What is Pilates?

Pilates is a system of exercises developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates. Not only did Joseph Pilates use exercises performed upright and on the floor, but he also devised and used a variety of pieces of equipment such as the reformer. However, we are more concerned in a class situation with his matwork exercises. Since Joseph Pilates developed his system of exercises there have been many advances in our knowledge of how the body works, and the original exercises have been adapted to take this into account.

What is Functional Fitness?

Functional fitness is about training the body to be in balance. If someone naturally stands in a side bent position we can see that the right side of their body is different from their left - in other words we can see imbalance. With today's lifestyles imbalances are not always that obvious, but very common. For example, many people today have rounded shoulders and upper back. This is an imbalance between the front and the back of the body. Therefore to bring balance back into the body certain stretches and exercises need to be performed.

Functional fitness is also about how our body works, and in this case I refer to core function. Core function is about having deep abdominal muscles that do the job they are designed to - stabilize the spine. Back injuries, aches and pains are common complaints, and many are caused by poor abdominal function.

Probably the most commonly performed abdominal exercise is the sit-up. However, this does not improve core stability and function and can increase the rounded shoulders and upper back posture. There are other, far more appropriate abdominal exercises available to us, which you will learn about in my classes.

Pilates

As well as standing and floor exercises I also have a number of pieces of equipment for class use. Swiss balls are excellent tools that have been used by physiotherapists since the 1960s. They provide an unstable environment to train balance, strength and co-ordination - and are great fun. I also have a stock of medicine balls, foam blocks, rollers and soft balls that enable me to provide a greater variety of functional exercises.

If you wish to join one of my classes please contact me and book a place. There are a limited number of places to ensure that classes are not overcrowded. If you get through to one of my answerphones please leave a message and I will call you back.

Where to find my classes

Classes are usually held in the Hobbit function hall at the back of the main building. (Occasionally they are moved into the Coney Suite)

Monday 7-8pm

Wednesday 7-8pm

Saturday 10-11am

Classes are £10, payable on the day. Please note that I run a cancellation policy. If you are unable to attend a class you have booked I require 24 hours advance notice. If you do not cancel in time you will be asked to pay for your place.

Classes are suitable for all levels and abilities. We work in bare feet or socks, and I suggest wearing comfortable clothing that is close fitting so that I can see how your body is moving. Whilst participating in safe and effective exercise classes, I also hope you enjoy yourself and have fun! I look forward to welcoming you to my classes.