YOGA/PILATES

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of yoga are postures (a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility) and breathing. The practice originated in India about 5,000 years ago, and has been adapted in other countries in a variety of ways. Yoga is now commonplace in leisure centres, health clubs, schools, hospitals and surgeries.

Dozens of scientific trials of varying quality have been published on yoga. While there's scope for more rigorous studies on its health benefits, most studies suggest yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity, especially strength, flexibility and balance. There's some evidence that regular yoga practice is beneficial for people with high blood pressure, heart disease, aches and pains – including lower back pain – depression and stress.

WHAT IS YOGA?

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

PILATES

WHAT IS PILATES?

Pilates aims to strengthen the body in an even way, with particular emphasis on core strength to improve general fitness and wellbeing. Pilates exercises are done on a mat or using special equipment, such as the Reformer, the Cadillac and Wunda Chair. With its system of pulleys and springs, handles and straps, the apparatus can provide either resistance or support, depending on your needs.

Pilates was developed by German-born Joseph Pilates, who believed mental and physical health were closely connected. His method was influenced by western forms of exercise, including gymnastics, boxing and Greco-Roman wrestling. Pilates immigrated to the US in the 1920s and opened a studio in New York, where he taught his method – which he called contrology – for several decades.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PILATES?

There are many reports on the health benefits of pilates. However, few of these have been subjected to rigorous scientific examination and there's a need for more research in this area. Practitioners say regular pilates practise can help improve posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility, as well as relieve stress and tension. For elite athletes, including dancers, pilates can complement their training by developing whole body strength and flexibility, motor patterning and help reduce the risk of injury.

Conditions that benefit from pilates:

Hypermobility syndrome
Low back pain
Rheumatological conditions
Systemic and whole body conditions

WHO IS PILATES/YOGA FOR?

Pilates and yoga has something to offer people of all ages, levels of ability and fitness. We see people who range from beginners to elite athletes. The level of intensity can be adapted to provide support for beginners and people with certain medical conditions. Alternatively we can increase the resistance for people looking to challenge their body. We do require you to complete a health/consent form. Before starting any exercise programme, it's advisable to seek advice from a physiotherapist or your GP if you have any health concerns, such as a heart condition or an injury.

WHAT WE OFFER?

We currently offer these options below that apply for both pilates and yoga. They can be carried out in your health club, home, church hall, and outside (weather depending) etc.

1 person (1 hour) - £42.00

2 people (1 hour) - £25.00 each

3 people (1 hour) - £20.00 each

You may need a physiotherapy assessment prior to yoga/pilates if you are using these modalities as a form of treatment.