faq’s

Your questions, answered. Whether you are brand new to Manna, thinking about trying Reformer Pilates, returning after some time away or already part of our community, you’ll find answers to our most frequently asked questions below. Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Get in touch with our team, we’re always happy to help.

GETTING STARTED

New to Manna? Everything you need to know before your first class.

  • You do not need any previous Reformer Pilates experience to join our classes. We pride ourselves on creating an intimate, supportive environment where our highly experienced instructors can tailor and adapt every session to suit all levels, including complete beginners.

    If you are new to Pilates, we recommend:

    • Starting with our signature Reformer Pilates classes, which are designed to introduce you to the fundamentals while still offering a balanced, full-body workout.

    • Attending 7–10 standard Reformer Pilates classes before joining our more advanced or fast-paced sessions, such as Sculpt & Sweat or the Advanced Class.

    • Booking a Private Pilates Session if you’d like extra personalised guidance, want to build confidence or would prefer a gentler introduction to the equipment and technique.

    • If you are feeling nervous and would like a softer start, we recommend beginning with classes taught by Barbi (Studio Manager), Sammy or Claire, who specialise in welcoming and supporting newcomers.

  • Reformer Pilates provides unique benefits for both physical and mental well-being. By incorporating adjustable resistance, it offers a customisable full-body workout that enhances core strength, improves posture, increases flexibility and builds overall body awareness. The added resistance allows for greater intensity and precision, making it ideal for targeting specific muscle groups and supporting injury rehabilitation.

    This versatile practice can be adapted to suit all fitness levels, helping individuals achieve balanced strength, improved mobility and mental focus.

  • Yes! Our signature Reformer classes are designed to be suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced. Our highly qualified instructors are skilled at tailoring each session to suit the individual needs of every participant. Whether you’re brand new to Reformer Pilates or have been practicing for years, you’ll receive personalised guidance in our small-group setting, ensuring you get the most out of every class.

    Important notes for beginners:

    • We do not recommend the Advanced Class or Sculpt & Sweat classes for beginners.

    • If you are new to Pilates, we recommend attending at least 7–10 classes before joining the Sculpt & Sweat classes, as these classes are more advanced and fast-paced.

    Additional support

    If you’d like more personalised instruction, we also offer Private Sessions. These one-on-one sessions are a great way to begin your Pilates journey, build confidence or refine your technique with focused support.

    And by the way, all our classes are suitable for men too! Whether your goals are strength, flexibility, mobility or simply stress relief, we’ve got you covered.

  • Comfortable exercise clothing is perfect for all classes, allowing you to move freely and feel at ease - think cozy yet supportive, like leggings or a soft top, to keep you comfortable throughout your class.

    Grip socks are required for safety and traction, and you can purchase them at the studio if needed.

    Don’t forget your water bottle! We also have a refill station to keep you hydrated!

  • All of our group Pilates classes are included in the Intro Offer — yes, that even includes our Mums & Bubs classes! This gives you the freedom to explore a variety of sessions and discover what you enjoy most. Please note that our Physio-led clinical exercise classes which run in Darlington (such as our Over 55’s clinical exercise class) are not included as part of the Intro Offer.

    Please note that the Intro Offer has a 21-day expiry, so be sure to make the most of it and book your classes within that time frame.

  • We kindly request you arrive 5 minutes prior to class to enable you plenty of time to be checked in, discuss any injuries with your instructor and set yourself up on the reformer equipment. If you are a new client, please ensure you arrive at least 10 minutes prior to class start time. If you arrive after the class has begun, the instructor may refuse late entry to avoid disruption to the class.

  • At Manna Wellness, we love to see clients across many stages of life participating in our classes. We do require clients to be at least 14 years of age to participate in our classes. If under 18 years, their parent/guardian will be required to sign a waiver to approve their attendance at the classes. Once this is signed, they are good to go!

  • Don’t be! Our classes are designed for you to work at your own pace.

    Every exercise has options, so you can start wherever feels right for you and build your strength and confidence as you go. Our instructors are there to guide you, encourage you and help you find the level that works for your body.

    You don’t need to be fit or experienced to get started - just come as you are, and we’ll take it from there.

CLASSES & BOOKING

The practical day-to-day stuff. Your guide to classes, bookings, waitlists and cancellations.

  • Classes can be booked via our Website or the Manna Wellness App. The app is our easiest way to view classes and make a booking - you can book classes, buy class packs and process payments all from your mobile. Click the links at the bottom of the page to download for Iphone or Android.

    You can also book classes right here on our website. You will be asked to create an account if you a new to Manna Wellness.

  • If you join a waitlist, you will be automatically added to the class if a space becomes available, up to 60 minutes before the class starts. You will be notified via text and/or email (depending on your ‘opt in’ preferences).

    By adding yourself to a waitlist, you are committing to attend the class if a spot becomes available. If you can no longer attend the class then please ensure you remove yourself from the waitlist to allow others the opportunity.

    Each class has 6 waitlist spots.

  • If you are added to a class from the waitlist, then our usual late cancellation / no-show policy applies.

    This means that if you are added to a class from a waitlist and cancel within 8 hours of the class start time or do not attend, you will forfeit the class credit. In addition, if you do not attend a booked class without cancelling, a $15 no show fee will apply.

    This policy applies even if you are added to the class less than 8 hours before the class start time. If you can no longer attend, please ensure you remove yourself from the waitlist before you are added to the class to avoid any charges or loss of a class credit.

    Waitlist notifications may occur up to 60 minutes prior to the class start time. We recommend enabling both email and SMS notifications in your account to ensure you receive waitlist updates in time.

  • Late Cancellation (within 8 hours):

    We have a strict 8-hour cancellation policy. If you cancel a class within 8 hours of the class start time, or do not attend, the class credit will be forfeited.

    Cancellations must be made via your account (through the Manna Wellness App, MindBody App, or your online account). Please note that we do not accept cancellations via email or phone.

    No Show Fee:

    If you are a no-show for a booked class, a $15 no-show fee will apply in addition to the loss of the class credit.

    If you are unable to attend a booked class and wish to avoid the fee, simply cancel your class ahead of time. This helps the waitlist to move and gives someone else the opportunity to attend.

  • Don’t worry! Add yourself to the waitlist and we’ll let you know if a spot becomes available.

    We find that there are almost always a few last-minute cancellations, so there’s a very good chance a spot will open up. If you are added to the class, you’ll receive a notification so you can jump in! Just be sure to ‘opt in’ for email or text message notifications.

    For our most popular class times, we recommend booking ahead to make sure you get the spot you want.

  • You are welcome to bring your phone with you, but we ask that it’s on silent and put away during class so you can switch off, focus on your movement and enjoy your 45 minutes.

PREGNANCY & POSTPARTUM

Stay active, supported and connected to your body through pregnancy and beyond.

  • Congratulations! Yes - you are absolutely welcome to join us. Reformer Pilates is a highly recommended form of exercise during pregnancy and postpartum. It offers a wide range of mental and physical benefits for pre- and post-natal clients, such as pelvic floor strengthening, improved breathing control, better balance and posture, reduced muscle and back pain, faster postpartum recovery, mental clarity and relaxation. Reformer Pilates can also significantly boost your energy levels, which is especially important during this time of change.

    Important to note

    • All pregnant and postpartum clients must receive medical clearance from their doctor and email a copy to Manna Wellness before attending any group classes.

    • Once cleared, you are welcome to join our Signature Reformer Pilates, Stretch & Flex, and Reform & Release classes. We do not recommend Jumpboard or Sculpt & Sweat classes during pregnancy or the postpartum period.

    • You must be 8 weeks postpartum before returning to classes.

    • For postpartum mums, we highly recommend completing an assessment with our physiotherapist, Lauren, before rejoining group classes.

    • Our highly trained instructors can always modify and adapt exercises to support your individual needs.

  • Babies are welcome in our dedicated Mums & Bubs classes, which are designed specifically for parents and their little ones.

    Outside of Mums & Bubs, our studio is a space for clients to switch off, focus and enjoy 45 minutes of uninterrupted movement. For this reason, children aren’t able to wait in the studio, reception or waiting areas while a parent or guardian is attending class.

  • Mums & Bubs is designed to be flexible and completely go-with-the-flow. Bring your baby in a carrier or pram, pop them on one of our little mats with some toys, or have them join you on the Reformer or on your lap during exercises - whatever works for you and your bub on the day.

    Some classes, babies sleep peacefully and Mum gets a full workout. Other days, there might be a little more crying, feeding, cuddling or settling. There is absolutely no judgement — we get it!

    Need to stop and feed, settle bub or step out for a moment? Of course. Come and go as you need and join in as much or as little as feels right for you that day.

  • There’s no set age limit for Mums & Bubs - every baby develops at their own pace. If your little one is happy to sit or play on their mat, or sit with you during exercises, they’re very welcome to join you.

    Once they’re confidently crawling and keen to explore the studio during class, it may be time for them to graduate from Mums & Bubs.

  • Yes! All Mums & Bubs classes are included in our Intro Offer, so you can bring bub along while you get started at Manna.

  • Don’t worry - we’ve been there! Mums & Bubs is designed to be flexible and completely go-with-the-flow.

    If your baby needs you, you are most welcome to stop, cuddle, feed, settle or step outside for a moment. There’s absolutely no pressure to keep exercising while your little one needs you.

    Some days your baby might happily play or sleep through the whole class, and other days they might need a little more attention. There’s no judgement at Manna - we get it!

    Join in as much or as little as feels right for you and your baby. Mums & Bubs is your class, your way.

MOVEMENT, SAFETY & SUPPORT

Feel supported to move, modify and progress in a way that works for you.

  • If you’re currently injured, recovering from an injury, have a medical condition or have any health concerns that may affect your ability to exercise, we recommend speaking with your GP, physiotherapist or relevant healthcare professional before attending class and following any advice or exercise restrictions they provide.

    Please let your instructor know about your injury, condition or any limitations before every class. This allows them to help you find suitable modifications and make your session as comfortable and appropriate as possible.

    Most importantly, listen to your body. If something causes pain, feels uncomfortable or doesn’t feel right, stop and let your instructor know. If you are feeling generally unwell on the day of your class, please stay home and rest until you are feeling better.

    Our Physiotherapy and Pilates teams work closely together, so if you’re recovering from an injury or looking to safely return to movement, we can help you understand whether group Pilates, clinical Pilates or individual physiotherapy support is the best place to start.

    Not sure if Pilates is right for you right now? Get in touch with our team before booking and we will help point you in the right direction.

  • That’s completely okay!

    Our instructors may sometimes use hands-on adjustments to help you understand a movement, find the right position or improve your technique, but you are always in control of whether you are comfortable with this.

    If you’d prefer not to be physically adjusted, simply let your instructor know before or during class. They’ll use verbal or visual cues instead and support you in finding the movement that feels right for you.

  • Absolutely! Our instructors can offer modifications to help make exercises more comfortable, accessible or appropriate for your body and your current level.

    Everyone moves differently, and you may be offered a different option, range of movement, spring setting or position depending on what you need on the day.

    If you have an injury, medical condition or specific restriction, please let your instructor know before class so they can take this into consideration.

    If you need more specific rehabilitation or clinical guidance, we may recommend working with one of our physiotherapists alongside your Pilates practice.

INTRO OFFER

Everything you need to know about getting started with our Intro Offer.

  • All of our group Pilates classes are included in the Intro Offer — yes, that even includes our Mums & Bubs classes! This gives you the freedom to explore a variety of sessions and discover what you enjoy most. Please note that our Physio-led clinical exercise classes which run in Darlington (such as our Over 55’s clinical exercise class) are not included as part of the Intro Offer.

    Please note that the Intro Offer has a 21-day expiry, so be sure to make the most of it and book your classes within that time frame.

  • Your Intro Offer is valid for 21 days from the date of purchase and includes 5 Reformer Pilates classes.

    We recommend booking your classes in advance so you can make the most of your 21 days.

    Something unexpected happened or you weren’t aware of the 21-day expiry? Please get in touch with our team and let us know what’s happened. We’re always happy to have a chat and see how we can help.

  • Yes! Mums & Bubs classes are included in our Intro Offer, so you can use your 5-class pass to try Mums & Bubs during your 21-day Intro Offer period.

21 day reset

Everything you need to know before you begin your 21 Day Reset.

  • Reformer Pilates Classes: 9 x Reformer Pilates classes (3 per week) in either of our beautiful studios

    Clinical Psychologist Group Session: initial small group session with our Principal Clinical Psychologist and Senior Pilates Instructor to introduce you to the studio and troubleshoot the barriers that make sustainable progress difficult for you

    Wellness Journal: custom Manna Wellness journal to set your intentions and track your progress

    Pilates Socks: pair of Pilates grip socks to start you on your journey

    Beautiful Location: set in the heart of the Guildford and Darlington villages surrounded by coffee shops, restaurants and bars it is the perfect place to grab a post workout coffee or weekend brunch

    Convenient Timetable: with over 70+ classes to choose from across our Guildford and Darlington locations, 7 days a week starting as early as 5.30am and as late as 7.30pm (visit our class timetable here).

  • $285 (valued at over $500)

    This includes the initial introduction session + 9 x Reformer Pilates classes + wellness journal + Pilates socks.

  • Welcome to Your 21-Day Reset Program

    Your journey begins with a personalised orientation session on your chosen start date and time. During this intimate induction (limited to two small groups of five), our Studio Manager & Senior Pilates Instructor, Barbi, will warmly welcome you, introduce you to the studio, and guide you through the reformer equipment to ensure you feel confident and at ease from day one.

    This session is also an opportunity to explore your personal goals and intentions for the program. Both Barbi and our Senior Clinical Psychologist, Greg, will be on hand to discuss your health and wellbeing aspirations. Together, you'll identify any unique barriers to building consistent habits, and begin shaping a routine that supports lasting change.

    As part of your induction, you’ll also receive your Wellness Journal and a pair of Pilates grip socks, so you'll be fully prepared to begin your classes.

    After your induction, you're free to book any classes that suit your lifestyle over the next 21 days. If you need help creating a schedule that fits seamlessly into your routine, Barbi will be happy to assist you during the session.

    We’re excited to share this tailored, transformative program with you and can’t wait to see your strength, confidence, and vibrance grow over the coming weeks.

  • The 21-Day Reset is designed for 3 classes per week. Attending fewer than 3 classes may limit the benefits of the program. If you cannot make 3 due to FIFO or other commitments, contact us and we’ll discuss options.

  • Yes! This program is beginner-friendly with no previous Pilates experience required.

    Pregnant or injured? That’s fine too! Speak with Barbi at your introduction session and she will ensure our instructors tailor your classes for your needs. If you are pregnant, please email through your GP clearance ahead of your introduction session. Refer to our website FAQs for more information on attending Pilates while pregnant.

  • Absolutely! With over 75 classes across our two Manna locations each week, you can choose any eligible class type and either location throughout your 21 Day Reset.

    Mix it up, try something new or stick with your favourite class - the choice is yours. We recommend aiming for 3 classes per week to make the most of your Reset.

  • Comfortable exercise clothing is suitable for the induction session and all classes. Of course you may bring a drink bottle to your classes to ensure you stay fully hydrated!

  • If you’re unable to attend the Reset Induction date, please contact us via phone on 6248 2553 or email at movement@mannawellness.com.au, as we can arrange for you to complete the program without attending the induction.

  • This program is designed specifically for new clients as an introductory experience to Pilates at Manna Wellness.

MEMBERSHIPS

Everything you need to know about your Manna membership.

  • We know that our members value the convenience and flexibility of a 28-day booking window. However, allowing this booking flexibility does also allow members to book unpaid classes in excess of their membership allocation. We kindly request that you do not book additional classes if you do not intend on using them (to avoid clogging up the class timetable).

    If you do want to attend additional classes, that is perfectly fine too! Additional classes will be automatically charged at a later date at a “members only” rate of $25 per class (instead of the usual $38 per class). We have created a special single class pass available to “members only” if you would prefer to purchase an additional class upfront. It is called “Additional Class (Members Only)”.

    Please note that you will not receive a notification when you go over your fortnightly class allotment. It is up to you to keep track of the number of classes you book within your fortnightly cycle, so if you do book an extra class, it won’t come as a surprise when you are charged. Our additional class fee will be strictly applied for all additional classes, including late cancels.

  • Yes! Manna members can pause their membership for up to 2 months in any calendar year, with a minimum pause period of 2 weeks.

    Heading away on holiday or travelling? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Simply pause your membership while you’re away and enjoy your trip without worrying about membership fees.

    Ready to pause your membership? Simply complete our online Membership Pause Form and we’ll take care of the rest.

  • Our memberships have no lock-in contract, however we do require 28 days’ notice for cancellations.

    To terminate your membership, simply complete our online Membership Termination Form. Cancellations made via text message, social media or verbally to a team member are not considered valid cancellation requests. Your membership will remain active during the 28-day notice period, so you’re welcome to continue attending classes as normal.

    If you simply require a temporary cancellation of your membership (i.e. due to injury, illness or holidays etc.), you are most welcome to pause your membership for up to 2 months per calendar year. Pauses can be made immediately and without notice via our online Membership Pause Form (refer to the FAQ above).

STUDIO & FACILITIES

Everything you need to know before you visit us.

  • Guildford Studio: parking is available to all clients in the Padbury building parking area (located on the eastern side of the building). Street parking is also available.

    Darlington Studio: there is ample parking available in the gravel parking area opposite the studio. Street parking is also available, though it can get busy during school drop-off/pick-up times, so give yourself plenty of time to find a spot.

    We have toilet facilities at both locations (which can be used as a change room if needed).