In Practice, Volume IV — Martha Watson-Allpress
At Basic Space, our teachers are at the heart of everything we do. In Practice is a closer look at the people behind the class.
An honest glimpse into their rhythms, rituals, and perspectives on movement—what inspires them, grounds them and brings them joy both on and off the mat.
Whilst working Front of House and eventually managing boutique fitness studios for over three years, Martha became enamoured with how group fitness deepens the mind-body connection and strengthens muscles you didn't even know you had.
She finally decided to train as an instructor and hasn't looked back since. Bringing her love of good tunes, good chat and good fun, Martha's classes are inclusive, encouraging and oh so spicy.
When she's not in the Reformer Studio, Martha works as a writer for stage and screen.
How does your practice look outside of the studio?
It’s really varied! I try to be a student as much as possible, because I think it helps me stay in love with Pilates and bring that love into teaching. But recently I’ve been trying to better cross-discipline my workouts. I drank the Reformer Kool Aid a long time ago, and it’ll always be my first love, but I’ve really been enjoying Barre and Spin recently. Moving to music gets me through.
What does balance mean to you, and has your understanding of it changed over time?
Oh Lord, if anyone feels they are leading a truly balanced life TELL ME YOUR SECRETS. For me balance is relinquishing the quest for perfection, and the temptation of comparison. I absolutely have not mastered it, but bit by bit.
Are there other forms of creativity or self-expression that feed your movement practice?
Well outside of teaching my other job is as a screenwriter. Which feels wildly different to Reformer, obviously, but I do think moving the body helps move the brain. Also, writing’s a really solitary job, so it teaching is really how I find community.
What kind of space do you hope to create for your students?
Reformer has been co-opted on social media by a certain aesthetic that doesn’t sit right with me. It’s a discipline that anyone and everyone should feel comfortable and confident to try. So I hope to create an inclusive space, and a really fun one too! I think if you can build a good relationship with exercise, than the good relationship with you body simply follows.
How do you hope people feel when they leave your class?
My classes are challenging, I know that, but I’d love for people to leave proud of what they’ve accomplished and a bit more attuned to their body.
What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you outside of teaching?
I’m such a chronic oversharer I think my students know a lot about my life haha! But I think people might be surprised that I’m actually a pretty introverted person. Being alone is how I recharge and I’m happiest on my couch watching a true crime documentary.
What’s a small daily thing that makes a big difference to your mood?
I’m a princess and my husband brings me a coffee in bed every single morning. It means I start my day feeling loved and considered. (I know this is sappy but I just got married so yes, yuck, but also, awh).
When can we practice with you?
Mondays 930am Strength + 1230pm Reformer Strength Camberwell