Pilates Class for Beginners with Sally Bryant. Fundamental Mat Work. The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises, developed over 90 years ago by Joseph Pilates. It strengthens and tones muscles, aligns the spine and creates flexibility and balance. Sally has been teaching Pilates for 10 years and has danced professionally, being trained at the Royal Ballet School. She has knowledge of working with the body using holistic massage breath therapy and Reiki healing.