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Pilates

The activation of the core (deep, postural) muscles of the body, as taught in Pilates, is I feel, an integral part of physiotherapy management for many conditions. Research has shown the importance of back and abdominal muscle strength in the management of back pain. However, people with neck, shoulder and lower limb problems to list a few, can also benefit enormously from improving core strength. In everyday life we constantly put our bodies through abnormal loading and stresses, and Pilates can help cope with these.

I have trained with the APPI in their 3 Matwork levels: Foundation; Class Instructor and Advanced Pilates, and also Pilates for Horse Riders. Pilates for Horse Riders aims to improve not only posture on the horse, but also the effectiveness of the seat and aids. Asymmetry of the rider through stiffness, weakness or even just habit can significantly restrict the way the horse moves, and at its worst can contribute to or even cause problems with the horse itself. No matter what level you ride at, Pilates for Horse Riders will benefit you and your horse. For this reason, joint Horse and Rider assessments are also now available to allow in depth analysis of horse and rider separately and as a combination.

Currently I run 2 Pilates classes, one standard and one Pilates for Horse Riders, but from Spring 2014 I will be looking to increase this number. If you are interested in having a class run in your area please get in touch. With all clients attending a Pilates class, a brief assessment will be necessary to ensure I am aware of any physical problems you may have, and enable me to modify any exercises accordingly.

ions can be arranged in groups or on a one to one basis.