We had another full contingent for my latest Pilates masterclass – ‘Strike a Balance’, held on Saturday 27th September.
My masterclasses provide an opportunity to take one specific aspect of Pilates and develop a longer session in which to diver deeper. As the name suggests, this time we were working on balance.
As a Pilates Exercise Therapist, I work one-to-one with many clients who struggle with their balance and stability, and over the years I have developed specific exercise techniques to help improve both.
Balance is so important, not only to keep us upright, but also to allow us to be able to complete all our activities of daily living. We all want to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as possible throughout our lives, and for this, balance is not just useful, it’s essential! Activities like playing with grandchildren, dressing, gardening, getting something off a shelf and walking up and down stairs are tasks we take for granted when we are young, but these skills can become challenging if our ability to maintain balance declines
I like to make my Pilates classes as much fun as possible for my clients, and to provide different levels to challenge everyone sufficiently, but not excessively. I know everyone felt a real sense of achievement at the end of the session.
Each exercise out applied the principles of Pilates to help everyone to move and breathe correctly. It is when we focus on our core muscles that the magic happens, and we become stronger through the back, as well as a lot more stable.
I brought in several pieces of equipment that helped to add variety and fun to the movements, and challenge balance in a dynamic way, including balloons! We don’t often fall over when standing still, so learning how to balance in a dynamic and functional way prepares us and helps the brain learn new skills. Therefore, it is not only strengthening the muscles and training them to move which prevents falling, but stimulating the brain, too.
A big ‘well’ done everyone who gave up their Saturday morning to attend the masterclass! Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, too, which is much appreciated.
JM x
Testimonials
“It was fun, informative and at times challenging (in a good way!) I learnt a lot. The balloon games were fun and gave an opportunity to meet new people. There were plenty of variations/options if these were needed. Thank you, Jane.”
Ruth Lozano
“The masterclass was excellent as usual. Really enjoyed the balancing and thought the balloon game was very entertaining too. Enjoyed being challenged. Couldn’t find a better instructor Jane – you are a star – thank you so much!”
Kay Medhurst
“Such a useful session. Important for all of us to be aware of balance and associated exercises that can help to maintain it.”
Kim Wilcox
“Great class and it inspires you to keep at it! Jane is a very patient teacher, and she ensures we use the correct technique for you personally, be it standing, wall, floor or chair!”
Fiona Moloney
“I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed the class on Saturday. It really made me concentrate and I enjoyed every aspect even the arm work which I know I need to practice. Looking forward to the next Masterclass.”
Jane Wright
“I really enjoyed the class. The pace and exercises were just right, the instruction was clear and Jane made it fun!”
Sheila Haugh
“I really enjoyed the Balance masterclass Jane and wouldn’t change anything about it. The time flew by the challenges were great and the balloons a fun part of the morning. Lots of information about what we were doing and why which really helped. A lovely friendly class. Thank you for taking the time to do the class.”
Teresa Johnston
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