Pilates with Orchid Fitness

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a series of exercises based on strengthening your core and joint stability muscles. These are the muscles which help to support the body's internal organs, the spine, shoulders, hips and knees. They help us to stand and move correctly during everyday life. These muscles can become weak, due to poor posture, injury or illness. Developed by Joseph Pilates, it has been used as a form of exercise and rehabilitation since the turn of the century.

It can help to:

• Relieve Stress
• Strengthen muscles, including pelvic floor and spine
• Aid breathing and improve posture

Modern Pilates

Cherry Baker and Christopher Norris developed Modern Pilates combining the stability techniques used in physiotherapy with traditional Pilates elements.

Pilates Training

Nikki Hamblings Pilates training was undertaken with Modern Pilates. The tutors included Cherry Baker and Jenny Heron.

Modern Pilates is based on the original works of German-born Joseph Pilates who designed a series of exercises that uses both mental and physical techniques to condition the body. His methods were used primarily by dancers, however, in recent years these methods have been introduced into the health and fitness industry.

Many things have changed since Joseph Pilates first developed his techniques. Modern Pilates combines his principles with all the latest research and knowledge about fitness, exercise and core stability, to give you a balanced programme of safe and effective exercises.

The programme has been designed by Cherry Baker and physiotherapists Chris Norris and Jenny Heron. Modern Pilates runs in-depth teacher training programmes throughout the UK. This programme of exercise has been featured in Health and Fitness, Zest Magazine, Sky TV and has been represented at many of the UK's major health and fitness conventions.

What to look for in a Pilates class

As a new client you are asked to complete a questionnaire regarding health, well-being and injury. If needed a referral from your doctor or practitioner may be required.

Classes with 12 or fewer participants for improver and above; 10 or fewer for beginners.

Individual attention, help and correction offered in 1-2-1 sessions; to a lesser intensity within the group classes.

Constant observation and communication with both the group and individually.

Classes run on a course basis to allow me to get to know you individually, develop specific exercises or adaptations and change exercises each term.

Classes which use a variety of teaching aids, full length mats, blocks, bands, knobbly balls and various support methods for individual use. Equipment such as blocks and supports to enable me to offer adaptations where appropriate.

Pre and post natal clients are catered for on a one to one basis or within the group classes.

Group Classes, are run as courses; usually in conjunction with the school terms. I do run classes during the school summer holidays. Costs vary depending on the class that you are attending.

What will I gain from Modern Pilates?

Modern Pilates is a method of exercise that will condition and tone the body. Its methods are very different from many traditional types of exercise. The aim is to work muscles from the inside out, creating a stronger flatter mid section, improved posture, muscle balance, realigning the spine and improving both the function and appearance of the body.

Modern Pilates is a relaxing and individual programme which works both the body & mind. Modern Pilates is also aimed at relieving stress and can help improve sleep patterns and tension, specifically in the neck and shoulders.

Why choose a Modern Pilates Teacher?

Modern Pilates is a training programme that is taught by physiotherapist and advanced exercise teachers. Modern Pilates training programmes are only offered to physiotherapist, sports therapist and experienced and qualified exercise teachers and personal trainers. Modern Pilates teachers have to pass extensive theory exams present case studies and plan both progressive and remedial programmes. The final assessment is based around hours of observed teaching and a final practical assessment.