I have been practising Pilates since 2002 and teaching since 2005. I had no background of dance or fitness but simply started taking Pilates classes after physio advice and was immediately impressed by the effect it had on my body, particularly the low grade back ache I had been putting up with for years. Not only does it strengthen, tone and make your body more flexible, it is a lovely form of exercise, which quietens your mind and releases tension.

My qualifications I trained with the Body Control Pilates Association (www.bodycontrol.co.uk) and am qualified in “Pilates Matwork” and “Pilates and Pregnancy”. I then went on to qualify in Studio Equipment and Classical Matwork through the  Contrology Studios in Sarratt, London (www.contrology-pilates-method.com). I am also qualified as a level 3 Pilates Advanced Instructor, to take GP Referrals and as a Level 4 Exercise Specialist for Management of Back Pain on the Register of Exercise Professionals (www.exerciseregister.org). The Body Control Specialist Back Pain Course has also been recognized by (www.backcare.org.uk) the leading UK Charity dealing with Back Pain as a safe and effective method of exercise for those with back pain issues.

Body Control Pilates is a Registered Trade Mark used under licence.

My philosophy My aim as a teacher is to make this wonderful form of exercise accessible and manageable for everyone while still maintaining the essence of the original classical mat programme devised by Joseph Pilates. I believe clients should be introduced gently to the principles of Pilates, with exercises modified where necessary but ultimately to build up strength and stamina to help clients work towards achieving the more challenging exercises in the original programme. Practising Pilates is a continual learning process - there is always more to understand about the method and ways to enhance the movement – but you will reap the benefits of a stronger, more flexible, toned and graceful body along the way.

My classes Group classes take place at the Global Clinic in Norwich and numbers are limited to 10 to allow me to give personal attention to all those participating. If you have a specific injury or condition it may be necessary to do some private lessons before joining a class but even within the group classes, there is plenty of scope for working at your own level and within your body’s capabilities.

What to Expect Please wear loose comfortable clothing and bring a pair of socks as shoes are not required. Pilates is more dynamic than yoga but less aggressive and high-impact than step or aerobics. Pilates exercises target not just our stronger muscles, but also the weaker ones too. Initially matwork classes are mainly floor based. (If you have problems getting up and down from the floor a private or Studio sessions using the equipment would probably suit you better).

The result is a properly balanced body, with better joint mobility, toned muscles and a good, natural posture. Pilates helps you achieve this posture by strengthening the centre of the body to support the lower back, helping you to stand straight and hold your upper body correctly.