co-Owner & Pilates Instructor
Certified STOTT PILATES instructor with 15 years teaching experience. Combines Pilates expertise with background in group fitness instruction, specialising in movement-based rehabilitation and strength conditioning.
Rob Edmondson
Physiotherapist
Chartered Physiotherapist with 20 years experience in sports physiotherapy and Pilates-based rehabilitation. Former physio for Hampshire cricket team, specialising in movement analysis and equipment-based Pilates instruction.
Questions
What Pilates equipment do you use?
We use V2 Max Reformers, Cadillac units, Barrels, Stability Chairs, and Stability Balls in our fully equipped Pilates studios.
Do you offer physiotherapy services?
Yes, our Chartered Physiotherapists provide sports injury treatment, post-surgical rehabilitation, and Pilates-integrated physiotherapy sessions.
Can beginners attend Pilates classes?
Yes, we offer introductory sessions and beginner-friendly group classes with equipment-based support for all fitness levels.
Do you provide instructor training courses?
We are a registered Merrithew Host Centre offering STOTT PILATES instructor certification programs for reformer, mat, and equipment training.
What is the Gyrotonic Method?
This movement system uses specialised equipment to create fluid, three-dimensional movements that decompress joints and strengthen connective tissue.
How do I book an appointment?
Contact us via phone or our website contact form to schedule initial consultations for physiotherapy, Pilates assessments, or course inquiries.
Reviews (4)
Jade Roberts
Feb 01, 2017
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After a serious car accident resulting in many injuries I was set on carrying on with sport and also my career as a hairdresser. Pilates has enabled me to do so! Chrissy has huge knowledge of the body-I do not know what I would do without her!
Jacqui Knott
Dec 30, 2016
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Thank you Chrissy for all of your excellent teaching. You always manage to ensure that each of our particular needs and issues are addressed professionally, whilst bringing warmth and humour to our much enjoyed classes! The new studio is really great - pristine with new equipment.
Joy Donnell
Aug 23, 2016
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I have been training with Chrissy for a while now. I didn't notice the changes in my posture until I hit my head on a low door frame I had missed for four years! All of a sudden I had to start ducking! Chrissy has a great sense of what's needed by your body and works with you to help you achieve your goals. It's always great fun and very professional at the same time. There is no substitute for the level of training Chrissy has gone through and I have no hesitation in recommending her. I am a middle aged woman with a few injuries and I feel stronger now in the injured areas than I ever thought
Maureen Pitfield
Aug 03, 2016
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I have been going to Pilates with Chrissy for many years! She has kept me on the straight and narrow, particularly as I have looked after my five active grandchildren for the past eight years (think lifting, twisting, playing on the floor for hours, heaving buggies around!). Need I add more!?
Chrissy has a stunning knowledge of her craft. Her understanding of the body, and Pilates, is second to none. Her classes are always tailored to our needs and delivered both professionally and with a sense of fun and understanding!! I know I will keep attending Chrissy's classes forever! I love them! Thanks
Chrissy has a stunning knowledge of her craft. Her understanding of the body, and Pilates, is second to none. Her classes are always tailored to our needs and delivered both professionally and with a sense of fun and understanding!! I know I will keep attending Chrissy's classes forever! I love them! Thanks
