ABOUT
Pilates is a comprehensive exercise method developed by its creator Joseph Pilates to improve physical and mental health. Pilates focuses on building your body's core strength and improving your posture through a series of low repetition, low impact, stretching and conditioning exercises. Through regular Pilates classes you will strengthen the entire deep global stabilising muscles that support the spine, improve flexibility, build strength and develop an awareness of how your body works, helping the mind and body to work in harmony.
Jo’s Journey to becoming a Pilates Instructor
After many years of studying accountancy, desk bound and gym training with bad posture, I was having regular maintenance appointments with my osteopath. She constantly recommended Yoga or Pilates and I did use to attend the Yoga class at my local gym. Whilst I love Yoga I struggled finding the strength to do even the basic exercises and that’s when I discovered Pilates, I came out of the class feeling about four inches taller and the following few days were a dream, no back ache, better posture and for me that was it, I was hooked. My husband planted the seed; ‘perhaps you could teach Pilates if you love it so much’, and a few weeks later I was investigating courses.
I studied with Health and Fitness Education (HFE) who provide courses with the UK’s largest certifying body; CYQ and in June 2014 I qualified as a Level 3 Mat Pilates Instructor.
Age, medication (from a previous condition), genetics and years of incorrect posture eventually took its toll and in 2015, a year after I qualified, I was diagnosed with a hip injury and Osteoporosis. This drove me to learn more about the body and to use exercise as an alternative medicine. I have gone on to complete further training as an Exercise Specialist helping clients with chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity and low back pain and working with Special Populations; exercise referral and older adults.
Pilates is my passion and I am continuously learning and developing my exercise knowledge and knowing that I can help others to keep moving safely is the greatest feeling.
Pilates can have the following benefits:
Strengthens muscles though controlled activation exercises focusing on lengthening and stretching
Build core stability and flatter abs
Efficient movement and better performance
Diminishes Stress and anxiety
Improves posture, spine flexibility and balance
Recommended by doctors, physiotherapists and chiropractorsfor rehabilitation/ recovery
Adaptable for ages and abilities
Qualifications
Level 3 Diploma REPS accredited Mat Pilates Instructor
Level 4 Certificate in Physical Activity for the Management of Low Back Pain
Level 3 Diploma in Exercise Referral
Level 3 Award Exercise Considerations for Independently Active Older Adults
