It’s safe to say that Pilates is the trending workout of the year so, when health writer, Katie Sims, was offered a stay on a retreat with instructor, Tara Riley, she jumped at the chance. Here, she reveals what happened on this unique wellbeing escape…
What happened when I went on a Pilates retreat
It’s safe to say, I’m in need of some R&R.
After a rowdy flight from Manchester to Ibiza (think more party than Pilates), I step through the doors of La Bohemia del Rio, a gorgeous hotel located on the east coast of Ibiza. Slightly frazzled and ready to relax, I’m instantly soothed by what I find.
Calming, earthy tones of the surrounding décor greet me, swiftly followed by the hotel’s friendly team.
My fellow retreat goers, I’m told, are already here and in the midst of a Pilates flow. So, without further delay, I drop my bags at reception and sneak in at the back of the class. It turns out that a downward-facing dog is just the tonic for a day spent travelling.
As the class winds down, Tara invites us all to sit and introduce ourselves, with the option to say as little or as much as we want.
I start to feel myself relax as the conversation moves around the room. This is my first retreat, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little apprehensive at the thought of spending four nights with a group of strangers. But, straight from the off, I can see that it’s a great gang.
Everyone is friendly, warm, and welcoming. A few of the guests already know each other from Tara’s London-based studio, but some, like me, are here for the first time to try something new.
Barre and Pilates: the perfect pairing
Each morning of the retreat begins in the hotel courtyard with an energising barre class led by Tara.
I’m a total beginner when it comes to this form of movement – and it’s a lot more challenging than it looks.
Thankfully, Tara is a complete pro, keeping the group motivated throughout. As we move, pulse and flow to the music, I can feel myself working muscles I didn’t even know I had. The method uses strength-based exercises with resistance bands and Pilates balls to work the whole body.
“Barre is energising, uplifting and tough,” says Tara. “A little bit of hard work in the morning really gives you a nice boost for the day!”
Pilates follows in the late afternoon at around 5.30pm. Here, we move at a slower pace, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less challenging, working the core in a steadier, deeper way.
“The more you can keep your core strong, the more you can mobilise your joints through a full range of motion,” explains Tara. “Pilates is amazing for building mobility and evening out any imbalances in the body.”
Time to unwind
Between classes, things are very laid-back. After a healthy brunch (think protein-packed omelettes, tasty avocado toast and tempting pastries and pancakes) we’re free to do as much or as little as we please.
I spend most days lazing by the pool, occasionally ambling around the local area to stretch my legs in the afternoons. Ibiza town is only a short car journey away for those seeking something a little more lively, too.
Our evening meals are equally relaxed – featuring sharing dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. My favourite? It has to be the duck salad, and a tempting spinach and pea dip.
“As women, we don’t really allow ourselves the time or space to stop,” Tara says. “But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand the importance of taking time for yourself.”
And that’s what this retreat truly encapsulates. It’s four nights away where you can do exactly as you please, with every thought, desire and whim taken care of.
A chance to recharge
Since coming home, I’ve realised just how much the retreat has made me appreciate the importance of ‘me time’.
While I no longer have a team of staff prepping my meals, I’ve made sure to keep on track with regular Pilates and barre sessions thanks to Tara’s on-demand service. There’s something about the combination of these workouts that makes me feel like I’m ticking all the boxes: stretching, strengthening and even a healthy dose of cardio.
“There are plenty of retreats that are spiritually focused, but that’s not really my style,” admits Tara. “I didn’t want anyone to feel like they were going on some sort of journey to heal themselves, but I do think switching off and enjoying time for yourself, however you please, can be just as empowering.”
