Move and feel better with Anita Benoit Pilates

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Pilates is a form of exercise that helps to improve balance, posture, strength and flexibility throughout the body. We move the spine in every direction and pay particular attention to strength and stability in the core. Pilates is suitable for most people and the exercises can be adapted to make them more or less challenging. Pilates is a form of body-mind movement where exercises flow and we pay attention to our breathing/how the body is feeling in the moment.

Classes are friendly and supportive and suitable for both ladies and men. Everyone is welcomed and offered adaptations/guidance where appropriate to enhance both the exercise and the movement experience.

Most of us spend more time than ideal in the same position (e.g. sitting/hunched over devices/children etc), so it is healthy we counteract this by moving the spine in all directions, helping ease aches and pains. We do plenty of functional movements (e.g. squats) to mirror and strengthen muscles and bones for the demands of every day life. We do lots of stretching and deep breathing to help ease tension (when paying attention we often realise we are breath holding or clenching). We finish each session with a short mindfulness based meditation to find space amongst the busyness of the mind to promote overall feelings of wellbeing.

I discovered the benefits of Pilates myself through experiencing recurrent lower back pain. I began attending classes and found my symptoms improving. In 2018 I took the plunge and trained as a Pilates Instructor whilst at home raising my young children. 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 offer a sense of community. I am passionate about making exercise accessible and where mobility prevents people getting to the floor, I offer adapted classes in seated and standing. Most recently I have qualified in Functional Rehabilitation & Exercise Training After Stroke and lead sessions for local charity, Wimbledon Guild. 

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)