THE HOME OF
PILATES FUSION
Combining the well known life changing wonders of Pilates with the many benefits of lifting weights. Join me online, in local classes and on the beach!
You can’t improve on Pilates
but you can add in some resistance and strength work.
Live Online Classes
Extensive Library
1-2-1 & Teach on the Beach
Events & Pop-Up Classes
Let's be social....
When we went online way back in March 2020, we met daily for Pilates but also for companionship and support.
5 years later, our online community has grown and grown.
While I totally “get” wanting to be in person, in class, what us onliners have gained is a convenience, a new routine, a daily fix - while perhaps it used to be about trailing off to one class a week, now I see most people several times a week with the ease and convenience of being able to log in anywhere.
However, while we roll up, roll over, stretch, mobilise and lift weights through the week, one thing we all acknowledge is the community we have.
So many have said that as much as you enjoy the classes (phew!) it’s having the access to friends every day that gives such a boost. Only recently, one person who was rehabbing an injury, messaged me to say she was going to log in just to be part of the class and have the company as she missed us all so much.
It’s not just once a week. Most of you log on, meet up, check in, work out and have a quick natter most weekdays before you go about the rest of your day.
What we also value is our get togethers, born from lockdown and being online.
We have been to Kefalonia and France, head off for local walks and lunches, have had a couple of day trips to the Isle of Wight and our annual Christmas lunch gets bigger every year.
Today 15 of us met up in London for a private tour of Battersea power station. It was absolutely fascinating and a really interesting trip and I definitely recommend it!
It was followed by a HUGE lunch at Dishoom. We had planned a river boat trip up the Thames but that’s for another time, and we all made our various ways back home, ready to see one another online, on our mats tomorow.
I will honestly never stop my online classes. I love my members - you are my online family - we all have our funny ways, our individual traits and our eccentricities and that’s just like any family! but we truly care so much about eachother, really enjoy seeing one another and it means the world to me.
This week’s blog is going to be “The unlikely comparison between Battersea power station and Pilates”. Don’t believe me? Watch this space 🤣🤣
How are you getting on with your #junechallenge?
100 squats, 100 crunches (5 variations) 50 push ups daily.
Do you need a refresh?
Grab one heavy dumbbell and trade up some squats for
➡️ RDL to bicep curl to deep squat
➡️ High march to standing weighted rotation
And swap up 20 crunch options for 10 each way of
➡️ standing/kneeling halo
Pink overload totally up to you 💕
#dontstopnow #gottalovepink #keeeepsquattibg #standingabsworkout #iamasweatybetty
Posting a voice over while on the train. What’s not to ❤️?
Some fantastic misinterpretations from “captions” but not to worry.
Just me faffing about on the roller, waffling on quite a bit, and then editing and posting while riding the SW to Waterloo en route to see Fiddler on the roof at The Barbican, because that’s how I roll 😘😘
Hope you enjoy… da da dadadadadaaaa dadadadada dadadaaaaaa…
#foamroll #pilatesroller #pilatesontheroller #fiddlerontheroof #swtrains #landantarn #outout #thebarbican #dontdovoiceoversonabusytrain #iamasweatybetty
WHAT a week!
Pilates, walking, learning… a lot of laughing. New friendships, lots of debate, 20 hours of Pilates, 500 squats, 250 pushups.
Talking Aldi reformers, accreditation and calamari!
The best week I’ve had in ages. I LOVE working with @mkpilates and return full of energy and passion.
For my take on the week, please head to Latest News on my website (link to blog in bio) and the best bit? They’re doing it again next year and you’re invited!
Thank you M&M ❤️
Amazing to meet you @ncorepilates and @elementarywellbeing and to see you again @tali_studio_pilates
Thank you for your hospitality @amiraluxuryresort and @flow.with.mira and see you next year!
#pilatesincrete #crète #amiraluxuryh #tootsontour #themethod
Apparently there is a lot in the media atm about dogs doing Pilates.
Probably better I keep my opinions on that to myself (but canine core strength tho? Really?)
Better known perhaps is the saying “never work with children or animals”….
Well this morning we were all very happy. No canine core workout required but lots of interest in why I was rolling around on the floor, lots of little kisses and the best possible company.
We didn’t feel the need to bring Pilates to the (dog) mat but we felt that teaching online outside in the garden was only enhanced by doggos shuffling around to say hello 🐶💕❤️
Do you notice Bertie is fast asleep throughout and hasn’t moved 🤣🤣
Must remember that my mic is pretty powerful and picks up every little sound, even the tiniest whisper when I’m secretly telling Gretl how beautiful she is and inadvertently share that with the whole class 💕
#gallopingretl #bertiethemagnificent #goldenretrieversofinstagram #dogsdopilates #pilatesfordogs #pilatesonlineworks #pilatesoutside #alwaysworkwithdoggos #iamasweatybetty
Sunday stretch.
A gentle sequence to mobilise the spine and shoulders.
Cat (spinal flexion) to Cow (spinal extension) to Threading the needle (spinal rotation, chest opening and some shoulder mobility). 💕
#sundaystretch #sundaystretching #catcow #threadtheneedlepose #threadtheneedle #iamasweatybetty
3 of our moves from Friday morning.
By combining moves we can make the exercise more complex - coordination, balance and getting us to think about where we are going and staying consistent.
Here we are mixing upper and lower body to give us an express strength hit. I should have gone heavier on my weights - I wimped out but I am lifting beyond my shoulder line which is a) not ideal and b) tells me I should be heavier! But at least I’m fantastically colour coordinated 💕🤛🏻
(I did go heavier in ex.3 hence the occasional gurning and less chatting🤣)
1. Leg extension - lots of quads challenge but be careful not to lean back so plenty of abs/back strength included. Good balance challenge here too. When you extend at the knee try to keep your knee inline with your hip. Flex your foot for added kick. Followed with alternate front raises.
2. Alternate chest fly into Dead lift - hinging at the hip to load up the hamstrings (balancing out after that hefty quads load in the previous exercise) and also a fantastic way to build back strength along with the flyes.
3. Reverse lunge into bicep curl. Reverse lunges are typically more challenging as we have to focus on where we are going without being able to see so improving proprioception.
Try to change the leading side on every rep.
We did 45 seconds on, 15 seconds break, 2 rounds. Done and dusted.
#womenliftingweights #strongnotskinny #strengthtraining #womenliftweightstoo #iamasweatybetty
A little Friday morning mash up.
Familiar moves with sine added power.
1.Hip thrust /bridge to sit up. Try and get your hips a lot higher then I was here!!
2. Seated tricep dips - elbows pony backwards with hands narrow - watch those shoulders don’t hunch up
3. Heel taps - remember to hinge at the hip and keep the angle of the knee constant
4. Option to progress - left head and/or double heel tap but make sure you keep those bottom ribs on the floor
10 reps of each, 3 rounds, no breaks.
Have fun 💕
#pilatesonline #pilatesmashup #pilatesfusion #womenandweights #iamasweatybetty
Wrists!!
Please don’t just accept weak wrists. A strong wrist and a strong grip will ensure you can always get the lid off the new jar of jam and reduce the chance of you paying A&E a visit later down the line after a fall (which won’t happen as we do so much balance work 🤣) with little broken wrists!
With a nod to possible osteo restrictions or historical fractures, we can find ways to improve and work with what we have to develop stronger bones, muscle and better joint action.
There are ways to adapt hand position - for example folding up a small towel and putting it under the heels of your hands will elevate and reduce the acute angle through the wrist so if you are not sure, always ask but try not to avoid!!
After all… there may not always be someone to help you unscrew that lid!
#wrists #wriststrength #wriststrengthening #wristmobility #onlineworks #iamasweatybetty
Fierce Friday 🔥🔥
Our Friday 8am strength class.
Today we did a class of two halves. Lower body focus. Swift recovery. Upper body. It was very hot!!
Supersetting. 4 rounds. 5 exercises. 6 reps. No break.
💕 Deadlift to squat
💞 Plank to Pike with weight
💕 Hip thrust to walk out
💞 Double leg lift/lower
💕 Seated Double leg side to side
😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
💕 Criss cross to narrow row
💞 Bent over fly to row to kickback
💕 Elevated curl to Arnold’s
💞 Front/side raise to round the world
💕 Hammer curls
Online members - this is going up in The Snack bar in the library as two short (ish) weights sessions.
You don’t need to find a full hour. Ten mins will do as long as you kept finding those 10 mins. Will 10 mins make a difference? Well it’s 10 mins more than you might have done so yes it will!
We have loads of short blasts in The Snack bar for that very reason - 10 mins abs focus, 15 mins hip mobility, 10 mins upper body weights, 15 mins pure mat Pilates etc., etc….
10 mins here or there, repeated regularly will absolutely make all the difference.
Have a great weekend 💕
#womenliftweights #womenpickupyourweights #strenghtforwomen #weighttrainingforwomen #10minworkout #snackbarworkouts #onlineworks #iamasweatybetty
Tuesday 8am The 34 Moves.
We blasted through in 30 mins, all 34 ticked off ✔️
Got to admit, I was definitely not on my A game (too much bloody cycling) and too much self analysis and self criticism putting the reel together… couldn’t bear to share my dreadful arms in 100, (full apology on recording in library), lateral rotation on supporting leg in leg pull supine… not great thoracic extension in inversion work..the list goes on… it was a very tired body to work with this morning BUT I was on the mat, I loved teaching you and it was 34 exercises more than if I’d wimped out.
Just keep turning up.
I mean - to be fair, I have to. Im the teacher 🤣 but a little voice at 7 this morning was suggesting I could take plan b and be up at the screen with my coffee ☕️
But then what hypocrite I? I’d said I was going to run through and I did… not as well as most of you and that makes me SO PROUD of you!!
Consistency is more important than perfection. We don’t always need to be 💯%. We just need to keep getting on the mat more often than we don’t!
Can’t really wimp out when I have attending the class, a post 40 miles run over weekend, a running fall injury, a hiking fall injury… yes, yes…. They knew what their were doing… they knew how to adapt…
You will notice in true fashion, photo quality, hair and makeup do not feature high on list.
Anyway, my fuelling needs serious attention, (can’t wait for tonight’s #teatimetalk on nutrition - link in bio 😉), I’m struggling atm to marry my weights work with my endurance training but I still ❤️❤️❤️ the brilliance, the flow, the sequencing of The 34 moves. Strength, stretch, mobility, control, coordination, discipline, focus, full body workout right there!
(Must remember to either a) wear something on my feet to put the bins out on Tuesdays or b) wash my feet 🫣)
Literally nothing to do with pony clubs, pink or otherwise but don’t you just love an @altego_music mash up 💕🤛🏻💃
#justkeepturningup #pinkponyclub #altgeo #iamasweatybetty #34moves #pilatesonline
Standing stretches for cyclists.
1. Standing Cat /Cow - lumbar mobility
2. Roll down - spinal mobility with some hamstring focus
3. Hamstring to calf - complete with pointing ?!
4. Hip flexor stretch
5. Standing Hip opener/glute stretch
6. Chest opener. Couple of options
7. Double arm circles - circulation and just stress bust those shoulders
8. Inner thigh stretch
9. Inner thigh, hamstrings, lumbar mobility, chest opener, rotation.
You don’t need to ride a bike in order to do these stretches.
You don’t actually need to own a bike at all in order to do these stretches
Always stretch/mobilise a warmed up body.
Please don’t follow me for fashion tips 💃 or how to do perfect reels.
Happy cycling 🚴
Happy Sunday ❤️
#cyclestrech #postcyclerecovery #stretchwhileriding #bikelife #dontfollowmeforstyleadvice #cycleeventcomingup #cyclenewforest @lym_triclub
Nourishment.
As we enter #stressawarenessmonth what better time for a check in?
When I worked @juicemasterretreats we talked about a full detox. Green juice for the gut and a total break from processed food but what about all the other invisible toxins?
We discussed trying to cut back on screen time, staying away from news channels, practicing exercise, stretch and breath, getting plenty of rest and recovery and fuelling with educational material, fresh and healthy nutrition, fresh air, movement and rest.
As we head towards a sunny weekend what extra nourishment can you give yourself?
Choose wisely 🙏💕
#choosewisely #nourishment
It can be so frustrating.
We live in an instant gratification world. One click of a button brings almost anything we want to our door.
If it’s not next day delivery, have you ever tried somewhere else because you “literally can’t wait? I know I have.
Except that our bodies do not work that way. It will not happen overnight, no matter what junk you read, promising miracle fixes. They do not exist.
Lifestyle changes and commitment to the long term end game. That’s what brings results.
You don’t need to smash your PB every time you work out. You do not need to give 100% every time you get on your mat or step into the gym.
Sometimes you can skip a set or go lighter on the weights or take the less challenging level. This WILL NOT destroy your progress. This is acknowledging real life with the ebbs and flow of energy and motivation.
Setting unrealistic goals and targets that are unsustainable- that’s what will destroy progress. Destroying your confidence along with your motivation, leaving you feeling a failure - that’s what will destroy your progress.
Whether you choose a gentle session, or swap a weights session for a walk in the fresh air, or enjoy a stretch and some mindfulness practise in place of that killer strength session that you had planned… just keep turning up.
Try not to say “I’ll do it tomorrow when I am not so tired”… tomorrow can easily dissapear into next month.
Turn up to your mat at the time you had planned. Be accountable to yourself. Take ownership for your progression.
I promise you there have been DOZENS of times I have absolutely NOT felt like doing my own training and I can come up with some fantastic excuses to tell myself why I can justify skipping a session.
On those days I have either pushed through, done what was planned and felt positively heroic and invincible or I’ve cut myself some slack, practised some gentle Pilates or Yoga, some breath work, some stretching … but I’ve gone into my studio, got on my mat and done something… keeping the discipline in place, keeping my promise to myself to stay on track to get the results I set out for.
It won’t happen overnight but if you keep turning up, it will happen. 🙏❤️
When we get off our mats, we go out to play 🤸🏼🥰
A day trip to the ever sunny IOW for walking, coffee, lunch, walking, ice creams, chips, bird watching and home for tea 💕
SO much more than just Pilates ❤️
Happy hump day 💕
#noteachwednesday #onlineworks #onlinecommunity #joinusonline #friendswhoworkouttogether #isleofwight #tennysondown #lymingtonferry #yarmouth #lovewherewelive #bertie #gretl💕 #tootsontour
Box breathing.
Our All Levels Friday class. I love teaching this and it takes a surprising amount of discipline to practice familiar exercises but to hold/pause on each breath hold so it’s great for concentration and to discipline ourselves to not work automatically but to focus on precision, flow and breath.
Full class in library
#boxbreath #boxbreathing #pilatesonline #onlineworks #relaxationwork #breathwork
Birthday week. Class 5 of celebrating 5 years online!
A gentle, relaxy, stretchy one to wrap up the week - suitable when you just need to stop the clock and breathe!!
I hope to see some of you tomorrow at Beaulieu Villlage hall at 9am (everyone welcome, FOC) and otherwise, thank you for joining me (from bed with a cup of tea or your mat 🤣🤣) - I have loved teaching you and really hope you’ve enjoyed a taster of some of what we get up to.
I’m a bit behind on this week’s latest news but please check my website later for a wrap up of what we have done. All these classes are also available on @youtube
Thank you for helping me celebrate 5 years online 💕 - we are bigger, stronger and more brilliant than ever 🤛🏻👏🏻🤸🏼
#pilatesonline #onlineworks #joinmeonline #stretchrelax #breathpractise #iamasweatybetty
Day 4. Abs focus. 30 mins (ish)
(I forgot the mermaid stretch on side 2 😱😱)
Still finding my way in these lives, so I didn’t see the comments before I posted (how do you do that?!) so I hope they were positive 🤣
Great to see you bright and early and thank you for joining. 🙏🥰
Tomorrow will be much more gentle -7am here
#pilatesonline #onlineworks #absfocus #allabouttheabs #birthdayclasses #5yearsonline #iamasweatybetty
Birthday class week. Class 3. Pilates and Light weights.
I love combining these - I could honestly teach this all day. My favourite class.
I had loads of notes and as is always the way, only covered a fraction - there is always loads more where that came from.
Thank you for joining me, I really hope you enjoyed it and see you in 11 hours for a 7am Abs blast 💕
#pilatesandlightweights #smallweights #resistancework #onlineworks #ilovethisclass💕
#5yearsonline #iamasweatybetty
Resistance bands V free weights.
Just a few ideas here on how we can use a band to offer strength/resistance in place of dumbells.
For details of how to access the full class, please dm
#resistanceisqueen #womenliftweights #consistencyiskey🔑 #easiertomaintainthantostartagain #iamasweatybetty
Day 2 of our Birthday week.
Pure mat Pilates. Thank you for joining me 💕
#5yearsonline #marchchallenge #iamasweatybetty #instalive
Day 1 of our 5th birthday celebration classes.
Monday mobility! Day 1 of our 5 years online celebrations!
See you 7pm tomorrow HERE for all levels pure mat Pilates.
#5yearsold #5yearsonline #mondaymobility #joinmeonline #birthdayweek #5thbirthday
What we get up to in class!
Using the foam roller, today working very slowly to really understand and feel the move.
Swan Dive into Swimming.
To progress and turn up the heat, we add more power and pace, linking both moves and progressing to allowing double leg raise.
Always check that you are lengthening out of your hip - so often as we start to “rock” in this move, the knees soften and the feet drift apart, losing that lovely lower body connection.
So many of hate the face down (prone) work as our posterior chain can be much weaker.. but start slowly, practise to get it right and learn to enjoy the wins as you build strength, mobility and control ❤️
#swandive #pilatesontheroller #pilatesonline #pilatesswimming #whatwegetuptoinclass #modifytomixitup #havefuninyourpractise
Galloping into the weekend like my little Galloping Gretl ❤️💕
Have a good one. 😘
Sound on for true appreciation 🤣
#jackrussellterrier #jackrussellofinstagram #jackrussellworld #rescuesofinstagram #rescuesarethebest rescued by @manytearsrescue
So this was fun. A few barre inspired moves… now… beleive it or not, I am not a retired ballerina (🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣)….. no, my youth was more mucking out rather than turn out… riding rather than relevè and joddhy boots in place of ballet shoes…
I KNOW!! You’re amazed right??
So excuse the ugly feet, lack of point (plantar flexion 🙄) and pretty arms… it was a killer legs and glutes workout and we had “fun” .. right??
(AND my vest matches my mat = 🥇 )
Bad bra/vest combo but seriously impressive handsplaining 🤣🤣💕
#barrebyanyothername #handsplaining #legsnglutes #youdoitthen! #legsburner #plies #standingstrength #idomybest🤣 #iamasweatybetty
Terrific Tuesday!
8am Pure mat Pilates online (recorded and in library)
9am Functional Weights and strength online (recorded and in library)
6.45pm Teatime talks. Online and open to everyone.
FIVE years online this week and what a great way to celebrate how much we have achieved and how far we have come.
Being online is not for all but it works for so many of us and gives us the opportunity to access so much more than we may once have been able to, demonstrated perfectly last night with our talk.
We have less filter and more work here!! Keeping it real!
On one of our social meet up’s recently, everyone was saying how they cannot believe that 5 years ago they just did one class a week with breaks at Easter and Summer… now with 45 min classes (and snack bar classes) and the library, everyone does multiple classes a week and can keep up their practise with access to the library (just this week in Australia, Thailand and “after hours” for those whose routines have been disrupted)
24-29 March we are online live every day for 5 EXTRA, OPEN TO ALL CLASSES to celebrate our fifth birthday. Come and join us online here or via zoom (dm me)!
#pilates #functionalstrength #fiveyearsonline #fifthbirthday #onlineworks #liftweights #womenliftweights
@permittedtopause @thearchesphysio
What we get up to in class!
Tick tock to circles.
Clip 1, we are working on opening/closing at the hip and looking at the 2 “east/west” points of the upcoming circle.
The roller is really helpful in giving us feedback on how we can get a lift through the hip while keeping the ribs stable.
Clip 2 sees us moving into the one leg circle. As we were modifying (using the roller for feedback/challenge) and working in this class on technique, we are practicing very slowly to really feel what is happening.
For clip 2, to add challenge, you could take your static leg to tabletop or extend to ceiling.
Keep the weight out of your neck, use your arms as stabilisers and unlike me yapping away to the screen, keep your head centred.
#pilatesontheroller #foamrollerfun #pilatesonline #pilatesworks #onlineworks #mobilityonthemove #whatwegetuptoinclass #joinmeonline
What we get up to in class!
Soft ball shenanigans. I ❤️ this apparently harmless little piece of kit!! Cheap to buy, easy to store and bringing hundreds of ways to adapt, modify, add challenge and variety.
Here, we start with Spine Twist (option to bend knees/sit on a block) leading into modified Saw with a rainbow reach through the extended arm - use the ball here to progress opposition - as you circle your arm away behind you, keep reaching forward, rolling your arm forward over the ball.
Remember‼️stay seated ON not in front of your sit bones, try not to collapse at the hip and lead the rotation with your ribs, allowing your arms to follow the movement.
Using the ball can help progress the range of reach. Have fun! 💕
#whatwegetupto #whatwegetuptoinclass #saw #spinetwist #pilatesball #pilstesballexercises #spinerotation #fitbessonthemove
What we get up to in class!
A little spine ❤️ with the foam roller.
Excuse my waving hands and head position, as I’m talking to my class on the screen (and you have to use your hands to talk, right🤔).
We are working really slowly to fully engage with and embrace the transition of flexion/extension in our spine as well as using breath with control.
The roller in clips 1 and 3 is a great way to relax the hamstrings and offer some support but also to give feedback to how much we may cheat by hinging rather than articulating through the lumbar spine. The more the roller moves, the less we are getting that pelvic “tuck” or lumbar flexion.
Wide leg position challenges our adductor connection, trying to prevent medial (inward) rotation at the hips. Bringing the legs together offers more support as we “close the chain” so this is again, just a variation to offer different focus and challenge.
Arching or extending over the roller (clip 2) gives us a bigger range through our thoracic (middle) spine, making sure our head is fully supported, and by moving in and out of the position slowly, gives us time to adapt to the change in shape, to feel safe while pushing the boundaries a little.
Keep elbows narrow to reduce challenge and basically reduce surface area, while opening the elbows wide will take the exercise further into the pecs and front rotators - can be a little intense so we always move slowly and play around with it. (If you have grumpy shoulders or you know you tend to be a little rounded, keep elbows at the sides of your head for this one).
Clip 2 - This move is one I use to help us improve thoracic range which will help to reduce that annoying neck ache when lifting our head from the floor but more of that another time!
#foamroller #spinework #onlineworks #mobilityonthemove #thoracicextension #pilatesontheroller #whatwegetuptoinclass
Tuesday 11th 6.45pm
Everyone invited. No charge. Join from the comfort of your sofa.
Join me as I host the wonderful Dr. Sam who brings a huge wealth of experience, with 20 years working in NHS as a surgeon in skin cancer, talking to us about sun care, what to look out for, when to get checked out and mole mapping.
For more info on Dr. Sam, what to expect and to get zoom link, please follow Teatime Talks link in bio.
#teatimetalks #drsam #skincancersurgery #skincancersurgeon #supportingthecommunity @thearchesphysio
We are almost 5!! 🤸🏼🎉
I cannot let that go by without celebrating, not least as so many of you are still logging in multiple times a week 💻 having found me during lockdown, and we are now beaming around the world, bigger and better than ever! (For more info, you can read last week’s Latest News - link in bio 🔝)
Join me via Zoom (email/dm for zoom link) or live here on the gram …📱💻
Monday 24th 7.45am Rise and Shine
Tuesday 25th 7pm Pure Mat
Wednesday 26th 7pm Pilates fusion
Thursday 27th 7am Abs attack
Friday 28th 7am Get moving!
Saturday 29th 9am - come and join me in Beaulieu village hall where it all began! Bring your friend, neighbours, bring a mat… let’s have an hour of Pilates shenanigans followed by coffee and pastries up the road at Steffs kitchen.
Totally FREE to celebrate 5 years online 💕🤸🏼🎂🎉💕🤸🏼
#weare5 #5yearsonline #liveonline #instagramlive #beaulieu #beaulieuvillage @beaulieu_uk @fairweathersgardencentre
I celebrate (🤔) 20 years this year as a Pilates teacher and in 2 weeks, we are into our FIFTH year online, bigger, better and stronger than ever.
Just this last week we have beamed into Australia, Singapore, Tanzania, Greece, France, Spain, Germany and…. The Isle of Wight!
Of course I can’t let such a milestone go by without notice so come along and join me as I take us back to where (online) it all began - Instagram live, zoom live and an in person in Beaulieu. All totally free and all open to you all 💕 just like when I very first went online, 5 years ago!
More info to follow but for starters, head to latest news via link in bio 🔝
#5yearsonline #lockdownsuccess #onlineworks #latestnews #weeklywrapup #instagramlive #sharingthelove
You don’t need to love Pilates!
I don’t mind! There are no medals being handed out over here for “person who most loves Pilates”.
I mean obviously I do but there is a limit. I haven’t decorated the downstairs loo in “I ❤️ Pilates” wallpaper. I genuinely do believe that actually there is a HELL of a lot more to life than Pilates and coffee..
However, I do challenge you on the love for what Pilates brings into your life.
18 months ago, I dug deep into my PT skills and added weights and strength work to our weekly class list and the results have been an excellent example of cross pollination.
Without doubt, building strength has shown huge gains in our Pilates work (commented on by many who are now lifting weights 2+ times a week) while the skills of Pilates have really added value to form, technique and ability in free weights work helping with balance, coordination, focus and breath control.
Maybe you want to run further, cycle faster, kick harder, serve with more power or hit with more precision.
Maybe it’s more general and you simply want to enjoy walking or gardening without the follow up aches and niggles.
Perhaps your physio has directed you against your choice (probably to continue with one of the above) or your balance and coordination need some attention or you “just think you should”.
So no. You absolutely do not need to love Pilates. You won’t lose points for not shaking your Pom poms at the Pilates door.
However, I challenge you not to love what you find it does to help you in all the hobbies and daily functions that you do love.
And for that…. You’re welcome! 😉
#doyoulovepilates #whydoyoudoit #ispilatesyourthing #crosspollination #strengthgains
There’s a lot going on over here at Juliet’s Pilates HQ.
To find out that we are up to, what we’ve been up to and what is coming, head to my weekly Latest news. Link here in bio 🔝
#weeklywrapup #latestnews #wearenearly5 #nonesoeasytodelude #fibsarefab
“Those six will gladly you attend
If only you are willing,
Your mind they’ll ease,
Your will they’ll mend
And charge you not a shilling”.
Nursery rhyme quoted by Wayne Fields, “What the river knows” 1990.
It’s the simple things. Take this with you into your weekend and see if you can find time for exercise and movement, fresh air, good nutrition, lots of water and plenty of rest 💕
Health is wealth 🙏
#itsthelittlethings #sixdoctorsofhealth #sunshinewaterrestandair #exerciseanddiet #healthiswealth💕
Wait until Monday?
Wait til the weather improves.
Wait until you’re not so busy.
Wait until the kids are at school.
Wait until the days are longer.
Wait until you’ve finished tidying the house/garden/sorted the loft…
WHY WAIT? Why not start NOW 💥
There will always be other distractions and drains on our time.
In fact, starting NOW while we’re “too busy” is the best time as it teaches us how to schedule our time and fit in stepping away for some exercise and care for ourselves ….we can always find time to do all those other “essential” tasks so why not make a little daily exercise part of that?
Don’t have a whole hour? No matter! Who does? 10 mins skipping or 20 squats and 10 pushups…. 5 mins breath work and mindfulness… 15 mins stretch and relax…. Once you start, you will almost certainly find you can add just a couple more minutes on….
Conscience check - if you really are too busy, why not write down every day, how long you spend on mindless scrolling …. All that time laughing at cats doing funny things and sharing reels of people falling over in embarrassing situations really adds up… I challenge you to see just how long you really spend doing mindless crap… still “too busy?”
Why wait for one day? How about TODAY - busy/bored, rainy, work stress, half term and kids at home… why not make today DAY ONE 🤛🏻
Look after YOU… because no one else has time to 💕
#onedayordayone #starttoday #startnow #lookafteryou #loveyou #10minsaday #toobusyreally?
Pure Pilates (with choice of levels), Small equipment, Pilates Fusion, Strength training, Stretch and mobility, Technique workshops, …
We have a huge library with hundreds of classes to include all the above…our snack bar, guest teachers, specialist joint strength and mobility focus and I really look forward to adding our Teatime Talks this year to the ones we already have available from our guest specialists.
The library is a large part of our membership benefits from going online 5 years ago and is constantly being updated, refreshed and added to!
SO much more than Pilates ❤️ but we love Pilates the most ❤️
All available to all members 24/7 on demand.
#onlineworks #comeandjoinus
#liveonlineondemand #pilateslibrary
Mole mapping, skin cancers, how to recognise skin lesions and understanding skin care in the sun.
I’m thrilled to be bringing back my Teatime talks online.
We started this way back in lockdown and have been treated to some amazing guests and what a cracker of a guest I have to launch our 2025 series.
Join us for a stroll through Dr Sam’s “Sun Safe Skin” advice, as she talks about the sun’s effects on the skin, how to check your moles, the skin lesions to look out for and to get checked out, and how to keep your skin safe in the sun.
Dr Sam Anthony is an NHS doctor having worked as a surgeon in Dermatology for the past 20 years, specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers.
She has lectured and taught skin surgical skills at the University of Hertfordshire, and continues to train junior doctors in skin surgery during her day job, where she is also Skin Cancer Lead.
Sam is wife of the owner of @thearchesphysio in Lymington and is hoping to bring some of her knowledge and experience to the local community too.
Breaking news! The Arches has collaborated with The Mole Mapping Clinic who are bringing their expertise from Hertfordshire and Essex to Lymington soon.
Online works. We have so much to offer so make sure you are subscribed to my mailing list.
For all info on how to join us, please head to Latest News on my website. Link in bio 🔝
Who knows? It may save someone’s life 🙏
#skincancer #molemapping #skinlesions #sunsafe #teatimetalks #joinusonline #onlineworks
My daily pleasure.
No matter how busy I am, what the weather is doing, how tired I feel, I walk with my dogs.
It’s my daily pleasure… not always when I set off but always, without fail by the time I return. I’m blessed with the company of my two furry best friends who are my constant, come what may. (Little G at my feet hence not in this pic).
I’m practising being present and mindful which involves leaving behind my earphones (and usually my phone) to really embrace my surroundings.
The only thing is that without outside interference and distraction is when I’m at my most creative (apparently that’s why so many great ideas are hatched in the shower!) so if you see me amongst the gorse, trying out a new push up sequence or seeing if I can link multiple moves, just walk on by…I’m fine, it’s fine… I’m just getting bombarded with ideas that I then need to hold in my head until I get home to add to my notebook 💕
#newforest #lovewhereilive #beautifulbertie #hunkymonkey #labradors #labrador #labradorable
Abracadabra! How to get a burn using just the weight of your arms… be warned - your arms will get very heavy 🤣
Try to aim for around 15 reps of each and 3 rounds to feel the 🔥
Standing can add challenge as you need to be connected to your core to remain stable so why not start seated and progress to high kneel or standing.
10 mins. Done and dusted!
Have fun 😘😘
#armswithoutweights #shortandsweet #bodyweightexercise #sculptedarms #feeltheburn🔥
Amandaland @bbciplayer
Absolutely brilliant from start to finish 💕
#amandaland #joannalumley #lucypunch
A little Saturday loveliness @thearchesphysio today.
We had strength, mobility, barre inspired Pilates, Yoga, drinks, snacks and chats and a fun, friendly few hours on a cold and rainy Saturday.
We turn a functional gym space into our wellness space in our Lymington Physiotherapy clinic, supported by a team of expert and hugely experienced physios, surgeons, therapists, and clinicians (as well as premier league football shirts) and I love being a very small part of this superb facility.
Always a joy to catch up with @flow_and_glow_pilates and @permittedtopause and amazing to catch up with blast from the past @breathewithjojo
Watch out for details on March’s Serenity Saturday or register your interest at The Arches.
Enjoy your weekend and thank you for having me 💕
#serenitysaturday #saturdayworkshop #pilatesbarreyoga #wellnessinlymington
What do you do with a fitband?
Well, there are loads of exercises that they can add challenge and variety to but one massive game changer I love to use them for is the (oft. dreaded) press-up.
(Provided there are no shoulder problems lurking) I’d say pretty much anyone can improve their press up technique with the “trampoline” effect support of the humble fit band and it can really help with understanding how to perform the move as well as building confidence.
They are cheap, available in different resistance strengths and easy to store. (Pic from @decathlonuk , Southampton this week).
Loads more hacks and tips where that came from. You’re very welcome 🥰
#fitband #pressup #exercisehacks #modiffytogetitright @decathlonuk #iamasweatybetty
A little Sunday Shoulder Bridge sequence.
There are so many ways to play around with this exercise to swap focus from mobility and articulation to strength and control.
Take away both arms to challenge stability. Add single leg extension to increase core focus and bring in toe taps or single leg stretch to add focus, precision, control, coordination and variety. Just by changing from a bent knee to a straight leg or from toe to floor taps to leg extension, we can really change the focus and challenge.
Keep your hips stable and inline and enjoy using the power of your breath to help with control and stability as well as to help with consistency in your movement.
We ❤️ Pilates and we ❤️ being creative!
Have a super Sunday 💕
#sundaysequence #shoulderbridge #pilatesonthescreen #onlineworks #getcreative #varythosemoves #thinkoutsidethebox #iamasweatybetty
“Doing a Linda”
I’m a newcomer to @ukthetraitors and thought it was hilarious when Linda swivelled to look at Claudia and almost gave herself away before they had even started.
When I’m teaching Spine Twist, I’m always reminding of how the movement originates at the thoracic spine and the head should follow not lead the movement… so looking over one shoulder is incorrect…. From now on, I’ll keep it simple and just remind you to avoid “Doing a Linda” 🤣
#spinetwist #doingalinda #traitors #lindainthetraitors #thetraitors
Not every move suits every body. There are so many ways to adapt, modify, break it down, build it differently.
Get creative! Maybe take a lying move to standing to challenge balance or take a standing move to the mat for a change in focus.
I love trying to take familiar moves through a different plane of movement which can be a totally different experience.
Sometimes, it’s just not right for you. No matter! Think outside the box. Get creative!
As long as it’s safe, effective and has a purpose, why not mix it up? 🥰
#pilatesmashup #getyourbodymoving #takeittothemat #standtolietosit #changetheplane #onlineworks #iamasweatybetty
Rock and roll into Sunday.
1. Curl up into bridge. Lots of core focus with control - well at least some control - you may find yourself pushing further and further back up your mat!
Try to use abs strength into your curl up rather than momentum!
2. Roll up - slower with long legs to anchor you, and more focus on spinal articulation into the Reverse plank (by any other name).
There are so many ways to break these moves down, adapt, modify and build back up. Try doing just curl ups, then just hip thrusts, then connect the 2.
Get comfortable with your roll ups before linking another move - I teach the Leg pull up/supine/ reverse plank with bent knees and feet on floor to start with. Watch you keep the strength in your glutes and back extensor muscles and build a powerful “posterior chain” to avoid loading your shoulder joints.
The hardest part? Finding the right angle and height for my camera! It’s a challenge. With limited space, trying to stay in portrait without chopping off my feet. Drives me mad 🤣
Reels take A LOT more work than you might think 😵💫
Happy Sunday 💕
#legpullprone #curlup #shoulderbridge #rollupintolegpullprone #iamasweatybetty #reelsareharderthanyouthink #iamasweatybetty
Pilates with small weights.
I think this is one of my favourite classes to teach and practise.
I talk a lot about how we can see our Pilates skills enabling better technique and form in our weight training classes and likewise, from lifting weights how much more we can achieve in our Pilates.
Using even small 1kg weights can add a huge challenge and variety to our traditional Pilates moves and throwing in some high rep ranges and some sequences and those baby weights become giants!!
Technique is always our primary focus but I love variety and getting creative and even the strongest warrior can be reduced to tears using light weights and practising Pilates.
If in doubt, slow down, go lighter, do fewer but keep at it… the gains are right there, waiting for you ❤️
#pilateslightweights #weightsandpilates #iamasweatybetty #onlineworks #pilateswithsmallweights #buildstrengththepilatesway
January. Bleuchhhh…
Why do we have to do tax returns in the darkest, most miserable month?
It’s dark ALL day long, Summer is 2 years away and resolutions are mocking us from wherever we scribbled them down, full of anticipation and enthusiasm.
Now is the easiest time to make excuses and pack up and now is EXACTLY the time to dig deep, have a little more self belief and keep pushing on.
Just keep turning up.
Maybe today won’t be a PB or worthy of a strava post but just keep turning up.
Whatever you achieve will be more than if your excuses took over and you skipped the session. Whatever you do,
JUST KEEP TURNING UP ❤️
#justkeepturningup #beyourbestyou #dontgiveupnow! #littleandoften
The soft ball. It looks so harmless but it’s quite a weapon!
It is one of my favourite pieces of small equipment as there are so many ways to adapt our familiar moves as well as to bring in different challenges to mix it up.
Sometimes we focus on the squeeze, sometimes on holding as lightly as possible… I could honestly teach this all day long!
Here are a small handful of exercises from our 8am class last Thursday, with a whole new class headed your way this week.
Whether you are looking for assistance or resistance… challenge or support.. this little weapon will really mix it up and as always, there are a multitude of ways to adapt and modify 😘
#pilatesontheball #smallequipment #softballpilateswork #rollinglikeaball #singlelegstretch #doublelegstretch #doublelegtoetaps #doublelegstraightstretch @lululemon
TBT little Panda the Pilates Wonderdog, quite rightly taking centre stage!!
When we had classes in my studio here, do you remember how he would creep in and sit on your mat?
We miss him 💙
#jackrusselsdopilates #pandathepilateswonderdog #pilatesinbeaulieu #jackrussell #jackrussellsofinstagram
As we head into our FIFTH year online, I thought I would touch base to remind you of the many benefits of why
ONLINE WORKS!
Our classes are nothing like following You Tube or a video from Instagram. We are up at the screen regularly watching, correcting and working with you. I’m on the end of the phone or happy to do a quick FaceTime for any concerns or queries.
Want some more reasons?
For £45 per month
🤸🏼 Join any and EVERY one of our 8 live weekly classes
🤸🏼 Choose pure mat, weights and strength, full body stretch and mobility - we have so much choice
🤸🏼 No traffic jams/parking issues
🤸🏼 Join your class no matter what the weather is doing
🤸🏼 We accept bed hair and Pyjamas!
🤸🏼 Keep up with your classes wherever you are on holiday/staying with family/having to wait in at home
🤸🏼 We take requests to make sure we cover everything you want, for example “happy hips”, “how to work those abs without achey neck”, “how to really understand imprint”, “the how to avoid a knee replacement exercises” and LOADS more!
🤸🏼 We have an ever growing library that is split into collections such as Strength, Pure Mat Pilates (different levels), Back care, Abs focus, Guest Teachers and we also have “The Snackbar” where we have short 10/15 min classes for a quick hit - all included in the membership price
🤸🏼 Every class opens 15 mins early if you fancy a chat before hand
🤸🏼 We have regular challenges and masses of variety to keep you motivated and inspired
🤸🏼 Cheeky extra classes added
🤸🏼 I have 20 years’ experience as a Level 4 teacher and 6 years as a teacher trainer and Clare is an exceptional teacher with 6 years’ teaching experience so you are in very experienced hands
🤸🏼 I am committed to my own personal development and attend training courses every year
Want to know more? DM for details on how to have a trial week of classes and if you already attend and I’ve forgotten to mention something, pls comment below!
We are growing year on year - that speaks for itself!!
See you online soon! Keep it simple, easily accessible and affordable and that makes it sustainable 💕
Photos @becky_takes_photos
@flow_and_glow_pilates #onlineworks
Open leg Rocker is a lot harder in ski boots 🤣
Chose to have a complete soash medya break for a week but got a quick vid just to keep one toe in the game 😘
Just about managed a pause between reps!!
#openlegrocker #pilatesinthesnow #pilatesandskiing #zellamseekaprun #lastchristmasremix #altegomusic #tootsontour
I hope everyone has had a really lovely Christmas. This is that weird week when we are not sure what day it is, have cheese and crackers for breakfast, eat Yule log for lunch and think it’s perfectly ok to add Baileys to our morning coffee… (just me then ? 🤣)…
Thought I’d quickly touch base with a head’s up for the New Year, as I have lots up my sleeve!
2025 “live classes” timetable will look like this ⬇️
08.45 ALL LEVELS technique class - idenitifying how to avoid a knee replacement or getting those grumpy hips working or getting more movement in your spine…... I have a theme for each class and have taken requests (thank you!!)
We are going to get that thoracic spine moving better so that you CAN curl up without your neck aching; we are going to make those glutes and quads SO STRONG to help avoid knee replacements; we are going to do hip specific strength and mobility for general functional movement..
Tuesdays 8am PURE mat. Traditional mat work that will lenghten, strengthen and challenge - mixed ability
Tuesdays 9am Functional Strength. ALL LEVELS. Always have all your weights and bands as we go into our third year of lifting weights and building strength (always SUCH a popular class)
Wed 8am - Clare will tell you more but this is her class and it’s always excellent!
Thurs 8am Pilates funk. Maybe sequences or the wall or light weights. Be prepared for any of the above. Mixed ability.
Thurs 9am Pure mat, all levels. Covering all the tradional moves with adaptations and ways to adjust to help you grow strong, feel better balanced and have improved range of movement.
Fri 8am - could be HIIT, could be Circuits (have all weights and small equipment handy) - it’s ALWAYS really tough and don’t worry, our weights work will always feature - another very popular class.
Fri 9am Full body mobility and stretch using bands, rollers or just our mat. A wrap up after the week to make sure we stretch and mobilise and include some breath work.
Lots of the classes will be recorded and added to our ever growing library.
Full, new timetable starts 6/1/25
Want to join us?We are a great community! Link 🔗in bio 💕
#liftweightstofeelgreat #pilatesfusion
And a gentle, full body stretchhhhhh to wrap it up…: with the camera quite brilliantly in the wrong place again 👊🏻👊🏻
Another 45 min class although you wouldn’t think so from this!
2 classes to go before the big HoHo 🎄🎅🏻
Stretch, mobility and breath work…. Please do 5 mins EVERY day to keep you ticking over and bendy 💕
#fridaystretch #fridaywinddown #fullbodystretch #mobilityandbreath #breathwork
The 12 Moves of Christmas.
It was tough but we sort of loved it! 45 min non stop pure mat Pilates ❤️❤️
Particular skill on my part to put the camera in the wrong place but there it is!
Well done everyone. That was 💥🔥
#pilatesonline #christmasexercise #lastfriday #pilatesonthemat
Weekly wrap up. Week 50.
As we approach the 20th anniversary of the Boxing Day Tsunami, I chose to share some of my story.
Also what’s coming up next week, what’s new in the library and a few other bits and bobs.
Link in bio ⬆️
#tsunami #boxingdaytsunami2004 #boxingdaytsunami #tsunamisurvivors #srilanka #20thanniversary
Week 6! The last week in our 6 week Strength challenge.
A selection of what we have to get through today.
➡️ Stand up to kneel
➡️ Sumo squat (deadlift)
➡️ Plank to pike (added bonus of hamstring stretch after deadlifting)
➡️ Row single single double double
➡️ narrow Triceps push up to plank
➡️ Shoulder press with pivot
➡️ One leg weighted bridge with single leg extension
➡️ Hi Lo plank
Repeat TWICE more within 7 days to put this challenge to bed in time for the big Ho Ho!
Variations and modifications always offered throughout with loads of teaching and guidance. Want to feel STRONG 💪🏻? Come and join us on the mat online. All this goes up in your library along with yesterday’s All levels mat Pilates class, Tuesday functional strength, The 12 moves of Christmas…. There is so much for you to choose from.
See you on the mat 💕
#pilatesonline #weightsonline #pilatesmeetsstrengthtraining #womenliftweights #powerfulwomen #liftweightstoloseweight #strongbodystrongmind
The 12 Moves of Christmas ….
Pure mat Pilates with a festive twist. EVERY time I teach this class I worry that I haven’t included enough content and we are going to finish too early and EVERY time I teach this class, I then worry that we are not going to get through it all!
It never gets any easier, does it? That put a big dollop of c.v. into the mix this morning 🤣🥵
Who joined me this morning? Did you “love” it? Don’t worry - all recorded and going in the library tonight!!
The magic of Pilates… with a side helping of festive cheer 🤣💥👊🏻
Thank you @thearchesphysio for the photos! 😘
#the12movesofChristmas #pilatesmeetschristmas #pilatesgetsacardiohit #12pilatesmoves #12pilatesmovesofchristmas
Festive Health Snacks.
As we head into the festivities, we are likely to eat and drink a lot more. Rich foods, alcohol and less activity can lead to a lot of inflammation and pain.
Inflammation will cause more pain if we don’t mobilise and those joints get stiff and then hurt so think of some simple, really accessible ways to take your spine through movement and bring in some hip and shoulder moves too.
I KNOW IT’S BORING but please keep drinking water… dehydrated bodies are more likely to be achey and inflamed and we feel lethargic as well as our digestive systems being sluggish.
Have a large jug of water in the kitchen and another on the dining table and chuck in some lemon, lime, apple and cucumber chunks. Every time you top up your wine glass or go to put on the kettle, drink a large glass of room temp. water. You will feel fresher, be less likely to get headaches and be more alert. You may need to get up in the night for the loo which is very boring but far preferable to that thumping head and sluggish mood in the morning.
Keep it simple and try to make it a habit.
Drink water, mobilise and move and feel FABULOUS throughout the festivities 💕
(Can’t help you with family headaches - get out and walk in the fresh air every day to just…. Breathe! 🙏💕)
LOVE this track but this version sounds more creepy than christmasy!
#christmashacks #festivehealthsnacks #staymobile #drinkwater #keephydrated #lookafteryou!
There are you! Done! 30 mins in the bank.
Sunday Stocking filler. Now we can get on with our day, mobilised, stretched and all in the time it takes to make some coffee and butter some toast 😉
Great turnout! Thank you for your company 💕
Have a happy Sunday 😘
#sundayonline #stockingfillers #sundaymoveandmobilise
Weekly wrap up. Week 49. The one where @jojeharvey mentioned me in Coronation Street… and other ramblings! (Nothing to do with Pilates or exercise. What a refreshing change)
Link in bio ⬆️
Have a great weekend 💕
#coronationstreet #juliettheshowjumper #weeklywrapup #whatscomingup #week49
Our third annual Christmas lunch….
We started meeting for Pilates online in lockdown, lots of us having never met in person and here we are, 4.5 years later, a bigger and ever growing community of true friends.
We meet multiple times a week, share stories and life’s adventures and true friendships have grown from meeting virtually on our mats.
A blended community of Pilates friends from @thearchesphysio and @limewoodhotel as well as our online collection.
Thank you all for travelling from London, Oxford, Devon, Surrey…. i hope you enjoyed today as much as I did. Sorry not to have everyone in the reel but you know who you are 🥰💕
A huge thank you @fificarrington for our brilliant mini mat tree decorations and little bags of spice 🙏💕
Thank you for making it such a happy celebration and DAMN! Check YOU OUT! Strong 💪🏻, fit, flexible and FAB U LOUSSSSS… 💕💯
lifting your weights, rolling up, rolling over, planking, lunging and Teasering your way into an even healthier 2025!
I absolutely treasure our community more than I can say. Coming up for 5 years online, 14 years @limewoodhotel , almost a year @thearchesphysio and there’s A LOT more where that came from 🙏❤️
See you on the mat 8am tomorrow
Thank you Steffs Kitchen @fairweathersgardencentre for a delicious lunch and 5⭐️ care.
#beaulieu #steffs #christmaslunch #cameforpilatesstayedforfriendship #onlineworks #pilatesonline
Tuesday Functional Strength challenge. Week 5.
A mash up today of medium, light and bodyweight.
➡️ Standing 100 with optional leg raise - great for balance and coordination (and raising the heart rate)
➡️ Dead lift. Hitting those hamstrings
➡️ Staggered loaded squats. Quads focus
➡️ Plie with shoulder press. Inner thigh focus with hip turnout adding shoulder work
➡️ chest lift with single arm extension. Great focus on middle/ upper back strength - keep that lumbar spine relaxed (reaching to get something under the sofa!)
➡️ chest lift with rotation at shoulder and tricep squeeze - try to get your arms straighter than mine are!
➡️ seated (can kneel) single arm scapular retraction into chest opener - shoulders, chest, back plus challenge of maintaining posture in seated/kneeling pose (dressing the tree while sitting comfortably!)
➡️ roll up including pullover and chest press
➡️ reverse Saw - hit that middle back and obliques - stay light with the weights or work empty handed (reaching to grab something off the back seat in the car)
➡️ shoulder bridge with scissor arms.
#tuesdayworkout #functionalfitness #functionalstrength #womenliftweights #liftweighttoloseweight #womenliftweights
December challenge!
Pinch, punch, it’s time to squat. Join us for a squattingly good run up to Chrimbo, keeping your legs strong and your digestive system happy 💪🏻😊
Don’t forget #decembersquatchallenge and tag me @julietspilates
Lots of thigh slapping - think I’m getting into panto mood 🤣
Thank you @flow_and_glow_pilates for our first Sunday Stocking filler (going up in library soon) which took us through some Sun Salutations and gave us some squats to start with.
Start 1st with 11, 2nd with 12 and so on!
Good luck 🤞
#squatforstrength #squatforguthealth #decemberchallenge #squatforthatbooty #tightenthattush #squattoaiddigestion
Weekly wrap up. Week 48.
Fairy light dramas, nearly drowning, what’s happening next week, upcoming classes and Sunday Stocking Filllers.
Link in bio ⬆️
Have a great weekend 💕
#weeklywrap #weeklywrapup #week48 #whatscomingup #fairylightsfiasco #christmasdramas
Friday strength challenge. Week 4.
Lots of back, shoulders amd obliques today. This is a selection of what we’ve got up to.
Slightly different format with lots of options to adapt. 5 exercises, 60 secs on, 30 secs rest, repeat twice then we have a second routine - 5 exercises, repeat twice. Going for overload today 💥🔥
Half get up, seated woodchopper, lower body weighted spine twist, roll up to (upper body) spine twist, v sit halo, v sit chest press, halo, scapular squeeze, diagonal front raise, split raise, shoulder press to tricep press, scissors with adaptation.
As your weights get heavier, your waist is shrinking. Recording going up in library today.
You’re welcome ❤️
#friyay #fridaystrength #womenliftingwomen #womenliftweights #strengthisessential #weightsforweightloss #weightsforweightmanagement #liftweightsloseweight #iamasweatybetty #iamasweattybetty
Fancy a stocking filler 😉
Just LOVE my new tees 🥰🎅🏻🎄
Thank you for all your orders!! I’m not making any profit, just sharing the ❤️ (oh, and you have my website in discreet lettering on your back 🤣)
@brandingbybecky @sign_it_uk #xmastshirt #stockingfillers
Tuesday Functional strength Week 4.
A selection of today’s class using a kitchen chair for stability, support and to offer variation on some of the familiar moves. Exercise is available to every level and ability and practising some exercises seated gives us an idea of how to adapt if necessary and how to make some of the free weights work more accessible to those who are less mobile while still providing a good challenge to those with more experience.
➡️ Stand up, sit down (weight optional)
➡️ Spine twist with arm reach - light weights. Band around upper legs to offer stability and resistance
➡️ Marching with mini loop
➡️ Single leg raise. Weight optional
➡️ Narrow seated shoulder press
➡️ Isolated bicep curl
➡️ Tricep extension
➡️ 4 point step out with mini loop
➡️ Spine Twist with shoulder press
Different format today. A bigger range of exercises with one round of each. This is just a small selection.
Don’t forget to repeat twice more before next week.
#strengthchallenge #week4 #seatedexercise #sittingweightswork #pilatesforstrength #womenliftweights #onlineworks
Today we are working on some balance and coordination.
Coordination, sequencing and complex moves are all really effective ways to improve balance - it isn’t just about standing on one leg.
The actual movements can be really simple but by adding sequences and getting arms and legs moving differently from each other makes it more complex so anyone can do this - keep it simple and build on it.
Getting the brain and the body communicating while having to concentrate on unfamiliar movement patterns are a fantastic way to help with some neurological disorders as well as helping us feel more balanced - we are giving our brain a workout!
We can practise sequencing while lying on the floor - it still helps with balance as we are challenging our neural pathways - start with simple, individual moves and then progress to linking them and adding more to build your sequence.
When you drive the car, you change gear without giving it a thought as the movement pattern is so ingrained… how many activities every day are a well practised habit?
Throw in some unfamiliar moves - they don’t have to be physically challenging but link some new and different movements to get your brain and your body chatting together a bit more!
It’s a subtle nod to practising mindfulness - you have no option but to fully concentrate on what you are doing so you are obliged to fully present while giving the moment purpose. A break from any monkey chatter that is nagging you… win, win!
Have a great Monday 💕
#pilatesforneurologicalconditions #pilatesforneurologicaldisorders #sequences #coordinationhelpsbalance #mindfulness #movementandnindfulness #balanceandcoordination #complexmovement
Friday Strength Challenge Week 3.
A selection today - Triceps/Biceps/Glutes/Abs
➡️ Alternate hammer curls
➡️ Tricep extension with pulse x3
➡️ Staggered Bicep curls
➡️ Froggy legs bridge (really hits the glutes!) with pullover
➡️ 4 point kneel weighted reverse kick (get that knee high!)
➡️ Side lying weighted leg lift
➡️ Weighted alternate one leg hip thrusts
➡️ holding bridge, knees in/out (weight optional)
➡️ Reverse curl to double leg heel tap
Sticking to same format. 60 secs on, 30 secs recovery. Two optional extra exercises in recovery 😘
During the class I talk you through all the different ways to adapt and modify and what weight to be aiming for.
Strange facial expressions optional.
Weekly wrap up week 47 out now - link in bio ⬆️
Happy Fri yay 🥰💕
#glutes #tricepbicep #strengthchallenge #weeklywrapup #itsfriyay #weightswork
Functional strength week 3 of our 6 week challenge.
Standing Abs and balancing out with back strength.
➡️ weighted side bend (option to hold weight at chest or down by side)
➡️ Standing Crunch
➡️ Standing Bicycle
➡️ Brace and press
➡️ Chest lift and arm press (light weights optional)
➡️ 4 point kneeling point and reach (small weight optional)
➡️ Superman
➡️ walk out to Plank
There are so many ways to adapt and modify which I discuss in every class.
2 rounds. 60 secs on, 30 secs recovery. 3 min recovery between rounds. Optional additional exercise during long recovery. Repeat twice more before next Tuesday.
See you online at 9 👊🏻
Stinking cold and messy workout hair thrown in free.
#functionalfitness #functionalstrength #standingabs #everyonecanbuildstrength #noneckpainabs #backstrength #strengthchallenge
Anyone else off to see the much acclaimed Gladiator 2? I’m looking forward to watching it tomorrow afternoon!
There has been (understandably) a lot of hype about Paul Mescal’s amazing physique so I was very interested to listen to him being interviewed this week on how he achieved the results.
Did he live on raw eggs and half a cow every day? Did he move full time into the gym and beast himself for hours and hours?
No!
He took advice to up his protein, and his training?? Wait for it….
45 mins, 6 times a week. …. FORTY FIVE MINUTES?!?
45 mins… so assuming you don’t want to look Box office ready or have need for gladiatorial armour and are merely looking to build strength, have healthy bones and look 🔥 in your Xmas party dress, just imagine what THIRTY mins, 3 times a week will do..
THIRTY MINUTES! And the best bit?? I’ve already got it lined up for you! One class, rinse and repeat twice more that week. Boom 💥
30 mins though …💃🎄
I’ll leave that with you! Have a great Saturday ❤️
P.s. also very excited for Paddington in Peru 🤣 - it’s being called Gladdinton (as in barbenheimer last year!)
#gladiator #gladiator2 #paulmescal #workoutmotivation #3xaweek #keepitsimple #liftweightsfeelamazing #getrippedforchrimbo
Friday 8am Strength challenge. Week 2.
➡️ windmill
➡️ rear kick to curtsey
➡️ weighted clam with hip lift
➡️ seated - don’t know what to call it!! Killer quads - cramp inducing
➡️ kneeling Arnold’s
➡️ tricep press in bridge
➡️ dead bug progression - work across diagonal while pressing against static leg
➡️ low plank with double knee tap
60 secs on, 30 secs recovery, 2 rounds.
Recovery time options - either take extra 60 secs recovery or weighted roll ups (set 1) and 3/4 push ups (set 2)
See you in 30 mins! Class will be recorded and drop in library by teatime - repeat twice more before next Friday.
This class is followed at 9am by a full body stretch and release using foam roller - I will also record and get uploaded later today 😊
P.s. Weekly wrap up week 46 out now. Knowledge versus wisdom. ⬆️ Link in bio
Have a great Friday 💕
#strengthworkfriday #weightswork! #womenliftingweights #powergirl #week2challenge #joinmeonline #iamasweatybetty
Nothing like nature for a reset and this is the forest at her most magnificent 🍁🍂🍁
I’ve been a bit work heavy lately and just hanging out with the dogs, walking in the autumn leaves is the best, totally free therapy.
Mind you, I find it really hard to switch off and walking is when I’m at my most creative. I’ve come up with new moves, class plans and sequences that I just have to hold in my head until I get home.
If you see a blond woman out walking a Labrador and JR, doing weird lunges, plies, curtsey squats…: let her be… just me trying out ideas as I’m walking 🤣💕
#autumn #autumninthenewforest #labradorsofthenewforest #labradoretriever #jackrussell #justapilatesteacherblowingoffsteam #gettingcreative #newforest #skybluepink
Tuesday 9am Functional strength, week 2. Mobility, strength, balance and coordination. Using these exercises to help us in everyday activities.
A selection of what we will be working on today.
I didn’t mean to add music and don’t know how to remove it without starting all over again 🙄😱
➡️ Roll down to floor to walk out to (optional) push up - as a big compound move to get going
➡️ Farmers March. High knee march with weights - balance, coordination, core focus - aim to get knee above hip
➡️ Golf swing - repeat both sides!
➡️ Weighted hip thrust - great alternative to squats
➡️ Chest press - push up alternative
➡️ Toe taps (modified scissors) - weight optional - all about core focus
➡️ Weighted Roll up. Spinal mobility with strength
#functionalstrength #womenandweights #weightswork #onlineworks #makeweightswork #strongwomen
Just a simple broom handle!!
A little fun with a pole this morning in our 08.45am
You can use a towel and hold it tightly between both hands (not a band - too stretchy) if you dont have a handy broom handle but it’s a great way to increase challenge as well as getting feedback and it offers a good point of reference.
You can do the kneeling work standing up if you prefer.
This is just a small selection -
Shoulder mobility, chest opener, spinal rotation and mobility and some rolling 🥰
#pilatesandthepole #shouldermobility #chestopener #spinetwist #rollup #rolling #openlegrocker #modifiedsaw #havingfunonthemat #iamasweatybetty
Thank you for having me @thearchesphysio for a lovely morning of Serenity today.
Today we focused on balance and breath. Following me was a functional health workshop and then a Yoga and Soundbath class.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the next one!
#yogasoundhealing #functionalhealth #balanceandbreath #pilatesbalance #serenity #healthinlymington
A selection from this morning’s Friday Week 1 Strength challenge.
Combining big compound moves with balance, coordination and control alongside some isolation focus.
➡️ Dumbell swing (hold & pause)
➡️ Reverse lunge with shoulder press
➡️ kneeling Bicep curl
➡️ Renegade Row (knee to floor option) (get Renegade master ear worm EVERY time I say this exercise 🤣)
➡️ Dead Bugs
➡️ V sit rotation row
Also Kneeling chin pull ups and “extra bonus option” Mountain climbers and Toe taps.
60 secs on. 30 secs rest. 2 repeats.
Class now in library - make sure you repeat twice before next Friday 💕
Try to count your reps and measure your progress each time you repeat - aim to match if not beat your reps.
Watch how building strength from these classes helps you run faster, cycle harder, enjoy gardening or walking the dog with more energy, and observe how weights work will help with your Pilates and how Pilates helps with strength training. 👊🏻
You are welcome 🫡💕
We followed this with the 9am 45 min full body stretch class (also in library as 2 options - either full 45 mins in “All levels” collection or split into 2 x 20 mins upper and lower body in “Strength” collection).
That’s it. All recording and editing finished. Putting my feet up now. Happy Friday 🥰
#westilllovepilates #womena strength #womenliftweights #strongwomen #beatageing #bethebestuoucanbe #iamasweatybetty
Weekly wrap up. Week 45.
Consistency is KEY to covering your goals. Basically…. Just keep turning up!
Plus poorly Bertie, what’s new in the library, why bring in our online community keeps us accountable and more!
Link in bio ⬆️
#weeklywrapupweek45 #weeklyblog #consistency #justturnup #consistencyiskey #iamasweatybetty
Tuesday Functional strength.
This class is about using weights to help build strength and functionality for everyday tasks. The exercises are typically more basic so that all levels can join including those newer to working with free weights. That said, you can squeeze in more reps and lift heavier weights to increase the challenge. For what it’s worth, my arms were shaking for about half an hour afterwards 🤣 but you can go lighter and work more slowly, performing fewer reps
But what are we doing? 🤔 ⬇️
➡️ Picking up/putting down heavy shopping bags (just in time for Chrimbo!)
➡️ weighted heel raises - for looking over the neighbours’ fence to see what they’re up to
➡️ Weighted squats so you can get up and down from a low chair, holding something should you wish
➡️ high single leg stair climb…balance, coordination… (please note, if you DO want to climb the stairs, you’ll need to use both legs or you won’t get anywhere)
➡️ Putting heavy bags in the overhead locker… or putting heavy rubbish into a high skip at the tip!
➡️ being able to dry your hair at the back (with a very heavy hairdryer)
➡️ picking up and putting down the handles of your very heavy wheelbarrow
➡️ Come and av a go if yer think yer ‘ard enuf
1 min on, 20 secs off. 2-3 rounds. We also threw in a one min plank challenge and one min dead bugs 😉😉
Recording in library
💕
#iamasweatybetty
I’ve been banging on A LOT lately about strength training and I’m absolutely passionate about training women with weights.
However, over here online we still do A LOT of Pilates too!!
Today’s 8am Technique Tuesday saw us working through lots of inversion work plus quite a lot of other bits n bobs.
We worked through Bicycle, Scissors, Control Balance, High Bridge…. Threw in some Teasers and Hip Circles, Side Kick Kneeling, Leg Pull Supine, Thigh Stretch, Seal, Open leg Rocker… have I forgotten anything 🤔🤔
I love showing how the weights work cross pollinates - all that triceps work for example helps lead to strong stabilisers for the rollover work while weighted Hip Thrusts and Squats really helps in Teaser and Hip circles.
(Class going up in library later today 🥰)
#pilatesonline #techniqueclass #inversion #teaser #teachingpilatesonline
Pinch punch. New month, another challenge.
STRENGTH! Come and join us - 6 weeks of challenges, clinics, the 34 moves, stretch and mobility…
Pilates and strength training- best combo!!
Tues and Fri. New class each week for 6 weeks. Straight into library. Repeat the class 3 x per week and just wait for those strength gains!
I never take off my Pilates hat and will be keeping technique, form and best practise absolutely at the fore. You see in very good hands 🙌
Why the echo tho? 🤔
Have a great weekend 💕
#strenght #womenandweights #getstrongstaywell #pickupthoseweights
Weekly Wrap up. Week 44. 2024.
Why we all need to gallop like Gretl, November strength challenges and more.
Link in bio 💕
#gottolovearescue #rescuedog #manytears #gretlvontrapp #soundofmusic #jackrussell #jackrussellterrier #daschund #galloplikegretl #loveofdogs #noelfitzpatrick
Weekly wrap up. Week 43. 2024.
4.5 years online and growing, 48 classes for £45 and a new strength challenge. 💪🏻🏋️
Two weekly strength classes, The Technique clinic, The Back Clinic and The 34 Moves.
THERE IS STILL TIME. Wave goodbye to 2024 feeling the best possible version of YOU!
Starting w/c 4/11 we are going to lift weights 3x a week for 6 weeks. Prepare to feel stronger and fitter than ever before. You’ll be wearing sleeveless tops no matter how cold it gets, just to show off your arms!
We are looking at all our Mat Pilates exercises and perfecting those trickier or harder to understand ones to be able to perform The 34 Moves. 🧘🏼
The back care clinic. Looking at common problems to help get our backs as strong and flexible as possible. 🙏
We have a lot to look forward to and if you’re not already with us, now is your chance to join us and get TWO EXTRA WEEKS TOTALLY FREE 💸💰🆓
Link in bio to find out more.
Have a great weekend x
Weekly wrap up. Week 42. Very short this week! Been off games - will catch up next week 😘
Link in bio 💕
#weeklywrapup #notmuchtosay! #stinkingcold
Social meet ups are a large and important part of our online community and we always get up to all sorts.
Yesterday was a lovely walk with group 1 pictured and then meeting group 2 @theroyaloakatfritham for lunch.
Lots of chat, a bit of rain, a thorough gait analysis of beautiful Bertie by his previous vet, lots of dogs, the beautiful forest in it’s autumnal magnificence, some successful stream leaping, some unsuccessful stream leaping (🤣🤣) and a bit of tree hugging.
True nourishment ❤️
Thank you for the photos Rosie and Clare 🙏
#fritham #walkingthedogs #huggingtrees #lovewhereyoulive #newforest
@greggic @flow_and_glow_pilates @jojo_kaye_ @rosieakester
I don’t get to see this one in person as often as I’d like but it’s always a joy when I do.
Bringing @flow_and_glow_pilates on board earlier this year to teach with me has been the 💯 success I knew it would be and I am so lucky to have her working with me. I know you all love her (killer) classes!!
There was no pre meet wardrobe chat, we just happened to be a little matchy matchy…add to that a #daschund and a #jackshund 💯💯💕❤️ (one peeping through Clare’s legs, the other out of shot…. I do realise that’s a spaniel!)
#pilatesteachersunite #pilatesfriendscommunity #thisonesacracker
Weekly wrap up. Week 41. 2024.
Why do we need to lift weight and how does it help us lose weight?
The 5 day challenge - the results are in and other bits and bobs. Link in bio ⬆️
Have a great weekend 🍁🍂
#womenandweights #womenmustliftweight #5daychallenge #weeklywrapup #strengthtrainingforwomen #strengthtrainingforhealth #strengthtrainingforweightloss #joinmeonline #7amclub
I am thrilled at the take up on our 5 day challenge. I’ve bought new leggings and everything!
Starts tomorrow. Mon - Fri. 7am each day. 30 min classes, all recorded for you to keep.
For some motivation, please head to link in bio where I try this week to bust some excuses apart.
I’m already planning The 12 days of Chr… Ch…. No, can’t say it yet!
Don’t want to miss the fun? Make sure you follow me here and also subscribe to my mailing list. Just hop on over to julietspilates.com and subscribe (website going through a bit of a facelift so bear with!)
Buy some lemons today - start your early morning with a large glass of warm water and lemon to hydrate and give your gut a gentle wake up. I always have at least one pint of warm water (3/4 from tap, topped up from kettle) and a large chunk of lemon every single morning, no matter what.
Keep sipping throughout the day to stay hydrated, stave off the desire to snack and see how quickly you feel more alert, less bloated, your skin and hair will thank you…
Tag this on to your 5 day challenge and let’s wrap this year up feeling…. FAB U LOUSSSSS.
Age is but a number. Who cares what your birth certificate says? Get over it and embrace YOU becoming fitter, stronger, sexier, happier… let’s DO this!
Christmas, we’re coming to get you and we are fully armed, locked and loaded 💪🏻❤️
Set your alarms, warriors 💪🏻💯
#5daychallenge #the7amclub #wakeupgetmoving #onlineclasses #fitonline #setyouralarmwarriors
Weekly wrap up. Week 40, 2024.
Excuses, excuses and a few reminders on why getting up and getting on with it is so good for us. Link in bio.
I look forward to seeing you in our 5 day challenge starting Monday, 7am. Drop a 👍 in comments below if you are joining …. A little step towards accountability!!
Have a great weekend 💕
#5daychallenge #octoberchallenge #7amworkout #5days5classes #seeyouonthemat
What I believe with every fibre of my being 🙏❤️
OCTOBER CHALLENGE.
EVERYONE WELCOME.
🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓🆓
Starting MONDAY OCTOBER 7th.
Mon to Fri
7am start. 30 min classes.
Online.
Want to try Pilates? Want to see how varied our classes are using (this week) just weights and a soft ball? Fancy a challenge? Tight on time but want to work out? Need to get finished in time for work/school run/both?
This is for you!
Free to join 👍
Do you what you can and allow me to offer alternatives/easier options etc to take best possible care of you and help you get results 💪🏻👊🏻🧘🏼
Dm/email for details and zoom code.
So excited, I’m buying new leggings and everything 🤣
ALL CLASSES OPEN 15 MINS BEFORE TO CHECK SET UP ETC.
See you soon 😜
#octoberchallenge #5daychallenge #differentclasseveryday #pilateschallenge #joinmeonline
Weekly wrap up. Week 39.
Things are not always as they seem and the OCTOBER 5 DAY CHALLENGE!
Come and join us - this is free to join for everyone. All details in link in bio!
Tell your friends and commit to 5 classes in 5 days PLUS recordings to keep!
Have a great weekend all - can’t wait to see some of you tomorrow at our wellness morning @thearchesphysio (please see their page/my stories for details).
#octoberchallenge #5daychallenge #getfitstaystrong #thingsarenotslwaysastheyseemstobe
Weekly wrap up. Week 38. 2024.
Are you “too busy” for exercise or do you prioritise new clothes and holidays over a gym membership or personal trainer? And other ramblings.
Link in bio 💕
#prioritiseyourself #priorities #whatsmoreimportant #prioritiseyourhealth #weeklywrapup
Friday exercise snacks.
Go light on the weights and high on the reps. Tins of soup are great to get you started! (Or beans, chopped tomatoes… possibilities are endless….)
☑️ shoulder circles. Stay stable through the spine by keeping those abs connected. Watch not to lock out the elbows. Aim for 15 in each direction
☑️ chest press with shoulder rotation. Keep the wrists long. Aim for 15
Dirty 30 - be brave - double up on the reps?
☑️ Tricep press and pulse. Keep elbows narrow and stay long in wrists.
☑️ biceps hammer curls. Again, arms marrow to ribs.
Repeat for even more fun…🤔
Meanwhile I’ll see if I can be even further away and harder to see in next recording 🙄
Have fun 💕
#exercisesnacks #snackbarworkout #armsworkout #tricepsbiceps #dirty30 #usetinsasweights
Weekly wrap up. Week 37.
September is the new January. Thinking of a September reset? It’s the start of the “school” year with just under 16 weeks left of 2024. Why not set some goals to make sure you see the year out as a fitter, stronger, healthier, happier version of you than when you welcomed the year in?
SO much can be achieved in this last quarter and if we start today and repeat consistently, it will be part of our routine and fully established before we even think about Chr… Chri…. Chrrrrr…. Well, it will be part of our lifestyle and no longer an effort to fit in…. So much can be achieved! We even have a warm weather spell headed this way to further motivate us! 👊🏻👊🏻
Link in bio 💕
#septemberisthenewjanuary #septemberjanuary #setsomegoals #16weekeft
Big fail in my ramblings… INCREASED RISK of falls!!! NOT reduced!! Duh 🙄….
Toots Top Tips!
Balance…. Or losing it!! I am passionate about this topic and include lots of relevant work in my classes.
Do you know someone who struggles with their balance? Some simple daily practise along with learning to target those deep postural muscles (cue Pilates) can make a HUGE difference. As with everything however, consistency is key.
Please don’t accept loss of balance as just a fact of ageing.
Please share your balance hacks or how you got on with my suggestions ⬇️
Weird shin and echo issues today 🤣but it’s all a work in progress 💕
#balance #pilatesforbalance #improveyourbalance #balancehacks #ageisjustanumber #tightropewalk
One day or DAY ONE?
September - the start of the school year! We know September is the new January. What can you do from today for the last 16 weeks of 2024 to be even better, even more fabulous?!
#septemberthenewjanuary #septemberresolutions #16weeks #whoskneeisintheway?
Toots’ Top Tip and The September Challenge
Squats!
One of the most functional movements we do every day. Give it purpose! Every time you sit down and stand back up, try not to use your hands, think technique and use this multiple times a day activity to build strength and SAVE THOSE KNEES!
👀Dont look down - look forward.
Every day of September commit to doing 3 or 10 or 100. Mix them up or add 1 more every day but whatever you do… keeeeeeeep squatting!!
Lack of mobility in ankles/knees/hips can restrict movement into squatting which can nearly always be adressed with appropriate attention but adaptation may need to be considered for any joint issues.
☑️ Bar stool sit
☑️ Dirty toilet, broken door
☑️Weighted squat using Jack Russel in absence of weights
☑️ Squat to raise HR
☑️Squat to balance
☑️ Upside down Squat
☑️ Upside down Squat with one leg
Please note no Jack Russells were injured or even mildly inconvenienced during filming.
Also please note no picnics or BBQ leftovers were successfully scavenged. Labradors remain safe and no. 1 priority!
Please like, comment and share!
#labradorpicnicthief #bertiethelabrador #gorgeousgretl #gretlthejackrussell#labradorsonholiday #jackrussells #campinginwales #vwcampervan #vwcamper #pembrokeshire #staystrongonholiday #squatchallenge #rescuesarethebest #bestbreedisrescue #jrrescue #tootsontour
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What does being healthy mean to you? I don't suppose any of us set out to be deliberately unhealthy. We may continue a behaviour that we know is not good for us, but we don't actively choose poor health. We may grumble that we ought to do more exercise of make some changes to our diet, but I am asking you to stop for a moment and just think - what does "being healthy" or "living a healthy life" mean to you? I know for most of us, our default opinion will be towards diet, exercise, relaxation and sleep and yet is it not so much more vast than that? What about the term "unhealthy relationships" or working "in a toxic environment" to name just two examples of things that affect our health but have nothing to do with what we eat or how much we move. I had an insanely "healthy" weekend this one just gone. I did a couple of really good training sessions, I had an afternoon nap, walked in the forest in the late afternoon sun with the dogs and ate so well that if you cut me I would probably bleed raw vegetables. When I sat down to watch some t.v. I flicked over to a true crime documentary on Netflix. Now, I am the QUEEN of crime dramas, be it reading them, watching them... I would probably be quite an asset to the SOCOS, truth be told with my eagerness to establish who last saw the victim alive and protecting the crime scene, (although the waste of single use and throw rubber gloves is of some concern - can we find something more environmentally friendly?). When I was running one of my retreats in Turkey, one of our guest's husbands was a detective actively working a murder case that week and I was only too willing to offer my extensive knowledge on procedures (not taken up, bizarrely!). Yet here I was watching this hideous documentary and finding my peaceful, happy mode deteriorate towards something quite dark and I just stopped it to wonder what on earth I was doing. I had to flip it around and instead go full immersion into a podcast on The Archers, itself quite dramatic but in a much less gruesome way (although Peggy's will is a worry but so too is her entire family's attitude - poor woman has not yet gone cold in the ground and they are doing their sums). I talk to people a lot about health and wellness. Of course I do. It's my business, a passion and interest of mine and I always feel privileged when someone chooses to discuss concerns with me and I reiterate - what does being healthy mean to you? We need consistency in our lives in order to carry us over the lows as well as the boring bits - the highs can often take care of themselves but they will always have a downhill or at least a flat bit to follow. Sometimes, the boring is good - some familiar, chugging along, recharge and just hum drum normality but the lows are what are going to be the challenge. So maybe for a change, think further away from the immediate - if you are still not sleeping well, or have that growly digestive issue or are more irritable or anxious or emotional, maybe your diet and exercise choices are not to blame but there is something else staring you in the face. I am not suggesting you choose divorce (worked for me but hey! may not be your first option) but maybe that friend is actually draining you more than you realised. Maybe work is taking up too much from you and you just haven't seen it because it has been like this for so long. We adapt to what we do and then it becomes the norm and perhaps we then don't see when it is no longer servicing us, or we forget that we change as we age and want and need different things. I am not big into meditating per se, but I am into mindfulness, gratitude, recognising what I have rather than what I don't . Those are things that have helped me. Well that and stepping away from a few relationships that were not nourishing me and were taking up a lot of battery power. What other things might enhance your life? What might your changes be? Perhaps your book club just isn't right for you anymore or actually you really do not want to continue Tuesday morning walking group- it might seem so trivial but if you are thinking and worrying about it, it clearly is not trivial. What is one thing you could cut loose and what is one thing you could replace it with? If you are fed up, sad, stressed, exhausted, cant sleep, can't stop sleeping, get bloated or gassy, have no energy... then apart from any genuine medical concerns, maybe you need to look at your global health. As the motivational speaker Mel Robbins says - "No-one is coming to rescue you". You have to fix it. Take a good look, have a good think and perhaps it is something that diet and exercise are not a part of. psst... but keep going on the exercise!
The sun is out which can only mean TEACH ON THE BEACH! (The picture above is one of the beauties who joined me this week!! ) We have enjoyed a week of classes down on the local beach and have dodged low flying and quite inquisitive seagulls, ponies coming to see what is going on and a very sweet but very annoying lost dog. I mean, I didn't think he was lost - 2 ladies were walking past and he was with them and as he continued to bounce about over us and our mats with his muddy paws, dropping his stick and waiting for us to throw it, I was glaring at the retreating backs of the aforementioned women, thinking how unbelievably irresponsible ... just you WAIT until they return... until someone in the class mentioned that perhaps he wasn't actually their dog and might be lost... which it turns out, was absolutely the case... and two other walkers passed by and said "Ohhhh he's Lara's dog".... and kindly took him with them... I don't think they actually planned to but as I said "oh MARVELLOUS, you know where is from because he has been a total pain" and they were sort of left with no choice. I hope Lara and he are happily reunited and all is well. Anyway, it continues to be an absolute treat to be able to throw a. mat down on the beach and have our classes in such a setting. I will never take it for granted and I just love seeing you walking down the beach to join me so let's hope this weather lasts (with regular overnight rain please - wouldn't that be the perfect solution). Welcome to some new members this week - I have already seen one of you on the beach and look forward to seeing you online too.
So that was a busy weekend. As Lou and Clare were coming to the end of an epic 100km run around the Isle of Wight I was settling in for an early night before taking my bike over to ride the 100km the following day. I have never seen so many bikes - the ferry we were on had only 2 cars and otherwise it was wall to wall bikes with a lot of lycra in the lounges! Bearing in mind people were arriving on ferries from Portsmouth and Southampton as well as Lymington, that was A LOT of cyclists. The group I was in were faster than I would normally ride so it was quite the challenge. When we first sat down in the ferry and I saw one of our group wearing a "Team GBR Triathlete" I felt slightly doomed and to be fair, we were pretty fast straight from the onset.... I could see my 2 little energy bars were not quite going to cut it. This was going to take a lot of gritted teeth and hoping for the best. Very early on, Lou was driving (trying to avoid the thousands of cyclists) and overtook me, so she kindly pulled in and took a little video of us going past (pic above) and it was lovely to see her. Do you KNOW how hilly the island is? They just keep coming.. and you sort of can't really enjoy the downhill as you know it will only be short-lived before you start the climb again. I knew that I would do it. If I put my mind to something I will stick to it despite how much I may overthink and worry but I knew that I would finish it, no matter what. A small achievement to many but the start of something new for me and being in a group, God forbid I held anyone up. It was actually a year to the day... it was last year that I went over to the Island to watch Lou and Clare run 50km (although I did sort of wander off and find our island member Sarah and spent a very happy afternoon in her bluebell wood eating home made chocolate brownie but I was thinking of them) but I really missed being part of the event. After so many years of running, I realised how much I missed the build up and anticipation of an endurance event: the sense of camaraderie and being in something together . It was off the back of that that saw me come home and buy my first proper bike - I mean proper as in all the others have been acquired along the way and have been older and heavier than me. I have snuck off and done a few bits and bobs here and there and of course, had the shock of how much work I have to do to keep up with the clubs I have joined but here we are - one year later and a 100km ride around the island. The Military Road is forever etched in my memory - it was only 20 miles or so from the end and my legs were tired. Somehow for a short while, I found myself out of my group and riding alone and as I tried to ride up this endless hill, cycling slower than a toddler dawdling along, I was literally shouting out loud "WHY do I do this to myself? WHAT is this teaching me about myself?".....but keep peddling I did. You see we are funny creatures - the whole psychology behind a challenge is massive. Once I knew I was into the last few miles, I allowed myself to feel and acknowledge how tired my legs were - until we realised we could make the 5pm ferry at which point I found a new energy and powered on faster and stronger than ever - I was NOT going to miss that ferry! As I say, not a big deal to lots of people who did it and nothing like the achievement of Lou and Clare (I can't even begin to imagine how deep they had to dig) BUT I am chuffed and it is the first step on the ladder. It is all relative isn't it? What is not much to one person is a massive challenge to the next - whatever it is, be it physical or otherwise, to succeed in something that requires courage, discipline and commitment is worth celebrating. We have to dig deep to push out of our comfort zone but when we do, the feeling of achievement is so self rewarding. Sometimes I think we forget to reward ourselves or give recognition for when we have gone outside our comfort zone and achieved something and we deserve to remember - a pat on the back or a mental high five even if it is not shared with anyone else can really boost our mood and if we have tried, we ought to (even very quietly) give ourselves a "well done me!" For me, meeting and chatting to like minded people who are all there for their own reasons. Some built like professional athletes, some not, all doing their best - all encouraging and supporting each other. Mind you, the ones who whizzed by at the end while my legs were falling off, saying things like "nearly there".... not so keen on them to be honest! What next? I think I need to buy a road bike now to start the collection... this could become the new passion..... will I keep going... yes of course I will... I think....
I take my business very seriously but not myself, and every class is aimed at being FUN!
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I can’t recommend Juliet’s Pilates enough! Juliet is an amazing teacher, always working on self development to deliver the most amazing classes where you feel confident, uplifted and happy as well as getting a great workout, and currently all from the comfort of your own home. Juliet’s classes are interactive, she’s always watching, coaching, correcting and praising. You can ask questions before, during or after the zoom class or by email or phone. Being accessible is a huge asset, Juliet makes it very clear that communication is key. Combining a fun personality with extensive knowledge makes Juliet’s classes a must! Live zoom classes 4 days a week and a huge library of recorded classes at your convenience is fantastic when hands on classes aren’t possible. I would recommend anyone to sign up and enjoy feeling healthier and stronger under Juliet’s expert guidance
Debbie
Juliet’s Pilates lounge is easily accessible with live and recorded classes. We have oodles of fun in the live ones as well as serious Pilates of course! Juliet makes it interesting and manageable for everyone, all shapes, sizes, ability or not, even though she’s secretly a sadist and works you hard making sure you have the right posture and pose. We’re a very friendly group and love new people joining in, the more the merrier! Did I say she’s extremely professional too? Well underneath that bonkers exterior is a very caring professional Pilates instructor with heaps of knowledge and lovely leggings too!! oh and must not forget to mention Bertie the lab who often joins in...all pets welcome here.
Kimberley
Juliet is a brilliant teacher who really knows her stuff. She’s kind, gets to know each client and best of all she’s hilarious!
Kate
