Benefits of Pilates, Stretching and Movement
Pilates can be for everyone.
Developed in the early 19th century by Joseph Pilates, it has become renowned for developing core strength, flexibility, balance and improved posture. As a weight bearing exercise it can prevent osteoporosis, moving and using muscles increases strength and prevent muscle wastage. Aside from that, it just feels good to get out and move.
Moving more gives you the capability to move more.
Pilates, stretching and simply moving is going to benefit your body whatever it's quirks. A mat is all that is required to do Pilates, but I do like some kit. It can add support or challenge to an exercise in a new way, whether it's a Pilates ball under your lower back or a block to support your head. Exercises can be modified to suit you, or alternatives given.
Up-to-date medical information is essential and always consult a doctor to discuss current medical issues before embarking on exercise.
Improve posture
Increase flexibility and balance
Strengthen core
Integrate mind and body
Pure Stretch
Developed by Ciaran Cashmore, it's a blend of Yoga, Pilates and her knowledge in Thai massage combined to create flowing movements and stretches to improve flexibility.
I love it!
Testimonials
'A combo of intensive physio and Pilates and I am feeling sooo much better. Separated core is finally improving.'
Jo 2022
'I have loved my Pilates classes with Michelle. As someone who has swerved exercise much of my life, I actually look forward to going. I am feeling stronger which helps my overall fitness and well-being. Michelle is kind and encouraging and looks after everyone.'
Emma 2022
'Absolutely love the Pilates classes and working with Michelle. I have been able to
Improve my core strength and flexibility. Michelle is great at providing alternative exercises if needed and always happy to share her knowledge and expertise.'
Sue, 2023
'My wins have to be the ability to complete almost all the Pilates tasks. Now have lost just over 3 stone ( 3 dress sizes ). Flexibility is key as you get older. When I joined I couldn’t do the sit up exercises even with a ball behind my back. Now it’s easy and no ball is needed. I have noticed a huge difference in my fitness and ability to keep up with the class. Absolutely love Pilates with Michelle. Best instructor ! '
Jackie 2024
‘Is chair pilates just sitting in a chair tapping feet and rolling your shoulders? Nooo, definitely not, it's a whole body, and brain workout! After hip or knee replacement, severe fracture, or just feeling stiff and creaky, it can be a tailored and gentle route back to fitness and health. Quite a bit of the chair part is standing behind or between chairs for stability and balance if you need it, it's remarkable how quickly things improve! Benefits are in core strength, muscle strength, improved flexibility and balance, it's definitely worth a try.
I thoroughly recommend Michelle's classes. She is so professional but classes are friendly and tailored to individuals - and they work! What a difference in my general strength and well being, I'm 73 and started using 1kg soft exercise balls in Michelle's class, I'm now lifting 2.5kg weights and feeling better and stronger all the time. Thank you Michelle!’
Sheila 2025
