Pilates Comes to St Peter’s

Pilates is currently one of the most popular methods of exercise – a recent convert being Pippa Middleton! It was developed almost 100 years ago by Joseph Pilates as a result of trying to improve his own health and then teaching fitness and exercise to soldiers during the first world war. He described it as ‘complete co-ordination of body, mind and spirit’.

Today Pilates is practiced by people of all ages and abilities and is a highly effective low impact way to stretch, strengthen and streamline your body. It focuses on core stability and can help restore the natural curves of the spine, relieve tension and enhance self confidence. It is also great for improving balance, co-ordination, circulation, strength, flexibility, relieving aches and pains and helping with back, neck and shoulder problems.

The most effective way to learn Pilates is in a small group with a fully qualified instructor so that individual needs can be taken into account and modifications, corrections and help given to ensure safety and maximum benefit from the exercises. Pilates is very much about ‘how’ each exercise is performed in order to realise the full benefits. By working in a small group there is time to give consideration to posture type, health issues and individual needs so that the most appropriate version of the exercise is given.

Helen Eggington has over five years experience of teaching Pilates and is fully qualified in mat-work. Her classes involve learning the basic principles of Pilates, correct alignment and a series of mat-based exercises which are carried out slowly with focus, control and concentration. Each person is assisted to work at their own pace and level of ability within the class.

Helen will be running introductory taster sessions at St Peter's Church Centre on Tuesday 6th September 9.30 to 10.30am and Wednesday 7th September 1.30 to 2.30pm, cost £7 per session. If you would like to give it a go please contact Helen to book a place on 07796 270909, e-mail helen@eggington.com .