How it started and where it is now

I discovered the benefits of Pilates first hand after experiencing recurrent lower back pain. After my son was born, I began attending classes and soon found that my symptoms were improving. I also enjoyed the time out to focus on myself and to move my body in a mindful way. I loved the feeling of having used every muscle in an energising, rather than depleting way.

It was after the birth of my daughter that I began to wonder if I could teach Pilates, and in 2018 I took the plunge and trained as an Instructor whilst at home raising my young children. I have been teaching classes since 2019 and feel privileged to be helping others feel the benefits that I have.

In 2021 I achieved an additional mat Pilates teaching qualification with APPI (Australian Physiotherapy & Pilates Institute) to support my interest in Pilates for rehabilitation. I have completed a Mindfulness and Pilates course through APPI and include a short mindfulness based practice at the end of each session. Having a strong personal meditation practice as well as having completed a 12 week mindfulness for life course, I believe in the benefits of paying attention to the body and breath, softening into tension rather than resisting it.

I previously worked for many years in Local Authority and have a degree in Youth and Community work. Although what I do now is different, classes can provide a sense of community through a shared interest which I feel is important for our emotional well-being.

I am passionate about making exercise accessible and have worked 1:1 with a client with disabilities for many years (she has made incredible progress with mobility and strength, credit to her hard work and determination).

Where mobility presents an issue for getting down to the mat, I adapt Pilates classes in seated and standing, teaching these sessions for over 50's through local charity Wimbledon Guild and for seniors at Morden Baptist Church.

Most recently I have qualified in Functional Rehabilitation & Exercise Training After Stroke and will deliver active stroke rehab classes through Wimbledon Guild. This has driven my interest in Pilates for neurological injury and disease and I have completed a short course to integrate Pilates with my new qualification.

My relevant certifications are as follows:

APPI Certified Mat-work Pilates Instructor
Functional Rehabilitation & Exercise Training After Stroke with the ARNI Institute (Action Rehabilitation from Neurological Injury) at BSc level 4 accredited through Middlesex University.
Level 3 Pilates Diploma, Future Fit
Level 3 Award: Designing Pre and Post Natal Exercise Programmes, Future Fit
Course: Neuro-Pilates (APPI)
Course: Kids & Teens Pilates (APPI)
Course: Pilates for Common Orthopaedic Conditions (Future Fit)
Course: Pilates and the Menopause (APPI)
Course: Pilates and Mindfulness (APPI)
Course: Pilates with small equipment (Future Fit)