Ohso

The Zanzibar Yoga Festival

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 11:17:50 GMT

Sitting in Southampton airport and other stuff

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 16:00:10 GMT

I want to keep it as on point and brief as I can and here are some cold, hard facts.

Doing SOMETHING is a lot better than doing NOTHING! Whatever equipment you use and program you follow is far less important than the fact that you show up. Regularly and consistently.

Only 30% of adults meet the resistance training guidelines and this drops to as low 10% for older adults.

What is required?

Training all major muscle groups at least once a week

Aiming for 2 - 3 sets per exercises

Using a weight that is getting challenging by the end of the set

Moving through full range of movement.

Now, why this is good news is that this can be acheived in whatever form of exercise takes your fancy and over here on our Pilates mat, we tick a lot of those boxes. Going into the 100 and wishing for the end, sitting tall in your Spine Twist and pushing for JUST ONE MORE rep is meeting this! We go through full range of movement, we use bodyweight as well as small equipment, so even if you are not lifting weights, you are doing your bit. (N.b. provided this is min. 3 times a week and you are pushing yourself to max ability in each of those sessions in one way or another and bringing in bands, small weights etc for additional resistance)

WHAT COUNTS

BODYWEIGHT EXERCISES AT HOME

BANDS, BALLS, BODY WEIGHT, LOOPS

A QUICK EXPRESS SET WHEN YOU GET BACK FROM YOUR RUN/WALKING THE DOG

15 MINS IN THE KITCHEN - YOU DON'T NEED TO COMPLICATE IT

IT DOESNT NEED TO BE FANCY, STRUCTURED OR ELABORATE. IT JUST NEEDS TO HAPPEN

Generally ALL types of resistance training work, as long as they are performed with high efforts which means that you get to a point where you are almost at failure. In other words, choose what you enjoy as you are more likely to stick to it and work harder at ut.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY and the BEST exercise programme to do is the one you enjoy and will be more likely to stick at!

MEMBERS. We have multiple classes involving strength and resistance every week.

NON MEMBERS - I am just putting dates together for another 4 week strength program. Please email me if you are interested. More details to follow

(I am delighted to be starting a 4 week strength training session with my local running club so I really am doing my best to share the love! )

Why runners need to lift weights

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:09:06 GMT

Let's start with

Improves balance and coordination

Improves bone density

Boosts metabolism and weight management

Enhances mental health

Helps with daily activity

A few more?!

Improves posture by strengthening your core and back muscles

Reduces risk of injury by strengthening joints, ligaments, and tendons

Helps regulate blood sugar levels and lowers risk of type 2 diabetes

Improves sleep quality and helps you fall asleep faster

Enhances athletic performance (speed, power, endurance)

Slows down age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)

The ACSM (American college of Sports Science) is the bible of the fitness world with regards to fitness and exercise prescription and has recently done a huge survey, publishing it’s findings in a new report which has got the fitness world very excited as it is the first survey of it’s kind since 2009.

But what are the 34 moves?

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 18:07:17 GMT

We have been breaking them down, building them up... but do you want to know more?

The famous 34 Pilates mat exercises come from Joseph Pilates’ book Return to Life Through Contrology.

Joseph Pilates didn’t sit down and decide, “I’ll make 34 moves.” This was simply the set he arrived at after years of testing what actually worked.

So how did he choose them?

He wanted a complete, full-body system —one that covered core strength, spinal movement, flexibility, and coordination. He worked with dancers, gymnasts, and even boxers, and drew heavily from rehabilitation work and breathing techniques. All of this influenced what made the final cut. Quite simply, he kept what worked and dropped what didn’t.

His philosophy was clear: do fewer exercises, but do them really well . This idea of efficiency is key—and it’s where we need the discipline to sometimes slow things down, make movements smaller, and really make them count.

He believed that these 34 exercises were enough to work the entire body without being excessive.

The order matters

The sequence isn’t random. Traditionally, you might warm up with things like spotty dogs or star jumps before coming to the mat for The Hundred. This is where we start to connect breath with movement and switch on the core—what Pilates called the Powerhouse (often referred to as “the centre,” or as I like to say, the engine room). From there, we build into more challenging strength and control work, finishing with integrated, full-body movements.

The 34 are essentially his “best of” list —a tight, well-thought-out sequence refined over time, not a magic number he was aiming for. He created many more exercises, and through first- and second-generation teachers, there’s now huge variety. But if you go to a class and work through “The 34,” you’ll find the same movements all over the world—just taught with different cues and emphasis.

I really like that. Despite all the variety out there, it connects us through a shared foundation.

Bringing it to our mats

We’re not dancers or gymnasts—we’re real people using these exercises (among many others) to move better, build strength, improve endurance, and increase mobility. What we all share, though, are the principles: breath, control, precision, coordination, and centering .

I truly believe all levels can work with the 34, because there are so many ways to adapt and modify. Over the past few weeks in our intermediate classes, we’ve been breaking the exercises down and building them back up so we can run through them in sequence—and identify the ones we want to improve or better understand. I’ll be bringing this into the all-level classes in the coming weeks too, and all sessions will be recorded so you can revisit them—because practice really is essential.

Joseph Pilates didn’t see his method (which he called Contrology) as something you only did for an hour on the mat. He believed it should carry into how you move and live every day. His famous quote, “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness,” really shows just how forward-thinking he was.

So with that in mind—practice matters. Use the library, revisit your nemesis exercises, and keep working at them.

Yes, running through the 34 can be tough—but it’s so worth it . It flows, it challenges us, and it leaves us feeling stronger, more open, and more connected.

It just works.

New in library this week

We have been far more interactive this week so less new content but last Saturday's 30 mins class (and tomorrow's) are recorded, plus Pilates and Strength training week 2 from today. (weight training)

I suggest you all try yesterday's "breaking down the moves" class as we start with a bit of a twist on 100, 1 leg circle, single and double leg stretch, spine stretch and roll up by doing them standing. A different approach on a familiar move. (The 34 moves and how to break them down)

How did you get on with some of the Q and A/workshop style classes this week? I've really enjoyed them (but no, it's not all about me!)

Next week's classes

Tomorrow's extra Easter ad hoc 30 mins will be reformer on the mat. Details in calendar of what you need to be prepared.

Easter Monday class is an express 30 mins.

Wed extra 08.30am

Friday - no live classes - PLEASE stay with your schedule and go into the library and select a class from last Friday to keep you on track.

APRIL PTPB

Pass the Pilates ball.

This has been a daft/fun thing that has been doing the (social media) rounds and is into it's 10th year and I thought this year, we at JP, could join in.

So... you need your Pilates soft/squishy/mini ball and your mobile. Prop your mobile up to film you and get someone off screen to throw the ball to you which you catch - you then do something like a squat with it between your legs or a one arm circle or lunge holding it in front of you - any of the many moves we have done (you can call me for inspiration) or simply just catch and then throw... I will then link all the little clips together to make a montage so it looks like one is throwing it to the next and so on.

As you are looking at the camera, have the ball thrown in on your RIGH T and throw it to your LEFT - that. keeps us all uniform! if you what's app me the video I can edit off the bits either side. Keep it short - 2- 3 secs should give you time but dont rush it! if in doubt just catch it, smile it at the camera and throw it on again. Get the kids involved and get creative. On the boat, on the beach, in the garden, in your camper van, down on the allotment, wearing Easter bunny ears, in pyjamas.. you get the picture. Send in as many as you like - the more the merrier. I will put it all together and post at the end of Easter on Insta and Facebook and will share on you tube too for those who don't have social media. This will not make any money, win any prizes or achieve anything other than being a part of a fun, daft Pilates thing that started in Australia and has grown legs around the world( I was going to say grown balls but maybe not... )

Dates for your diary

Coffee and catch up TUESDAY 21 April - details in calendar

Summer picnic - June 24th, Haunted History walk and pub supper - July 8th and Isle of Wight Revitalise day July 23 - all details to follow but save the date.

If you know anyone who might like to try a class or join one of our ad hoc 30 mins, there is a stand alone charge and all welcome! Send them my way.

Amongst other things, I am currently working on my content on You Tube and creating a couple of playlists to share with "Friends of Juliet's Pilates" so class attendees who I may not be currently seeing are going to be sent a link. I will get back to you when I have completed this.

If you have not yet, why not join our what's app group - an easy way to keep in touch and swap ideas, share class feedback, arrange lifts to socials and more. What's app me and I can add you to the group .

Have a very happy Easter,

Juliet x

Julietspilates.com email juliet@julietspilates.com call 0773 6359062

Week 3. 2026.

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:06:42 GMT

In like a lamb, out like a lion....

Due to the algorithms, or whatever secret force is at work ... when I go into my social media accounts (which I do more often than I like to admit), I am absolutely bombarded with posts on health, fitness, nutrition, high energy exercise, low energy exercise and goals, goals, goals.

Setting goals or big commitments for the upcoming year can be very overwhelming, never more so than when Winter feels never ending. Why is our tax return due in January? Why do I have my house, car and public liability insurances all due in the same month as my post Christmas credit card bills? Why hasn't it stopped raining?

So I am borrowing March's statement and turning it on it's head. March claims "In like a lion, out like a lamb" while my current mood for January is set at "in like a lamb, out like a lion."

This year I am choosing to embrace hibernation for a bit longer and while I have any amount of ideas and plans for our upcoming year, I am choosing to park some things up and to accept that if I don't put on my full set of amour and set out into 2026 to conquer the world, no one will really mind. I hardly know myself... but I have noticed that while I have done the unthinkable of occasionally leaving things for later, and sitting on the sofa with a cup of tea, that the sun still rises, the world still turns and me? well I feel a lot better!

I hope I am carrying that over into our classes too. While I always want to leave you feeling motivated and challenged, I have also enjoyed some "back to basics" work and some recaps.

I like to have a purpose to my classes and talk endlessly about learning, but sometimes I think it is ok to choose rather than to learn something new, to instead practise something already known and enjoy the comfort zone of familiarity, confident in the ability to complete the task.

I gave myself an afternoon off yesterday and went with Lisa to see "Dear England" at our local and truly amazing theatre, The Mayflower. We had the full West End cast and it was spectacular. I felt moved, emotional, inspired, uplifted. At the end, there was a full house standing ovation, as we sang along to Sweet Caroline, which isn't bad on a rainy mid week afternoon.

If you get the chance, go and see it. Brilliantly presented and just a joy.

Talking joy... The New Forest and Pilates both got a mention in this week's The Arches. Honestly? my cup runneth over.

What is coming up?

I look forward to seeing as many of you as can make it at The Haven for a coffee and catch up on Wed 21st around 10am and due to the feedback will definitely look to make this a monthly, informal gathering. I will of course, email venues and dates.

I am going to be dropping some extra, 30 min classes into the library from time to time. Keep an eye on your calendar. Typically around 7pm on a Tuesday evening and 9am on a Saturday. The 30 mins classes have proved to be really popular. These will always be recorded and will have a variety of themes. To kick this off, please put Sat Jan 31 in your diary, This will be an all levels class with a gentle focus on movement and breath to help with cranky hips, grumpy lower backs and sleepy pelvic floors. Link in calendar.

New in the library

Quite a lot!

Monday's workshop on side planks/side bend, .

Tuesdays' all levels functional strength with a nod to taking it back to basics

Thursday's 8am new Reformer on the mat and 9am's shoulders and upper backs strength and mobility.

Finally, I leave you with the image below that I personally feel is quite heartening for a powerful year ahead.

Have a great weekend,

Week 1. 2026. Happy NEW year or just happy year?

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 13:22:40 GMT

Well, we did it! We knocked 2025 out of the park....

Happy NEW year or Happy year?

Firstly and most importantly, HAPPY 2026 to you all and may it be healthy, peaceful and productive. Welcome new members, welcome back returning members and I am very excited to look forward to a busy year of movement, health and fabulousness. Online, we are bigger than ever and I have lots to bring you.

What does this coming year look like for you? Do you have changes you want to implement? are there things you want to take up or give up?

“In order for it to be a new year, changes need to be made, otherwise it is just another year.” Anon.

I was sacked by my dentist once. As he said, I had ignored 2 check up reminders so why should he be responsible for me? I was mortified (it was back in the days when I was young and indestructible) but it was never going to happen again. Lesson well learned.

Ever wondered why schools charge a penalty if you take your child out during term time?

If your child misses classes, it can a) reflect negatively on the school when the child falls behind and b) put unfair pressure on the educating team to catch the child back up.

You know where I am going with this, don’t you…

I am NOT a fan of new year resolutions. The days are still short, dark and cold. Motivation may be low and huge life changes are not always sustainable. However if you have taken the plunge to sign up to a course of classes and for the purpose of this article, lets say Pilates, then something motivated you and a degree of commitment and discipline is required.

There are always occasions when “life”happens and illness or emergency cause chaos but it is that regular rather limp excuse that can all too quickly become a habit and before you know it, you’ve missed half the term. Now while you are wasting your money, you are also putting your poor teacher under extra and unfair pressure as you constantly play catch up.

In more simple terms, why should I give you more time, attention and energy just because you cant be bothered to turn up like everyone else and then you are left behind? Sorry but there it is!!

PILATES IS BIGGER THAN EVER AND THE CRAZE IS GROWING but it is a lifestyle method and to be seen as the latest fad is to completely undervalue it’s purpose.

Pilates is a progressive form of exercise and movement that, the more you do, the more you understand and absorb. There are so many elements, fundamentals, principles and layers that you cannot possibly learn it all in a few weeks (DON”T get me started on “express” teaching qualifications and if your teacher hasn’t had YEARS of training, leave!)

It takes years of regular practise but it is the regular practise that makes it a routine that makes it a lifestyle which gives you the results for life.

REMEMBER - PILATES IS FOR LIFE, NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS.

If you want the results, you need to put in the leg work. Fancy studios, expensive leggings, instagram ready hair and makeup will NOT make you better at Pilates.

Regular attendance, learning a little bit more each class, practising your homework and NOT using an excuse to skip a class will all contribute to you achieving what it was you signed up for in the first place.

Pilates requires consistency, regular practise, patience, discipline, concentration, plenty of learning, lots of repetition and the results will be beyond measure as your mind quietens, your body responds and you walk taller and stronger.

I cannot speak for my peers but for me, someone who regularly skips a class is a real PITA. They will always be behind and will miss fundamentals and essential practise which can distract the rest of the class when they return and play catch up.

Someone said to me last year “ I don’t see why it matters. I have already paid you….” - which is to totally miss the point (and is really rather disrespectful to your teacher and the time, preparation and effort they put in!)

I am not a machine, despite what you might think. I have the same off days, lack of motivation and “I just want to lie in bed/on the sofa” as anyone else and dragging myself to train some days is no easier for me than it is for you!

Yes, I have the benefit of a very well equipped home studio but I also have a cosy bed, a comfy sofa and a big tv. So I do know!

So… on those days when it feels like too much effort, maybe remind yourself a) WHY you signed up in the first place b) WHAT it is costing you and c) HOW on earth you can ever improve towards those goals if you fall at the second hurdle.

Exercise wise, there is NOTHING more satisfying than completing that session or class that you really didn’t feel like doing.

So before you think that you don’t have time/just can’t make today/have so many other things to do, remind yourself of the importance of commitment, self discipline and being accountable. Enjoy your class, move your body, quieten your mind and take those skills into all the other ares of your life…. And avoid seriously peeign off your teacher who is working so hard for YOU!

“New goals don’t deliver results. New lifestyles do and lifestyle is a process, not an outcome. For this reason, all your energy should go into building better habits, not chasing better results.” James Clear

Week 52. Goodbye 2025

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 11:26:54 GMT

Well, we did it! We knocked 2025 out of the park....

Well, we did it! We knocked 2025 out of the park!

What a year we have had. We have welcomed lots of new members (with open arms - several this week!), we have waved goodbye (temporarily I hope) to some of our members and our online community is bigger than ever. As we add Italy to our reach, we can now boast a weekly reach into 7 countries.

SO MUCH MORE than Pilates....

We have had a busy year. Walking in Bolderwood followed by hot chocolate , and two visits to the Isle of Wight, one for a lovely walk over Tennyson Downs and a pub lunch and one for our fabulous Revitalise day at Sarah’s flower farm where we painted, Pilates’ed and walked along the river followed by a delicious lunch. We had a private tour of Battersea Power Station followed by lunch at Dishoom, and we hunted for ghosts on a Halloween tour of Lymington. We have had monthly challenges and been educated with a mixture of specialists in the world of health and wellness in our Teatime Talks . We had a fantastic Summer solstice class in the coastal grounds at Pylewell and met regularly on the beach for Teach from the Beach including a very sunny birthday class for me with tea and cake. We had our Autumn “Introduction to weights” extra classes and celebrated our 5 year anniversary online by meeting up for a class back where it all started in Beaulieu village hall.

This year we have seen a new knee, a new hip, a broken ankle (not from my classes!) 2 new puppies and 3 weddings and of course we wrapped it all up with our annual highlight - our Christmas lunch where this year 50 of us met to welcome the start of Christmas, the end of a busy year and to enjoy each other’s company.

I always strive to keep things fresh, progressive and motivating - a little of you what you know and come to expect but never enough that you can anticipate or assume! To that end, we have mixed classes up and I bring in as much variation as possible. For example we ended this year by shortening our Friday weight training classes to a clean 30 mins followed by 15 mins of intense mobility - in effect 2 separate and short classes that have been accessed a lot in the library. We have had Pilates “funk” where I have poetic license to put a spin on familiar moves and add a little power or HIIT or something else to just change things up.

Our library has grown and with 12 categories to choose from and several hundred cases, I am hugely proud to see nearly 60 hours a week of access while I was away proving how disciplined and committed you are! Being online gives us SO much more!

I have decided to start stepping back from face to face work as my online work grows and as I look towards more travel, less face to face commitment and being able to take you with me. This year I have taught or posted online from the Austrian alps to Athens to Wales to Tanzania to Carfest to Crete to Cornwall.

To that end, this Spring term will be my last one teaching at The Arches. Not an easy decision as I have really loved being a part of the team and working with all the wonderful clients I have met. However, I look towards new challenges and thank all those I have had the pleasure of working with and of course invite you all to join our online community!

The weekly wrap u p may become the fortnightly.... with direct emails to online members of any calendar updates - (sorry, if you don't read your emails, not sure what else I can do....!)

All that remains is for me to wish you all a very, very happy, healthy 2026 . As I pack the decs away, tidy up and start adding new content to our online calendar, I am thoroughly refreshed, motivated and ready for THE YEAR OF THE HORSE …… and I quote… . ”The year of the HORSE… the shedding and completion year of the snake in 2025 cleared the path for THE HORSE. The year of the horse sets the intention to begin anew, welcoming freedom and trusting relationships. Energy alignment of creativity, taking precise action while harnessing charisma and passion will launch a successful 2026!”

2025 Year of the Snake

Inner growth

Renewal

Sacred pause.

Transformation

Subconscious healing

Trust

Shedding

Soul work

Spiritual depth

2026 Year of the Horse

Clarity

Freedom

Courage

Expansion

Movement

Breakthroughs

Intentional action

Boldness

Magnetic energy

Momentum

So ….. are you going to watch from the sidelines or are you going to jump on and hold tight for the ride?

See you online next year xx

Week 51. Weddings, Christmas and Pyjamas.

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:55:54 GMT

Weddings, pyjamas classes and working out with concrete weights

Well, that was a wonderful trip. We had the very happiest time and I was so proud of my beautiful daughter and my very wonderful new son in law! If ever someone has found their soul mate, it is those two!

I learned quickly to accept that "this is Tanzania" when it comes to what will be done and when. The most significant example being a very important delivery for the set up. Work went on for several days beforehand to get everything ready and deliveries were arriving daily with crockery, chairs, tables etc... - as this particular delivery got delayed and became less and less likely (despite so much planning in advance), in the end, Rosie set up a what's app group amongst her local friends, sending out an SOS and the response was incredible. Within hours, cars started arriving and we worked alongside an army of helpers all day to bring it all together. It made me so proud to see what a fantastic community she is a part of and how actually, this only added value as this was all done with love and made it all the more personal.

The wedding was perfect in every way. Very organic, very relaxed and a huge amount of love. Small bridesmaids running around barefoot, a guard of honour made up of Cricket bats, a good luck double rainbow a couple of days before, rain in the morning (good luck in Tanzania) followed by a sunny afternoon.

As you know, I carried "The dress" in a carry on case. 25 hours of travel door to door. THE most stressful thing, I cannot tell you. When it came to steam ironing it, I practised on various times before I approached it... and found it a mix of mindfulness mixed with abject terror. I ended up doing an hour or so most days in the lead up. I was an absolute Rottweiler about protecting it and was very, very relieved to hand it over!

I was a very, very proud Mother of the bride and was overwhelmed with everyone coming up to meet me and tell me what a fabulous daughter I have!

I am thrilled to see how many of you have been using the library. I get the data each week and last week you worked through a total of 57 hours of classes - that is just fantastic!! Don't worry - I don't go into who has done what.... I could but honestly? who has time in their life? Well done those who have and doesn't the library work well! Extra well done to those who connected with fellow members to be accountable and not just roll over for an extra hour in bed!

I am sure you don't mind a rather brief blog this week and I cannot wait to see you all again - I have really missed you.

Right - off to dig out some sparkly leggings and find my Xmas t shirt. See you soon and have a fabulous weekend.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 48. Rugby, Red ribbons and my wonderful clients!

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 20:39:14 GMT

First things first. A HUGE thank you to YOU

Our 4th Christmas lunch was without doubt, the best yet. 47 wonderful you's came to join me yesterday on a stunningly sunny, crispy day for what has become my Christmas highlight.

We were all too busy talking to bother taking many photos so I chose not to share here as I didn't want to select some and miss others but I have posted on socials if you are interested in a few snaps.

I continue to be quite overwhelmed by what a fantastic community we have all built together and what friendships we have. Please know how much I appreciate how far you travel, how much effort you go to, to move work and other commitments, dogs, school pick ups and please know how much your company is enjoyed.

Fiona once again, very kindly hand made some gifts for us all - a little Pilates ring Christmas tree dec tied to a muslin bag of mulled wine ingredients, beautifully wrapped, packed and delivered even though she is currently Down under and couldn't join us. Thank you Fiona - you are SO kind.

As I was working on a little daft poem to read out to you all, how could I possibly have known that Lou (she of the whip rounds) was also doing the same! What are the chances of that? Jan very kindly read it out and I copy below what was delivered to much well deserved laughter. What friends you are to me! I cannot believe the trouble you went to, and I feel very spoiled and very lucky,

A massive thank you also to those who very kindly contributed to my Christmas present..... a very, very generous John Lewis gift voucher and anyone who knows me, knows that JL is my mothership and this is just THE most perfect gift, and I really look forward to a browse once I return home from my trip. My idea of heaven and with a whopping gift voucher to spend, it just got better!! Thank you very, very much. Seeing you all means the world to me and I feel truly blessed with what we have created between us.

I really treasure our get togethers and I hope we can persuade some of our further flung members to come over next year.

It's true. I do have the best clients and I do truly thank you all.

I also had a poem which I am going to record and put in our library incase you would like to see it and below are the words to Lou's brilliant poem, read yesterday by Jan. Thank you very much Lou - it is brilliant!

.. .."At Juliet's Pilates, we bend, we extend,

We discover muscles we didnt know we could bend

She cues with a smile "Just one more" (it's a lie)

But somehow we do it - we don't even know why!

Her Teasers are tough, her Planks are a test

Her ring squeezes feel like a seasonal quest.

Yet we keep coming back, like elves on a mission

'cause Juliet makes pain feel like a holiday tradition.

So here's our guide through the festive reformer -

A Pilates instructor and posture transformer.

May your Christmas be merry, your holiday bright

And may have fewer sore abs.... at least for one night! "

Moving on....

I had a bag of wicker type hearts in my garage and had the bright idea of dressing them with red velvet bows. I wanted to have big, puffy bows that were tied at the front and then add loops to hang them from my stairs.

I could see very clearly what I wanted. I duly ordered several rolls of red velvet ribbon and collected the hearts from the garage and dusted them off. Have you tried tying big, puffy bows with the velvet right side out, and to have the full bow showing? Have you? My delightfully creative mood was starting to wane as me and the ribbons got into quite a muddle. I found some online tutorials but it wasn't working. I parked it up and wrote all my Christmas cards instead.

Anyway, I was all set to go to bloodycardiff the following weekend... (my childhood friend has lived in the same house for over 30 years and in the days before sat nav I would get lost Every. Single Time.. EVERY. SINGLE time... to the extent that my young daughters thought that where Aunty Emma lived was actually called bloodycardiff and it has stuck! )

Between us, with 4 hands and a lot of stop/start and You tube tutorials, I am now the proud owner of lots of fabulous red bows and the staircase is looking wonderful. We did discover possibly THE most annoying woman online who, although very good at tying bows, was just infuriating- she kept saying "easy peasy, lemon squeezy" which really wound me up. Patronising baggage... Imagine my horror the next day when I said the same thing, not once but twice. I am clearly very easily influenced...

My rather amazing surprise Christmas gift was tickets with Emma to watch the All Blacks v Wales in the iconic Millennium Principality stadium last week and as we walked through city centre, I was saying to her, "I don't know why, I just really fancy red bows. I don't know where the idea came from".... it was quite a comedy moment as we looked about us at M&S, Next, John Lewis and absolutely EVERYWHERE were ... .big red velvet bows! The power of subconscious marketing! What was I saying about being easily influenced?

Despite not being Welsh, hearing almost 70,000 voices singing the Welsh national anthem (acapalla, no band) was incredibly moving and watching the Hakka live is very impressive.

Today is my last 2 classes before I head off to Tanzania for my daughter's wedding BUT I will be back and running classes around Christmas. There will be Christmas jumpers, pyjamas, themes galore - please see your calendar.

In the meantime, PLEASE do use the library. I know some of you say you find it difficult to discipline yourself so why not make a date with another member? If you both have smart phones and tablets/laptops, you can FaceTime eachother and then start the same class together on your tablet but if not, just try to stick to the same timetable, pick a class the night before and get to your mat to keep some routine.

So I will be back to see and chat to you all before Christmas and in the meantime, keep up your practise and see you soon xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 47. Women of a certain age

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 17:34:38 GMT

Why "women of a certain age" must be cancelled

I am sure many of you like me, followed Sara Cox on her amazing Children in Need challenge last week.

I always enjoy the endurance events. I left the tv on overnight when Joe Wicks was doing his 24 hour fitness challenge, tuned in from 5am onwards when the adorable Owain Wyn Evans was drumming for 24 hours and who can forget Sophie Ellis Bextor singing and dancing her way into the morning from a very long night.

Sara however, really got me. From the word go, I have been following her online. Her training and her prep. in the weeks preceding and the fanfare of her start through the Scott Mills radio show. I have sobbed at her progress and, talking to friends, find that many of you have been equally moved.

I know many, many others have achieved far greater things. Kevin Sinfield proved a friendship beyond all measure by running 7 marathons in 7 days to raise money for his beloved friend and rugby colleague Rob Burrows who died in 2024 from MND.

There is no doubt that people push themselves beyond all measure in the name of love and loyalty but Sara! This one's for you.

Watching her genuine suffering and pain went right through me. The fact is that she is not an athlete, has never even run a half marathon and now has the whole nation watching her. How could she stop? She said herself that while her legs are agony, it is temporary. She is putting in the miles to raise money for children who live their whole lives in chronic pain. Their bravery pushed her on - who couldn't fail to be deeply moved by Jude, a 20 year old with spina bifida. His parents were told he would never walk and while he has benefited from treatment and support financed by Children in Need, he walked a rainy, chilly, hilly 8km with Sara - an endurance event he had to train for and what courage! I wish I had been there to cheer him over the line.

I chose the photo above because it shows real emotion. While getting regular updates about the amazing money she was raising (now topping £11m), Sara was in agony, scared of failure and totally exhausted.

I do wonder, nearly a week after finishing, as she still can't walk properly and is still in severe pain, she may have done lasting damage. While not quite in her league, I had to admit that after my last Moonwalk a couple of years ago, perhaps 26 miles on these beaten up hips and knees is no longer for me.... whether she will see lasting damage remains to be seen but I applaud her and have sobbed for her at what she has achieved.

However... let's talk "women of a certain age."

Sara was interviewed regularly by whatever Radio 2 dj was live (again - when I have done endurance events, I have had to really go into my. head - how on earth she gave interviews, chatted to supporters, waved at passers by.... amazing) and Trevor Nelson mentioned how well she was doing and referenced "women of a certain age" and she, quite rightly put him firmly in his place and from there it gained momentum. What does that patronising, judgmental, pigeon holeing, sexist comment even mean? Certainly got my gander up.

I can remember when I used to teach at Lymington Health and leisure, seeing a class called "aerobics for over 50's" and being appalled - and I was a baby faced 40 something at the time but even then, I was amazed that women allowed themselves to to be categorised.

Having grown up in a hideously misogynistic home, I am probably fiercer than some but it still amazes me when women allow themselves to be patronised.

So GO SARA! Both men and women have picked up the chant and it has been referenced over and over since she started it last week- what relevance "women of a certain age?"

We all know that I am always beating the drum about age being irrelevant and I frequently brag about the positive attitude and dedication of my clients and really, as I keep saying -it's not age. It's attitude.

I was quite frustrated that I hadn't done more than make donations on my phone so next year we are going to do something together for Children in Need.... I am not sure what yet, but I am thinking. About 15 years ago, I did a Pilates marathon where I taught from 8am to 8pm for Naomi House Children's hospice - does anyone remember that? Some people did every class and we had a huge turnout using the large studio at Lymington Health and Leisure (they of the over 50's aerobics!) ...thinking cap on and ideas welcomed.

Must say, watching the challenge left me feeling very nostalgic for Yorkshire!!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 46. One body, one system.

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:28:12 GMT

Why we can't spot train: Why Pilates shouldn't just fix that one thing

I have often been asked the best way to lose tummy fat or tone up legs. Is Pilates best for the core and can we do more pelvic floor work?

The fact is that we can't spot train. In personal training or the gym, your gym instructor will advise the need to look at the whole picture: to reduce overall body fat (to get to the tummy) and to build a balanced strength program (to tone up the legs).

Pilates was never designed to "spot fix" - yes it helps back problems and yes it helps build awareness and correct activation of the core muscles and pelvic floor but it is not an isolated type of work. Pilates is at its most effective and powerful when it is embraced the way Joe Pilates designed it - as a whole body system.

We work on breath, posture, alignment, concentration, control, quality of movement - you'll hear me saying over and over "better to reduce the range/slow it down/don't do as many" in order to get the full purpose of the exercise.

Pilates is a form of exercise to establish a balance between the mind and body, to give each movement quality and purpose, to enable one fully functioning system. You know how I have talked in earlier posts about seeing the body as a big department store with lots of different departments taking on their own tasks.

There are so many takes on Pilates now and so many versions with social media sending us into a frenzy of who can do the craziest (and quite frankly, sometimes unsafe) exercises which can influence our thinking - that perhaps we are not doing enough. But it is important to remember that Pilates isn't about impressing the neighbours or getting more "likes".

Learning to trust in our own strength and control can empower us in other areas of our lives. Learning to breathe correctly through challenging movement can educate us to use our breath in other stressful areas of our lives, in addition to controlling safe and effective movement.

Learning how the power comes from our centre, (our engine room) can teach us how to move with more control and precision.

Try to avoid focusing purely on getting a flatter tummy or more tone in your arms or focusing all about the pelvic floor - think about all the departments working in harmony together to connect one system to function to it's maximum ability.

I've had a bit of nonsense over the last couple of weeks that has knocked me off my perch much more than I had realised, and my body has told me about it. I have not been able to (or inclined to) pick up the same weights or meet my usual spinning goals and so I have instead used the time to take it back and practise some basic Pilates, working on my breath, my control, my concentration and using this as an opportunity to allow myself to slow down and really embrace the basics, and I have really loved it! It has quietened my mind, calmed my system and reminded me of the whole body approach that Mr. Pilates wanted us to embrace.

So perhaps, if you are tired, stressed, not firing on all cylinders or just want to take a more scenic route, then drop it down a gear and enjoy a basic class that allows you to recharge, reconnect and rebalance.

Worked for me!

With that in mind, let me share with you a lovely quote I saw this week, that really applied to me -

"If your peace depends on everything going right, that is not peace, that is control.

Learning to be steady in uncertainty - that is real growth". Anon.

Merchandise!

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:13:06 GMT

Christmas T shirts and Christmas cards.

2024 design.

I have new T shirts!

I am putting in an order in different colours of last year's t shirts and am terribly pleased with myself for this year's design - please see below.

Please note that this will mimic last year's, with text only so don't be distracted with the surrounding gold stars.

2025 design - Please see only text, not surrounding stars. (Try singing to "The 12 days of Christmas" and I think a rendition at our Christmas lunch would be delightful!!!

Please email me with your interest - order going in next week!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 45. Time for hibernation.

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 18:40:34 GMT

Maybe the hedgehogs have the right idea!

I reckon I was a bear or a tortoise in a former life. As soon as the clocks change, I am only too ready to start hunkering down at home, venturing out as little as possible. As the nights grow longer, I need to be practically shoe horned out of the house after dark and actively seek out cosy time at home.

In all fairness, if we hark back to our earliest ancestors, they would have lived by the rise and set of the sun and would have been bedded down as dusk took hold so there is undoubtedly something deep in our makeup,

We live busier and busier lives. "I'll have to check my diary", "I will see if I can squeeze it in", "I just don't have time", "I can't do everything" are claims we all make and probably quite often and how exhausting is this?

Cheaper travel, booking online, home delivery and worldwide access gives us more to occupy our time than ever before and trying to fit it all in can become stressful and take away from the actual pleasure of what we signed up for in the first place.

Why do so many of us react with horror at the prospect of how quickly Christmas is creeping up on us? Is it because we have so much to do, buy, cook, prepare, host, wrap, polish? Pack that around work, family, Pilates!!, lifting weights!! and all our other responsibilities that the pleasure is almost parked to one side.

As the days shorten, we get less sunlight but rather than adapting like our forefathers, we just plough on and keep going while wondering why we are picking up every passing bug, feeling exhausted and, looking less than our perky best. Perhaps a little part time hibernation to top up the batteries?

In Iceland there is a wonderful tradition called "Jólabókaflóð" or "Christmas book flood". This is a celebration where people exchange books on Christmas Eve then spend the night reading their new books while enjoying hot drinks and chocolate. Now that sounds to me like Heaven on earth!

Why save it for Christmas? Maybe instead of dashing out to do a/b/c, it makes far more sense just now and again, to shut the door, turn off your phone and lie on the sofa with a good book and a hot cuppa or go to bed really early, take your book and hot choc. with you and enjoy a mini hibernation.

As someone who hibernates very well, I can highly recommend it!

Forwarded to me from an online member and a good reminder for us all- "Good posture can be successfully acquitted only when the entire mechanism of the body is under perfect control" - Joseph Pilates. I bet he would have approved of a little mini hibernation!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 44. Ghost walks

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:13:21 GMT

Surrendering to what we have no control over!

On Tuesday evening, a lovely group of 22 of us got together to walk the back streets and dark corners of Lymington, being entertained and spirited into many a ghoulish tale by "Haunted New Forest's" historian and ghost hunter Hugh.

I first met Hugh back in the summer when my elder daughter and I joined him for a ghost hunting walk at Rufus Stone and I was so impressed with his story telling, knowledge of local history and and how he made it fun and inclusive.

When I moved my classes online all those years ago (5 years and 7 months to be precise) the social side of our online life was so important to many of us for companionship and a regular check in with friendly faces. Not least those of us who live by ourselves. This is a large part of my business that I take very seriously and really value and to that end, I organise various social events that are always so well supported. Those of us who may be exclusively online really enjoy the social side of getting to know "the person away from the mat" and I take huge pride in the amount of friendships that have formed and how we have grown. Occasionally online members message me to say that they are not well or are recovering from something but will still log in just to be there, to see everyone and to feel the company of their fellow class mates - a bonus of being online and accessible!

With our socials in mind, I am always thinking of things that may be a bit different and entertaining and with the exception of our upcoming Christmas lunch, this was a super way to wrap up a very busy 2025.

Hugh told us some fascinating stories about how pubs got their names, famous smugglers and ruthless kings of the dark ages. I think we may have scared the spirits away as there were a lot of us but there is no doubt that Lymington is steeped in history and has, over the years entertained many a royal as well as noblemen, temptresses, ruffians and ne'er do wells - some of whom may still be lurking in the shadows.

Most of us met first to eat before setting off into the dark night and it was a really fun and lively evening. It was a pleasure to see you all.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 43. Is Pilates easy?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:39:40 GMT

If you think Pilates is easy, read on...

Ok, it's not a competition. This is not a "my workout is harder than your workout" type post... after all, there is room and a necessity for a variety of exercises as I keep banging on about. However....

Most people who attend Pilates do so because they want to learn about the practise. It may have been gentle encouragement from a friend or medical professional or curiosity due to so much media attention. Whatever the reason, the fact is that if you are reading this, you have an association with me and therefor Pilates.

I have had so many people tell me over the years that Pilates is easy or boring and that is absolutely fine. It is not my job to try and convert a reluctant individual although I will always suggest you try a few teachers before you write if off. After all, if you have a bad haircut you don't just decide to avoid hairdressers for ever more! You shop around, ask friends for recommendations and find the one that suits you.

BREAKING NEWS. If you find your class easy, it doesn't mean you are so advanced that you are beyond the level. It means, I am afraid, that possibly, you are missing the point. If you are very experienced, then you can gain so much from a slower class, focusing on more basic moves as an opportunity to get even deeper into your practise.

If you are experienced, you have no excuse but to constantly revisit all the fundamentals and principles that Joe Pilates' work is all about. If you are a beginner, there is SO MUCH to learn and think about that you can't afford to let your mind wander for a single moment.

That said, you want your teacher to be clearly teaching and explaining the purpose and benefit of the exercise alongside the principles so if this isn't being covered, perhaps you need to consider someone who you connect with a little more.

Advanced need not mean harder exercises but a better awareness, connection and control of the movements.

Pilates is not a race . It is a method. It is a practise of movement, of control and awareness, of being connected to our centre, being conscious of movement with purpose, with coordination and balance and grace - skills to enhance our every day life.

The Method/Pilates/Contrology is a life skill. Something you can dip into when you need to find control, or the connection or the balance. It needn't be a full one hour class and with the development of technology there are lots of bite size options online to guide you if you don't feel confident to guide yourself. To unroll your mat, find a quiet 10 minutes and choose a few exercises to calm your busy brain, connect your mind and body, regulate your breathing and feel control can totally set up or reset your day. It doesn't have to be an advanced Teaser or full 100 with straight legs - a few more basic moves practised with precision, control, centering, breath, coordination and smooth transition will help you feel much calmer. more connected and ready to get back into your day.

So perhaps if you are only choosing the more advanced classes because you don't want it to be too easy, have a rethink. Maybe checking into some slower classes with more adapted levels and lots of teaching points is just what you need to bring you back to the true meaning of Pilates.

If it is feeling rushed, pushed, forced or stressed it aint Pilates in its truest form and if you still find it easy or boring, maybe it's time to try a different teacher.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 42. Life is about balance

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 15:23:20 GMT

There is no time in life to start falling over....

Balance

In a week that has seen The Traitors take over, (Celia! Really!), Strictly get better and better and confused roses and geraniums continue to bloom, over here we have been talking balance.

What does balance mean to you? Do you immediately think about standing on one leg or does your mind wander to the 80/20 approach about treats versus healthy eating? Maybe you are thinking about downtime versus work and commitments, They are all relevant and very important so let's have a look.

We have done quite a bit of balance work in our classes over the last couple of weeks. Standing movement that helps us to better understand how we can connect to our centre and move more freely and with more confidence. One of the "expected" ageing issues is a decline in our balance but why on earth would we accept that? I feel SO passionately about this as with reduced balance, we tend to move with more caution, possibly start to avoid activities that we have enjoyed which may then impact on us socially which can affect our self confidence and so it goes on. Why on EARTH accept that?

With a few minutes a day, you can do a couple of simple challenges that will help your brain and muscular and skeletal systems communicate more efficiently, help with spacial awareness and improve your balance dramatically. I know of one person who told me he always stood on one leg to brush his teeth and then brushed his teeth with the "wrong" hand - I can't comment on the state of his teeth but his balance was terrific!

Everyday simple moves can help without the need to start planning time to "do your balance exercises" - try to walk up and down the stairs without holding the rail, try to get up and down from a chair without using your hands - when you go up the stairs, try to move really slowly and pause on each step with one foot raised - coming down is even more of a challenge BUT is hugely beneficial in building posterior strength and decreasing the risk of falls (most falls are on the way down, not up) - please try without your hands OR pausing on the steps before you combine both, and perhaps one to practise at home - if you do this in a public place you may well upset people queueing behind you !!

If you do find you have 5 mins while you are waiting for the potatoes to boil, then maybe stand on one leg or do the tightrope exercise (we have done a few versions of this - if you are not sure, I will post on instagram early next week or you can get in touch for how to do) but please, never accept a decline in your strength, balance and mobility as "just my age" - that, my dear friends is just an excuse!

n.b. Pilates is the perfect choice for improving balance and coordination.

If we eat rubbish, we get fat, lethargic and feel rubbish. This we know so to adapt an 80:20 rule to our diet is something we are all aware of, "A little of what you fancy does you good" is indeed true - a little, not every day! During lockdown my treats became my everyday and guess what? I got fat, felt awful and had to work incredibly hard to turn that ship around (well, more of an ocean liner, truth be told!) Never again....Finding balance in life with what we put on our plates and in our glass takes discipline but adhered to, will only enhance our feelings of health and wellness.

The balance of exercise and rest is something I have talked about in the last couple of blogs. Ideally we will mix up some Pilates with some weights and strength work with some outdoor activity with some stretching and mobilisation but THE BEST form of exercise is the one you enjoy! That is the one you are most likely to stick to.

The work life balance is not something I can currently comment on as I would be a total hypocrite! I am fully aware that my balance in this area is hugely tipped but again, will be addressed in due course and I don't need to spell out to anyone here how important this area is - you may be juggling work with raising a young family or perhaps you are dashing up and down the motorway to elderly parents. Perhaps your work is taking over your life and friends and family are being neglected.

So how is the balance in your life? What areas might you need to give some time and attention to? Last week I talked about our body being like a department store (John Lewis for me!) and how some areas worked too hard while others don't work enough - well take that analogy to your life. Perhaps some departments need to take some annual leave and others could do with a little weekend overtime to catch up.

I am a hypocrite and have actually started a planner on better time management so currently that department knows is is short staffed and working too hard but has set some simple objectives and is looking at it's short, medium and long term goals!!

Either which way - please DO NOT ACCEPT FAILING BALANCE. It is NEVER too late to start.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 41. SITTING KILLS

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:51:13 GMT

KEEEEEEEEP moving...

SITTING IS THE NEW SMOKING. SITTING KILLS. SITTING IS A DISEASE

I like to think of our bodies like a big department store, and in my case, John Lewis which is my mothership. If ever I was on Desert Island Discs, I would be asking Lauren if, for my luxury item, I could take a large branch of John Lewis with me. If I have had a difficult time, a wander around my mothership is guaranteed to soothe.

Think of our bodies. All the many systems - cardio (heart) vascular (circulation, arteries, veins) endocrine (hormones), digestive, muscular, skeletal, reproductive, nervous, lymphatic (immunity) urinary… and that is before we head to however you want to consider the emotional system, brain and all things related.

In my mind, the brain and mental systems are all on the top floor of the department store, behind glass and stainless steel doors, with thick pile carpet and soft lighting while the muscular system is way down in the basement with steam and non stop noise and machinery banging away!

In an ideal world, each department does what is required of it and alongside all the other departments, harmony exists. I am sure we all know that isn’t the case, both in our bodies or in the department store. As far as I am concerned, while soft furnishings are ticking over and meeting expectation (much like most systems working automatically) , head up to women’s hosiery and you will almost certainly meet an overachiever (she is always small and she is, in my mind the hamstrings! Or maybe some rotator cuff muscles ) who runs round like a whirling dervish trying to locate some charcoal Wolfords in a 100 denier despite you saying it really doesn't matter and she can stand down, while if you head to “The place to eat” anytime after 4.30pm, you are met with a stoney stare and sighs and there ( in my mind) are your glutes! Right there… there is work to be done but MY GOD they will do all they can to avoid it. They are the teenagers of the team - moody, avoidant and lazy while their colleagues in the surrounding departments go above and beyond to make up the shortfall while quietly seething and building up resentment.

That is how my weird mind works and it amuses me to think of all the departments having to support each other while realistically, several departments do as little as they can get away with, some work far harder than they need and some are almost ignored and totally taken for granted. That is why we end up imbalanced, compensating and carrying injury. We are hard wired to survive - no matter what departments are collapsing, burning to the ground or on a power cut with no return, our little department store will do everything it possibly can to stay open and keep business going to the very bitter end. We are phenomenally strong and no matter, we fight to the end.

We therefore have a responsibility to address those different departments. Maybe sometimes take time to appreciate what is working well despite any care or attention, while trying to balance out who does what and how hard. Even at Grey Gables (The Arches!!) they are job shadowing so that they can experience what each department has to do and help appreciate them- what a super idea!

I bet if you give it thought, you could think of some departments in your own body that work harder and some that you tend to take for granted.

So why am I sharing my weird imaginings with you? Well, this ties in a little with last week’s post about the most common questions around exercise.

WHAT SHOULD WE BE DOING?

MOVING . That is what you, me and everyone should be doing. While we spend fortunes on labour saving devices, we meet ourselves coming back round the other way with gym memberships (or online with me, of course!). and trying to fit in how to exercise.

2 generations ago, people walked, took the bus, scrubbed the floor, beat the carpets… ok, while we don’t necessarily need to return to some of those behaviours, screens, working from home, binging on box sets… it is all leading to sitting down and SITTING KILLS.

So if in doubt, JUST MOVE . Tennis, swimming, walking, golf, cycling, kicking a ball, walk instead of drive, walk to work, walk to the shops, … all are super, relevant and ideal ways to move.

Throw in lifting weights twice a week (and we are only talking 15 - 30 mins each time) which will keep those bones strong and build lean muscle. Pilates of course, for everything!
Mobilise and stretch which will give time to recover and keep those joints well oiled, those muscles stretched out and mental time out.

(and let's be fair, all this is more fun than scrubbing floors and beating rugs on the washing line)

Keep it simple to keep it going.

Just remember to think balance. Get those lazy team members to make more effort, give thanks to soft furnishings for always tidying, folding and never complaining , and for heaven’s sake let the lady in bras and hosiery have a sit down and a cuppa!

Weekly Wrap up, Week 40. What weights do I need? What are reps? A few questions answered

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 19:58:06 GMT

Weights, strength training and some explanations.

In a week that has seen Strictly start (wooHOOO), Dame Julie Andrews celebrate her 90th birthday (the voice behind my two favourite movies of all time) and piglets trotting about the forest, we wave goodbye to a sunny September and roll over into October.

I am delighted to see some returning members - welcome back! We are now zooming weekly into no less than 6 and sometimes 7 countries and I have to admit, I am a little bit proud about that!

I am delighted also to see such a positive response to my evening weights classes in addition to our regular twice weekly strength training. It just goes to show that we all know we ought to be but sometimes need a bit of a nudge to get going.

However… WHAT WEIGHT DO I LIFT? WHAT ARE REPS AND SETS? WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF WEIGHTS CLASSES are just some of the questions I am regularly asked so I hope I can explain and simplify for us all. (Please refer back to Weekly Wrap up week 34 where I wrote about how lifting weights and building strength WILL help us lose weight, far above and beyond cardio, should that be a goal).

HYPERTROPHY versus STRENGTH

Here’s the science bit.

“Strength training increases a muscle's maximum force-producing ability, while hypertrophy training increases the physical size of the muscle. Both are important in order to build a strong body capable of physical day to day activity and endurance.

Strength training uses heavier weights, fewer repetitions, and longer rest periods, whereas hypertrophy training uses moderate weights, more repetitions, and higher overall volume to cause muscle growth"

Myth buster - Ladies - unless you are eating 15 steaks for breakfast, pumping yourself with testosterone and spending 8 hours (yes, I do mean that) in the gym for months and months and months, you WILL NOT BULK UP. I can assure you that if it was that easy, body building would be a lot more popular. It is just not physiologically possible.

WHAT ARE SETS AND REPS?

Reps - a repetition of a move - one rep of a bicep curl is to lift the weight one time.

Sets - how many reps you do in that set before you rest.
For example, perform 10 repetitions in 1 set, have a rest and repeat a second set which gives you a total of 20 reps spread over 2 sets.

WHAT WEIGHT DO I LIFT?

I s the question I am most often asked so here is some information that I really hope helps. This is only a guide and of course you don’t have access to a huge range of weights but for starters, I hope this explains.

Start with a weight that feels easy: Begin with a weight that allows you to complete the desired number of repetitions with proper form. I typically give you a guide of how many reps we are planning so if less reps, heavier weight, more reps, lighter weight.

Gradually increase the weight : Add small increments of weight and complete the desired number of repetitions. Repeat this process until you

find a weight that challenges.

It's more important to focus on proper form and technique than to lift heavy weights . If you're struggling to maintain proper form, reduce the weight

We typically start with compound exercises like squats, deadlifts and shoulder presses to work multiple muscle groups at once as a great way to build overall strength and we then progress to more isolated work as we develop technique, confidence and skill.

Gradually increase the weight as you become stronger.

If you live near a Decathlon or John Lewis, go in and lift the weights - seriously! See how many reps you can do as a guide! Try before you buy - (but if you repeat regularly, you will have to go heavier soon anyway).

How do I know if I am improving?

Well for those of you who have messaged to tell me you have already bought heavier weights, that is a good indicator and BRILLIANT! For those of you who have told me that you have discovered that you actually enjoy the weights classes despite all reservations, I am THRILLED.

......HOWEVER....

Remember - range of movement is just as powerful a sign of progress.

If you are squatting deeper than you could 6 months ago

If your hips feel more mobile and your knees less stiff.

If you can lift your arms overhead without restriction.

If you can perform a movement correctly that used to tip you out of neutral or bother your lower back.

If you control the movement through a bigger range (larger distance) with correct technique and form.

If you can perform the move more slowly or even introduce a pause.

THIS IS PROGRESS!

Strong isn’t just about load. Strong is about moving better, more freely, with more confidence and less stiffness or pain.

So the next time you squat, think less about the weights in your hands and more about how your body feels and moves - those are the real wins and honestly? That is why we are doing this! For everyday life - for a longer, healthier life.

HALF AN HOUR . That is honestly all you need to do. 30 minutes twice or 3 times a week to see real results and to build a stronger body. Yes, you do have time. It is about priority. If currently, you don’t have time, that is absolutely fine and when you are in the right headspace to start, you’ll find the time and it will slowly become a habit.

I N NEXT WEEK'S POST

I will make suggestions about how you can increase the challenge while repeating the SAME exercises, using the SAME weights before you worry that you are going to have to spend a fortune.

Also what sort of weekly program you might want to consider as lifting weights becomes a more regular feature in your schedule so that you tick off the Pilates, stretch and mobilise and walking/running needs too.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 39

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:20:20 GMT

Running late but here at last!

I usually write and post on a Thursday evening but this last week has been somewhat wonky with my eldest visiting, wedding dress fittings (her), lots of walks and trying to prepare for the onslaught of a busy Autumn. I did have a nagging voice in the back of my mind but to be honest I just knew that those who read it every week would be the same ones who would say to me that one week won't hurt and time with my daughter is so much more important!!

We took this photo on a beautifully sunny walk this weekend, trying to capture the many colours of our lovely forest going over into Autumn and just this morning I saw a sow and huge litter of little piglets trotting down the road just outside Beaulieu as pannage season arrives and they are released to eat the acorns but really, to slow down the traffic as we all stop to admire them!

Weekly Wrap up, Week 38.

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 19:56:40 GMT

Charging cows, Flower farms and wedding Pilates

I was charged by a cow out on the forest this week. She was totally in the right and I was unwittingly, in the wrong. Her calf was laid down deep in the heather and I hadn’t seen it and as I wandered past with Bertie, she dropped her head and charged.

As Bertie is rather slow and unstable, she was heading at him and I had to jump up and down and scream and wave my arms which slowed her down, until dear Bertie wobbled out of the way. Quite a scare and made worse was a report in last week’s Lymington Times about someone who had been charged by a cow earlier in the year and had subsequently died of their injuries.

After all the crazy things I have got up to during my life, I would have been FURIOUS if that had been my time up.

We take a lot for granted don’t we? I have walked in the forest my whole life, and avoiding charging cows has never really featured but it will now.

What do you take for granted that perhaps needs a bit more appreciation and attention? Health and wellbeing is a typical example. I have often quoted the saying “Choose to make time for your wellness, otherwise you will be forced to make time for your illness” but it is SO true. How often do we put off doing something that is good for us because we are too busy? Something I have had to really work on but Wednesday was a very welcome break from the norm.

A large group of us took the ferry over to the IOW and spent a wonderful day with fellow online member and flower farmer extrordinaire Sarah (Clamerkind). We had great coffee, delicious home cooked lunch, painting, Pilates, walking, lots of flowers and home in time for tea. It was such a relaxing day and we all had such a great time, that we are hoping Sarah will let us come back in the Spring when the woods are full of bluebells. Thank you very much Sarah for a really lovely day.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 37.

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:18:27 GMT

Weights, IOW day, Ghosts, library changes and more

I mean however bad your week may have been, Amen that you are not the Prime Minister. Is it comedy or a horror show? Either way, we can stop watching Corrie for a while as we wonder at how mad it really can get. They have only been back 5 mins..... so many of us struggle with imposter syndrome... clearly no such concerns at No 10.

How many of you had that epic storm this week. I thought the sky was falling in on Monday night… at the first clap of thunder I knew it was only a matter of seconds before a traumatised little Gretl (my rescue Jack Russell, known for her random moments of irrational overreactions) launched herself onto the bed and wrapped herself like a scarf around my neck, both of us a bit hot and hyperventilating, while the windows rattled and the rain hammered down. Bertie could be heard snoring contentedly at the bottom of the stairs, totally unaware.

I remember one Bonfire night when Bert really did surpass himself. He was lying on his back snoring loudly as fireworks whizzed and banged not far from our front door. I crept into the kitchen and without even turning on the light, quietly opened the fridge door to get the milk for my tea and as I closed the door, there he was, sitting expectantly, tail wagging!

It is GREAT to be back. I miss you all when I am away from teaching but annoyingly, I am still a little under achieving. You will have noticed that I am up at the screen a lot more and doing a lot less, as I try to be responsible and rest while whatever it is, works it’s way out. SO boring but I am in very good company as I hear a lot of you have also been very unwell. Hopefully we are now building super immunity as the weather turns.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 36

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:22:47 GMT

Beginner's guide to lifting weights, September reset and being mugged by God in a hoodie

Well this weather is somewhat inclement. While my geraniums are struggling to hold up their jaunty heads, my hydrangeas are positively euphoric. Still on a hosepipe ban so I guess no topping up the paddling pool.

This week I have started listening to Ryan Turbridy again on Virgin radio. Having seen him interviewing at Carfest, it reminded me how much I enjoy his gentle Irish banter and dry humour.

I remember listening to his first show when he moved over to Virgin Radio and a story he told from a conversation he had with Sinead O’Connor shortly before she died. She told him that occasionally we all need to get mugged by God in a hoodie. Ryan said that this needed more explaining and then duly went on to share with us. Picture this - someone runs up from behind you and pushes you to the ground or punches you, and takes your phone or your bag and runs off and a few feet away, they stop and look back and take down their hood. They smile at you and you realise that it is God or someone really kind and lovely and they say “you needed that!” - a bit of a rock and roll blessing in disguise. Getting mugged by God in a hoodie. If you would prefer his explanation, you can find it on You Tube.

September is my January. I don’t know about you but when it comes to a reset, a few goals, plans and so on, January just doesn’t hack it. It is still dark, the post Christmas blues are hanging around as we have probably eaten too much and moved too little. The days are short, the credit card bills are dropping on the mat… who feels motivated to set new goals during this?!

September is a far more appropriate time. It is the start of the new school year and if it works for the education system, it works for me.

It is great to have a break from routine and structure but if you are anything like me, you are ready to get back to some normality and a bit of a timetable. I always crave a break from the timbale of life but I know for me, it doesn’t do to wander too far from the path and I am definitely looking forward to a busy and active Autumn and with the ongoing monsoon, plenty of time back indoors to tidy up, sort out and yes, to reset as boy o boy, do we have a busy Autumn here online…

LIBRARY NEWS. I will be recording some new content to add to our library and plan on some more basic Pilates and also some new Snack Bar classes. You have already been notified about the new collection for the upcoming strength classes.

I will be removing the “ Monthly Challenges” collection in due course (Sept is in the library). It is good to try these things and see what takes off and what gets less interest so that I know where to put my energy and time but as this has had little response, I will give my time to new plans.

BEGINNERS GUIDE TO LIFTING WEIGHTS.

You will have read my email about our upcoming new classes - this is open to everyone. Members - please find details in your library and please invite anyone you know who has been thinking about lifting weights - £19.99 for 4 classes plus recordings to keep.

Clare’s classes.
As some of you may know, our lovely Clare has got to go for some surgery so from the end of September you will have to put up with me on Wednesdays for a while, as we wish Clare a very swift and full recovery. There may be the occasional guest appearance too, so watch this space and as always, updates in your calendar. We will be very pleased to see Clare return but only once she has had the necessary recovery and not a moment before.

What next?

We have three more adventures to end our busy year. On 15th we are heading to the Isle of Wight (fully booked) and on October 28th I have booked our very own, private Ghost tour in Lymington (more of that in a couple of weeks) and of course, our favourite - our wonderful Christmas lunch which, this year is on the earlier date of Wednesday 26th November at Steffs Kitchen in Beaulieu at 12.30- again details to follow but please put the date in your diary.

I am already planning our October teatime talk but very much hope to see you next WEDNESDAY at 7pm for this month’s guest.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 35.

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 10:49:31 GMT

Carfest, My new BFF Rev Coles, Sir Chris Hoy and migraines.

I was delighted to be invited back this year to be a (very, very small) part of Carfest once again and arrived in my camper van shortly after lunchtime on Friday, as the festival was already in full swing. I had opted for the exhibitors’ camp site on the assumption that as it was for those working at and performing in, it might be quieter at night.

I was terribly pleased with myself to locate a really good spot, squeezed in amongst tents, motorhomes and every variation of, up front and close to the entrance gate. Clever me - right by the security hut and front of field near the gates, vastly reducing my commute. Hadn’t noticed the humming generators and how often the blooooeeep of the security radios sounded but no-one has everything.

I set up and set off, meeting a friend or 2 and finding the lie of the land. However by mid afternoon, a "lurking in the background" headache was reaching a crescendo and I staggered back to my van around 5pm in the full throes of what I assume was a migraine. I couldn’t even face getting changed, and just crawled, fully clothed under my duvet, hearing the occasional strains of Travis and The Boomtown Rats as the night progressed and I was only too aware of how much I was missing. Sadly not humming generators and lots of bloooooeeeeps.

I slept on and off and didn’t surface until midday the following day… by which time it was apparent that my clever parking choice was anything but.

By 7.45am on Saturday, the queues were starting to form for the entrance gate. Right in front of my van. 7.45am? The gates don’t open until 9. What is WRONG with people?

The excitable chatter and laughter of hundreds and hundreds of queuing people grew, no doubt with eager anticipation of things to do and places to be. Had I been firing on all cylinders, with things to do and places to be, I too would no doubt have been joining that ever growing queue with chatter of my own but as it was, I was holding my head in my hands, hidden under the duvet and wondering if it could get any worse.

Yes, it could….as The Rock choir joined somewhere along the line and decided to rehearse at full volume…over and over…and over… if I ever again hear “Sweet child of mine” in 4 part harmony I may kill those responsible. But then… Oh but then, a brass band. A BRASS BAND? WHO BOOOKED A BLOODY BRASS BAND? Did they rehearse and lead the waiting masses into song? YES, OF COURSE THEY DID.

I was sort of a bit in tears and a bit laughing hysterically at the madness of it as I was hiding, with a pillow pulled around my head, feet away from “When the Saints go marching in” in full Oompah Oompah splendour.

I was due to meet a friend and I tried to cancel to spare her, but she very kindly advised that she was on her way, bringing Migraleve, tea and sympathy and would look after me which she duly did and the day was somewhat salvaged. I was so grateful to see her as I wobbled over, I nearly cried and just sort of hung off her a bit, very grateful for the support.

He was followed by a speaker no migraine would have kept me from. I have always loved sporting autobiographies, fascinated by the behind the scenes life and what it really takes. This one however, was a bit different. Having of course, admired him for decades, I have only now had the chance to read more about Sir Chris Hoy in his recent book.

I remember out walking the dogs a year or so ago, early in the morning listening to him being interviewed by Chris Evans on his breakfast show and being blown away by his courage and how he was using his devastating diagnosis to help tens of thousands, if not more by raising awareness of Prostate cancer that sadly for him, was diagnosed only after it had spread and become incurable.

The crowd waiting for him was the biggest I have ever seen there - bigger even than for Tim Peake a couple of years ago and the roar from the audience as he walked on stage made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

I didn’t know what I expected, ( I had tissues at the ready) but what we got was humour, uplifting stories, Olympic tales and gossip, and a really positive experience. Several people stood up to share stories of either themselves or knowing someone who had been diagnosed early because of how much awareness he had brought to Prostate cancer checking and how easy it is to look up online.

All this was presented with a positive spin - with dignity, humility and care and I felt privileged to have been able to see him. It goes to show that it is not just staggering physical strength and amazing cardio vascular fitness that makes you a world class athlete. It is a an indestructible self belief and a mental courage that takes you past those not as emotionally capable.

One fascinating fact he shared - did you know that Sir Chris Hoy (6 Olympic Golds) shares his birthday with Sir Steve Redgrave (5 Olympic Golds), Sir Mo Farah (4 Olympic Golds) and Sir Jason Kenny (a whopping 7 Olympic Golds) so if you were born on March 23rd, you may well be destined for great things!

I think I was still riding high as we headed to what was possibly our last Teach on the Beach of 2025 on Bank Holiday Monday and what a wrap!

We had 18 mats on the beach, a fantastically busy online turnout, a NF pony that went full submersion and had a lovely and very long swim and the geese once again doing their interval training overhead, in preparation for their upcoming mammoth endurance event while the sun shone down.

Unfortunately, whatever my headache started as has progressed so apologies for lying low on the teaching front but I gather something unpleasant is doing the rounds and 3 of you have messaged to say you are laid out too - fingers crossed it passes swiftly.

I won't be down for long...

We hit the ground hard on MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8TH.

I have lots of plans for the Autumn. I am bringing a “Beginner’s guide to lifting weights” week of extra classes, recording new class content for the All level’s Pilates collection, more bite sized classes for the Snack bar not to mention our Isle of Wight day out and our exclusive Members’ New Forest Ghost tour (more details to follow).

DONT FORGET! Wednesday 10th September Teatime Talk. If you don't make this one, do you even really DO Pilates?!

Lastly and by no means least, I am always DELIGHTED to welcome new members . Having been to visit our fellow members in Kefalonia, London, the Isle of Wight, Bath, and the French Dordogne region, you can only begin to imagine my excitement as our latest member joins us from the Italian Alps….

(Pssst.. we need to sort Spain too?!)

More of all that next week but for now, I am signing off and wish you a happy last few days of the Summer - looking at the sky, we may finally be spared dragging buckets of water from kitchen tap to wilting flower beds.

Until next week,

Weekly wrap up. Week 34. 2025.

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 15:40:33 GMT

Happy 2 years alcohol free to me today! and how to lose that weight!

In a week that has seen GCSE results coming in, Rachel inflicting more doom and gloom on any money we may have left and Martin Gibson getting far too much air time (IYKYK ((if you know, you know)), I celebrate today, 2 years alcohol free.

I can still remember as clear as yesterday, the moment I looked at the glass of Rosé wine I was holding, and the decision I made there and then, pouring it out on the grass and not looking back. Not once.

We all live in a world where we can make our own decisions (although having seen Derren Brown live on Wed night, I am now a bit swayed towards how much we are subconsciously influenced) and this is my decision. It need not suit or interest you, but it suits me very well!

While my driving reasons were health related, the many, many benefits have been staggering and are constantly reaffirming to me, why this was one of the best life choices I have made. I read a great post once that said along the lines of "over the age of 45, you can have the night before or the morning after, but you can't have both"!

The 2 questions I am constantly asked are "is this forever" and "why don't you just have the occasional glass?" and my replies are that to the first, while I have never set any time frame, the current status suits me very well and has only enhanced my life in many ways and to the second - why? to what gain and for what purpose?

I still drink far too much coffee and love chocolate but embracing an AF life has seen so many benefits that I truly celebrate the start of Year 3... and the other question I am asked (with some hope usually) is that did I just give up booze to lose the weight I piled on over lockdown and the answer is sorry but no! The weight loss is all about damn hard work, lifting weights, riding my bike, making sensible food choices and long term dedication and commitment!! However, I am here to help...

How to lose weight safely and stay stronger for longer .

I am going to be running a "How to lift weights for beginners" plan or something along those lines in October... it is a work in progress but here is a little snippet of info for those who are perhaps looking at the results of a long, lazy summer...

I quote/paraphrase from Women's Health "Many women believe that cardio is superior for fat loss as it burns more calories minute per minute than most forms of movement and yes, a calorie deficit does contribute to weight loss.

However, intentional exercise (when you are out running or in the gym or whatever) only equates to around 15 - 30% of your total daily expenditure. So what about the other 70 - 85% of your time? This is where strength training comes in - resistance workouts are proven to build muscle and muscle burns calories while the body is at rest which aids weight loss" ( in addition to SOOOO many other benefits which I shall be referencing over the coming weeks).

So if maybe losing some weight, getting stronger, having more energy, sleeping better, having better balance and coordination, seeing improved cognitive performance, feeling more confident and being able to perform tasks more easily sounds like your thing, stick around - I have a strong Autumn planned.

N.B. I am and always will be totally devoted to Pilates and the many wonders of how it helps us. To this end, I continue to go on training courses (most recently a Reformer course in Athens) have recently bought another reformer for my own personal practice and self development, attend master trainer classes and continue to study, research and learn but I also totally embrace the need for lifting weights and as I am heading a lot closer to 60 and 50 is growing ever more distant in the rearview mirror, I am not slowing down and indeed want to learn more that I can then bring to you. I have been sporty and into fitness and exercise my entire life but I can honestly say I am stronger now than I have ever been, so if I can do it, I hope I can help you too (let's not mention my dodgy knee and the occasional memory lapse and regularly rambling about utter gibberish but you know! on the whole...)

I know those of you who are doing both Pilates and strength training can see how the two compliment each other. I see this more and more as I grow stronger with weights and feel more confident in some of the Pilates exercises that used to defeat me and I love bringing that to you.

(This is not to encourage you to ditch the cardio work by the way. Just to help understand what choices to make depending on what your goals are).

Back to Derren though... I am now looking for a blue t shirt, gold watch and Alton Towers connection.... mind totally blown!

Weekly wrap up. Week 33. 2025.

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 19:11:24 GMT

National Relaxation Day!

So just as I was harping on about Autumn and a chill in the air, the sun has returned, the hydrangeas are once more gasping and wilting and Summer reigns (as opposed to rains!)

Along with heatwave no. 4 (apparently), let's embrace NATIONAL RELAXATION DAY! Quite why we need an official day I have no idea but let's not miss out. I captured this foal today clearly practising for tomorrow. I thought she was a particularly pretty and unusual colour.

I think one day is a tad stingy so live on the edge! Push the boat out! Let's have Relaxation week, starting now.... What are you going to do to help you slow down, reflect, recharge and relax? I did mention the whole reflect and recharge last week but August really is the time for that before the onslaught of September which in my book is the new January for goal setting and all that.

I sat in the garden today and read my book. Not overwhelmingly out there and radical but very pleasant nonetheless. I was going to finish the ironing, put some bits and bobs in the loft and then do a weight training session but I didn't. I sat in the garden and read my book.

The bits and bobs will always need putting away. I rarely go anywhere that requires crease free clothing and goodness knows I can afford to skip a couple of days training, so I sat in the garden. I may even have dozed off at one point. It was heaven. ( I also have book club on Monday and have only read 3 chapters so some attention was required - The Avocado Hotel by Bob Mortimer - quite random and entertaining so far).

I had two of the classics this week. One of my favourites (please hear this said with tongue firmly in cheek) - "Do you know - I actually think all this Pilates is helping my back?!".....and another "the cover teacher was great. She told us all about this breathing into our ribs thing. It was really interesting - never done that before".....I think I have almost mastered the gracious smile over slow exhalation while backing away.... almost.... I guess it is all about how it is delivered and how we interpret it.

It is extraordinary and I have been keeping notes for 20 years about the things people say and do in classes... I am sure there is a book in there somewhere. Some of them are very, very funny and some of them are just possibly waiting to be funny when a bit more time has passed!

It has been wonderful to see some familiar faces back on screen: what with surgeries, serious illness and a medical scare or two, you have been much missed and are welcomed back with open arms. (Also big hugs to Jill who is nursing a recently broken ankle).

Our online family notices when a regular or two are absent - although one is absent due to sailing in Looe and has been sending back photos from watching "Beyond Paradise" being filmed for the Autumn series! Very exciting, as was the appearance of a dolphin in the Lymington river this week.

Weekly wrap up. Week 32. 2025.

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 09:44:16 GMT

Hello August

I would like to start with an apology to anyone who did yesterday's 8am weights class. Don't know about you but my legs are falling off ..... could hardly walk downstairs this morning!!

And so to August. While we are still in full summer holiday immersion, there is a change in the air, the nights are very slowly drawing in and there is a distinct chill when the sun drops. I am always a bit half and half about this. I remember from my childhood feeling sad when I saw the purple blanket of heather across the forest as this spelt the end of summer and a return to school but at the same time, the full on Summer madness cannot last forever - as someone who craves a break from routine and welcoming summer shenanigans, I am equally now ready to embrace the next season and the "what's next". I remember when I had a year backpacking with my children, how I missed the change of seasons and (dare I admit), being a bit bored with endless sunshine. While I still fancy living in the sun at some point, I am definitely English through and through - bring on season changes!

Apart from anything else, when the heatwave hits, normal jobs go out the (wide open) windows and in a short space of time, my house looks like I have. been burgled and the "to do" lists get piled up with the dust.

It is always a joy to break away from the norm and nothing helps enable this for us better than the long, hot summer days we were treated to but nothing lasts forever. I think of August a bit like a gentle transition preparing us for the shorter days and tackling all the jobs that were pushed to the corner when we were busy bbq'ing and summer partying! Maybe this is an opportunity to slow down a bit from full on Summer and take some time to reflect and recharge before we hit the Autumn onslaught.

With the NF show packed up, I am preparing for another stint at Carfest so do come and say hello if you are going, and join my class in the Spafest zone

We will have a reduced timetable for the end of Aug/start of Sept as I disappear somewhere for a recharge before hitting Autumn full throttle but more of that later.

Weekly wrap up. Week 31. 2025.

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 20:47:51 GMT

Goodbye July - you have been great!

Forgive me a very brief wrap up this week. Currently semi collapsed on the sofa and incapable of speech....

In a week that started with our fantastic Lionessess' epic win, I stepped away from my mat and into a week of show shenanigans.

I always wanted to marry a farmer. I am not sure where I went wrong but a week wrapped up in all things New Forest Show is a joy for me and for the thousands of people involved. There are nearly 500 of us voluntary stewards believe it or not, alongside all the professional teams and participants and that is what makes it the event that it is. I am terribly proud of my Pilates tribe winning in the sheep showing, the cake baking and working hard in various sections of the show.

We have a busy month of classes coming up and I really look forward to seeing you soon. I am back on my mat as usual from this morning.

Have a lovely weekend,

Weekly wrap up. Week 30. 2025.

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 21:35:05 GMT

The world is out there!

I was ready to write about going to see a Shakespeare production in Beaulieu and then KAPOW! The Lionesses worked their magic on Tuesday night and I cannot igore that. How to blend Shakespeare with women's football and why have I picked those topics? hmmm... here goes...

Sunday evening down at Bucklers Hard was a beautiful setting for an amateur production of "Much Ado about Nothing" We sat on the bank with picnics and fold up chairs and enjoyed a really superb play. Everyone was word perfect and it took me back to my school days, learning lines for our school plays. (ME on the stage! I know! Can you believe?!). There is a real knack to not only learning the lines but also when to come in, where to stand and so on. I recall an interview with Dame Judy Dench on losing her eyesight and how she needed to find a new way of learning her lines. Doesn't it go to show that with practise and repetition, we can achieve so much - in this case, hours of dialogue delivered perfectly.

In the Michael Mosley series I mentioned last week, one experiment was for ageing adults to learn 3 new things consecutively for improving cognitive function. It is so easy to write something off as too hard or too much effort, but if we actually want it, we can recondition and learn differently. So when you are trying a new exercise for example (or a new hobby or activity), stick at it.... it just needs repetition and practice, much the same as if you are learning your lines for treading the boards (or grass!). This will help keep our brains working and help with memory and cognitive funcion.

So to the Lionesses... I must admit that I am not that interested in football but this is different- this is women in sport and that is something I am passionate about. Not just that but look what these girls are doing for equality in sport and demanding respect for a job well done. So many young girls will be influenced by believing that anything is possible. So many boys will learn to take girls's sports seriously where perhaps historically it has been considered second rate. They show good sportsmanship, team camaraderie, friendship, hard work and a "never give up" attitude- they are a credit to us all and I so admire what they are achieving. Add to that a wonderful connection across the country, uniting people in a shared excitement.

So whether you are learning lines for a 3 hour play or training for a world class sporting challenge, the fact is that we can all achieve so much if we just stick at it and keep on going and give our precious grey matter a challenge to keep it working.

What is coming up.

Our September day out on the Isle of Wight is now fully booked! I have had a wonderful response and really look forward to our trip . I will be in touch nearer the time with those who have booked to make plans. (those who have provisionally booked are included.)

Teatime Talks. We are having a break in August nd I will post info on our September guest and I will record and post our August challenge in time for next week.

Crete - if you were interested in Michael and Malcolm's Pilates week next year and I haven't emailed the info to you, please let me know and I will forward.

Have a lovely weekend and if you are watching on Sunday, I will be right there with you!

Weekly wrap up. Week 29. 2025.

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 14:15:38 GMT

Centering

"Never trust a teacher who isn't committed to ongoing training".... was something I used to preach when I was tutoring. The world of health, fitness and exercise is ever evolving and as soon as we learn something new, we find a hundred more things we still need to know.

For me, it gets my grey matter working, gives me a reset and just shows me how much more I still need to learn. I come home with pages of notes, spend hours researching and studying and hope I can retain at least 50% and put it into practise.

Pilates is a unique form of exercise and while people may be frustrated if they don't "feel the burn" or find that it is not a weight loss option, this is to slightly miss the point. I love mixing it up and we often step away from Pilates in its purest form and then BANG! I go total technique nerd and we go back to "The Method" and, as we found this week, it is just something else! There is nothing else like it.

We have the Pilates Principles that are applied in our practise and today I want to talk about Centering . There are various ways to understand this but fundamentally, we want to move from a stable centre (or trunk) to stabilise and support the spine, maintain correct posture and permit movement. This can often mean that we move less and that our range is much smaller while we learn the ability to keep that centre connection.

We are familiar with the terms "neutral" and "imprint". While imprinting is a correct adaptation to engage additional abdominal muscles to support the spine, the progression or end goal is to be able to move from a neutral place. Scientific testing has shown beyond all debate that to go into "imprint" is to switch off the posterior chain of muscles so while we have the added support of the "global" or more superficial abs., we have lost the power of our deep, postural back muscles and we are therefor not fully embracing "being centred".

While I have always taught that we want to progress from imprint to neutral, it was during my recent training with Michael King that we did some movement tests and I really GOT this in a whole new way..and I cannot wait to share this with you. We have been working on a much slower, more neutral approach this week and I have had some wonderful feedback on how hard you have worked.

Joseph Pilates wanted us to move with more balance and efficiency and through his work we find what muscles aren't moving and learn how to to get them woken up and active.

I LOVE throwing in weights, using a band or making it pacy and burney - we like to have fun and add variety.... but then we press pause, take it back and practise The Method in it's purest form, no excuses and it is a humbling rain check on how hard it is, as we slow down and keep that centre connection - it is SO powerful. These skills help us lift our weights with better form and coordination, help us lift heavy bags or small children, spend all day in the garden or do whatever it is we love to do.

Remember -

We don't come to Pilates to get better at Pilates. We come to Pilates to get better at LIFE!

What is coming up.

What would you like?

I am writing up the live calendar so if there is anything you would like to see included, please get in touch but FYI - I am bringing in....

The Hundred - and all the ways we can do it.

The Mighty 5 - join me to find out more

Reformer on the mat - taking the studio equipment moves and doing them on our mat - some small equipment needed. Mixed ability and all levels.

Pilates and the Wall (of course you have one - you must have at least 4? - maybe take this class outside?)

Next Tuesday 9am, I am repeating this week's Functional strength class and recording as requested.

If , like me you are a Michael Mosley fan, you may be interested in a series filmed before his untimely death and now being shown on C4 called "Secrets of the Superagers". I really enjoyed "Secrets of The Blue Zones" on Netflix and very much look forward to seeing Michael's findings.

I hope you find a way to keep your garden from wilting as we head into a hosepipe ban and wish you a lovely weekend.

Weekly wrap up. Week 28. 2025.

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 20:47:24 GMT

Athens, training and here comes July!

Forgive me a very short post pending a much chattier one very soon as I have lots to tell you about my week.

Yes, it does indeed look like a toture chamber. To be fair, it sort of is....

I had a very busy 4 days and this is a short post and I will share more in the next week or two.

Athens, July with MK Pilates.

Left home at 4am, arrived back home at 4am. Amazing what you can pack into 4 days but here goes -

Loads of learning, feta cheese, new friends, baklava, Greek police (had to be there), olives, new contacts, inspiration, roof top virgin marys, Acropolis, shopping, mousakka, 40* heat, smallest balcony in the world, reformers, balls, sveltus bands, loads of laughing, Ubers, Greek salad, coffee, fascia, Cadillacs, gossip, more laughing, making connections, anatomy study, shorts, new ideas, new ventures, Quality street, pizza throwing, karate kicks, mamma Mia, skateboarding, breath, my dreadful shoulder alignment, strength v mobility, cinnamon buns, night markets, metro, new cues, new ideas, co contraction (who knew? ��), elephants in Tanzania v elephants in Athens, more laughing, brain overload, soldiers Pom poms, wooden penis keyrings (why tho?), worst cabin crew in the world (so bad it was hilarious), full immersion, stories from the original studio, learning from the best, reminding myself why 22 years down the line, I still LOVE what I do, passion, belief in what we teach, the method, practice, physios and osteos and movement specialists, friendly locals, did I mention laughing?, learning from 2nd generation, warm pitta and hummus, tzatziki, cats, graffiti, air bnb, being surrounded by energy and passion and knowledge and experience. Such a fantastic time ��❤️

I LOVE throwing in weights, mixing it up, slight deviation here and there but having time like this reinforces to me why I chose Pilates, why I totally trust in and believe in The Method. It works. My God, it works… I am probably the strongest I have been in years, having added weight lifting to my life but on the mat, on the reformer, no gimmicks, just pure Pilates under an expert watchful eye, I was trembling, shaking, complaining, whinging and trying to laugh my way out of the bits I couldn’t do…

The fact is Pilates works, like nothing else does, and the more I know, the more I need to learn. I know I’m in safe and trusted hands and keep pushing forward in my learning journey.

What is coming up.

WRINKLES? AGEING SKING? Read on....

I am really looking forward to our upcoming Teatime Talk. TUESDAY 15TH JULY. 7PM.

Dr Vix Manning will be telling us about her soon to be published book "The Inflammation Game" and how inflammation in the body can cause all sorts of nasties, not least AGEING OUR SKIN?!! Never mind aching joints - let's talk WRINKLES! So before you skip off for some botox, put this one your diary and remember to share the love and invite your friends and family. As always our talks are free of charge and open to everyone. Head to Teatime Talks on my website for all info and online members will find the link in the live calendar.

Finally... How are you getting on with your July challenge?

No live classes on Friday but a full timetable next week and LOADS of new facts, information, class ideas and more coming your way soon.

Have a great weekend.

Weekly wrap up. Week 27. 2025.

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 18:03:11 GMT

Tour de France, Wimbledon and do men do Pilates?

I have been enjoying the second season of Tour De France on Netflix, pending the upcoming Season 3 and the actual event next week.

I can't help feeling having recently completed my circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight on my gravel bike that I am quite expertly placed to study the form and technique of these professional, world class cyclists. All I can observe is that riding some 100 - 200km a day for 21 days incorporating almost vertical hills, reaching speeds of over 60 kmh, they don't appear to be remotely out of breath and none of them gets off on the steepest bit of the mountain climbs to push!. Most impressive. What training and conditioning and courage.

Actually a client of mine used to live in France and the Tour went past their front door. She told me about the amazing carnival atmosphere and hordes of people who came to set up camp at the roadside, with drinking, bbq's, flags waving, music playing and so on, and when there were cries of "THEY'RE COMING, THEY'RE COMING" and everyone would dash to the road to watch as .... whoosh - there they go and...well, there they went!

What is coming up.

WRINKLES? AGEING SKING? Read on....

I am really looking forward to our upcoming Teatime Talk. TUESDAY 15TH JULY. 7PM.

Finally... Enjoy the library and maybe keep to your usual class routine in my absence and select a class the night before so that you are ready to log on and take a class. Why not message a fellow online member so you can both do the class at the same time and feel the connection that way?

Have a great weekend, I will see you bright and breezy on Monday 14th.

Weekly wrap up. Week 26. 2025.

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:20:38 GMT

Why do YOU do Pilates?

I am asking! Why do YOU do Pilates?

In my humble opinion, Pilates attendees tend to fall into 1 of 3 categories. There are those who have heard about and researched what it can do and are totally invested in the results they know they will enjoy. There are those who have been advised from their physiotherapist or osteopath or similar to take some action to recover from or avoid an injury, Then there are those who do it maybe because they think they should or because it's in vogue or because they think it is a slow and gentle option.

The first group are of course, a joy to work with. As I am totally open to, you do not need to love Pilates in order to love what it does for you and how it improves and enhances all the activities that you do love.

The second group will sometimes be somewhat reluctant although these days pretty much everyone has heard of the benefits and many, many teachers have found their way to a new career in teaching this form of exercise from initially being prescribed Pilates to help with an issue or injury. This group (again, IMHO) quickly move into group 1.

The last group will hopefully benefit and learn to enjoy what Pilates can do for them and be converted! .

So which one are you? Do you come to Pilates in order TO DO PILATES or because the class fits around your schedule or because you know it helps you in so many other areas of your life or because your friends are doing it? Which one are you?

Exercise and movement is essential for a healthy body and provided you are moving, you are (let's hope) doing good. However many, many people who are doing Pilates are not doing Pilates! It never ceases to amaze me how many people expect to stretch and relax and are surprised and even complain when they have to work hard. An experienced teacher will be able to adapt and modify so that everyone can work at an appropriate level but lie down and stretch it is not and if you are hoping for that, perhaps you need to rethink what you book in to.

Results in any area take hard work, discipline, commitment and patience so in order to see the many gains that Pilates provides takes a regular attendance and commitment.

There are loads of exercise classes where you turn up, do your thing and leave. I have been to and still attend lots of exercise classes like this and love them.

However.... Pilates is more than that and I really do my best to convey that in my classes. That I want you to learn about your body, how it moves, where the weakness or imbalance is, where the focus is, how to breathe and so much more.

What is coming up.

Our Summer lunch is going to be parked up as so many of you are busy or away BUT I have a fabulous event for you to look forward to in the Autumn. A day of wellness and relaxation on the Isle of Wight. Watch this space.

Finally... there is a really serious heatwave forecast so please stay hydrated and in the shade! I will update on beach classes next week as always and update the live calendar accordingly.

Lastly... "The gap between what you love and how much time you spend doing it will be the size of your unhappiness."

Have a great weekend,

Weekly wrap up. Week 25. 2025

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:14:51 GMT

Our Summer Solstice

Sumer Solstice is the longest day of the year with the sun at its highest point in the sky .

Solstice Means "Sun-Standing"*: The word "solstice" comes from the Latin words "sol" (sun) and "sistere" (to stand).

I have been teaching classes at a pop up campsite deep in the local countryside near us, and last week I was thinking what a great venue it would be for a class to celebrate the solstice in such incredible weather. I have often about it and as we were forecast this sun and I now had a beautiful venue, it seemed the perfect opportunity.

The Summer Solstice marks the peak of the sun's power, symbolizing the connection between nature and spirituality. Also the solstice represents the renewal of life, as the sun's energy nourishes the earth and promotes growth so this seemed an appropriate time to focus on mind body connection and setting intentions and this is why I wanted to capture the opportunity of a beautiful field right next to the Solent, in the heat of the evening sun, surrounded by birdsong. We practised what I am going to bring in as our July challenge but more of that next week!

I looked up some facts on the solstice and this is what I found -

In Scandinavian countries , the Summer Solstice is celebrated with Midsummer festivals, featuring dancing, feasting, and flower crowns.
In Greece, the Summer Solstice is celebrated with the Feast of St. John, featuring bonfires, music, and traditional dances.
Many Native American tribes celebrate the Summer Solstice with Sun Dances, featuring traditional music, dance, and spiritual ceremonies.

While we missed the tribal dances, lighting of bonfires (absolutely NOT in a very dry New Forest) and ceremonies, we did practise breath exercises, London appears to have it's own version this weekend with a naked bike ride this weekend. I think possibly meditating in a field near Lymington worked best for us! We enjoyed some relaxation techniques and we set some intentions. It was a magical evening and thank you everyone who joined me. during

I suppose from Sunday, the nights start drawing in and we can start talking about Christmas..... JOKE!!!

Well done to our very own Lisa for conquering the 3 Peaks last weekend and raising thousands of pounds for Dementia research. While we had sun down here, they were battered with wind and rain but returned as conquering heroines so well done to you!

And finally....

As we head into summer and routines change, please keep an eye on the calendar - I will always email online members of any changes and will endeavour to put in a couple of Saturday catch up's where I can. However, don't forget you have access 24/7 to a huge library of classes of all levels so you can always jump in there and select a class to keep your routine.

I plan time in the garden with my book this weekend and watching "The Gold" which I am hooked on. I hope you have a lovely weekend - there is always a naked bike ride if you find yourself at a loose end.....

Weekly wrap up. Week 24. 2025

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 14:29:02 GMT

The unlikely comparison between Battersea Power Station and Pilates!

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 of you 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 and familiar faces 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.

15 of us had a superb day out on Wednesday. The sun was shining, the trains ran on time and we all behaved ourselves on the whole.

Catherine very kindly came up with the idea of visiting Battersea Power station and I think it is fair to say we were all really impressed with our private tour and all that we learned.

How can I tie this into Pilates tho? Read on....

The Unlikely Comparison: Battersea Power Station and Pilates

*

At first glance, Battersea Power Station and Pilates may seem like an unlikely pair. One is a iconic London landmark, while the other is a popular exercise method. However, let's explore some surprising similarities:

Core Strength
Battersea Power Station : The power station's core structure has withstood the test of time, remaining a sturdy and iconic presence on the London skyline
Pilates: Core strength is a fundamental principle of Pilates, focusing on building a strong, stable center to support the entire body

Flow and Movement
Battersea Power Station: The power station's design incorporates a sense of flow and movement, with its sleek, Art Deco lines and imposing chimneys
Pilates : Pilates exercises emphasise smooth, flowing movements, engaging the body's natural flow and promoting efficient movement patterns

Control and Precision
Battersea Power Station. The power station's operations required precise control and monitoring to generate electricity efficiently.
Pilates . Pilates exercises demand control and precision, engaging the mind-body connection to execute movements with accuracy and intention.

Renewal and Transformation
Battersea Power Station: The power station has undergone significant transformations, from its industrial past to its current redevelopment as a residential and commercial hub.
Pilates : Pilates is a transformative practice, helping individuals develop greater body awareness, strength, and flexibility, helping them renew their connection with their physical selves.

While Battersea Power Station and Pilates may seem like vastly different entities, they share common themes and principles. Both emphasise core strength, flow, control, and transformation, reflecting the interconnectedness of structure, movement, and personal growth. So there you go!!

COMING UP.

The sun is coming!! Next week promises to be hot, hot, hot so that can only mean one thing.... TEACH ON THE BEACH!

I intend to run all our online classes from the beach so if you are local and can manage it, please come and join me. I hope those not too local and joining online will indulge me as we prepare for visiting rogue dogs, aggressive seagulls and whatever else presents itself.

I have really enjoyed having a break from recording and being more interactive. However I have a couple of requests and as soon as the weather changes and I am back in my home studio, I will be recording new content.

Please send positive vibes and good luck wishes to our very own Lisa who is spending the weekend climbing mountains in The 3 Peaks challenge. Lisa is raising money for Dementia awareness. For more info and to support her please visit https://www.justgiving.com/page/charlotte-dawson?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL&utm_campaign=015&fbclid=IwY2xjawKivudleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBmRm5RV3VzTm1ITTl2b3VZAR4dJ0yS6iD7LTJbU_ZKLnF23xvKsKkOjj_PjiUrTRwHQB38fx86WB65QPQ6dw_aem_nXFNmp5OlZxYDy_KpQqglw

And finally....

I really recommend the book "The Humans" by Matt Haigh. Maybe not for everyone but I thought it was breathtakingly good.... I could not put it down and want to go back and read it again. It is very funny, very thought provoking - if you read it, do let me know what you think.

I have pinched a few lines from the main, non human character that I share here.

"Don't worry about your abilities. You have the ability to love. That is enough.

Be nice to other people. At the universal level, they are you.

Tragedy is just comedy that hasn't come to fruition. One day we will laugh at this.

Don't aim for perfection. Evolution.... and life only happened through mistakes.

You (humans) are not the most intelligent creatures on the planet. The tonal language in the song of a humpback whale displays more complexity than the entire works of Shakespeare.

Don't be afraid to tell someone you love them. There are things wrong with your world but an excess of love is not one of them.

You are not the only species on earth with technology. Look at ants. Really look. What they do with twigs and leaves is really quite amazing.

Have a great weekend.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 23. 2025. Reformer training.

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 20:57:10 GMT

What is happening to Pilates? Is it in danger of getting lost in the rush?

You have almost certainly seen photos of the Pilates reformer and many of you may have used one - several of you with me, before I moved house and ran out of space! The original design was very widely believed to have derived from when Joe Pilates was interned during WW1 using a basic bed with springs to devise his system of self defence and rehabilitation exercises for fellow German nationals, helping them with physical fitness and to alleviate problems such as rheumatism and other join problems.

However they are expensive and large and mat classes have long since made practical and economic sense, bringing Pilates to a wide population being more affordable and accessible.

The last few years has seen an explosion in Reformer studios opening up on every street corner. However, to support this surge in popularity, some short cut qualifications have also popped up. There are now many reformer teachers out there who have not come from a Pilates background and have no mat experience, learning only to teach on the studio equipment.

Is there room for all options? Perhaps you are happy to practise exercise on the reformer/tower/jump board without it being Pilates and why not if that works for you. However, if it doesnt come from a Pilates source and is an add on to a personal training qualification perhaps or gym certificate, can it be called Pilates? If it is merely a form of exercise on a machine without embracing the fundamentals and principles, why call it Pilates which can be very misleading.

Worryingly, there is a real risk of the original method being diluted and the magic of what it can do and all that it represents will be lost in a sea of expensive leggings and battery farm style classes.

So let's assume you are going to a reformer class in order to do Pilates. Why would you want your teacher to be mat qualified in addition to reformer?

Here is the official take on the research I have been doing, gathered from various sources -

1. *Foundational knowledge*: Mat training provides a solid understanding of Pilates principles, exercises, and modifications. This foundation is crucial for teaching Reformer classes.

2. *Exercise progression*: Mat exercises often progress to Reformer exercises. Understanding the mat work helps teachers modify and progress exercises effectively on the Reformer.

3. *Injury prevention*: Mat training emphasizes proper alignment, breathing, and movement. This knowledge is vital for preventing injuries on the Reformer, where equipment can amplify poor form.

4. *Teaching versatility*: Mat qualification allows teachers to instruct clients who prefer or require mat work, making them more versatile and valuable instructors.

Teatime Talks. A huge thank you to Katie who gave just THE MOST inspirational talk on Tuesday. We all hung on her every word and so many of you messaged me to say how motivated and positive you felt. It was a real treat and again, we are so lucky to have access to such knowledge and experience from the comfort of our sofa. Thank you Katie - your story was incredible and we all really appreciated our hour with you.

Members. I am really looking forward to our day to Battersea next week and you will have received an email about our Summer lunch so pop that in your diary.

Last night Anne and I had a superb evening at The Harbour Lights, watching The Salt path and I have just got home from seeing Fiddler on the roof with Jan at the Barbican, It was BREATHTAKINGLY good - a full house standing ovation. I can heartily recommend both and can only hope you get the same wonderful company that I have enjoyed. Look at me! Out in the evenings again!! Whatever next?

And finally -

Some lovely quotes from Katie's talk - "where the mind goes, the body will follow".

When you go to bed at night, reflect - "What did I enjoy today? What made me feel proud? what gave me confidence? What could I have done differently?"

There will always be someone who can't see your worth. Don't let it be you! - Mel Robbins.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 22. 2025

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 09:40:18 GMT

A busman's holiday

….”Sorry… you’re going on holiday….to a Pilates retreat.. ?” …. was the first what’s app I opened when I landed in Heraklion, Crete and it made me laugh. It was not the only message of this theme and I can fully understand the thinking behind it.

(Apparantly a Busman's holiday is so called because when the driver took time off, he was obliged to drive his family etc. to their destination hence he was holidaying doing what he did for a living)

To be fair, I wouldn’t have called it a holiday. It was sunny, in a glorious hotel with good food and lots of lying by the pool but (those who chose to) met to walk every morning at 7am and I very quickly settled into the routine of returning for breakfast, a little faffing about before 2 hours of Pilates, then a 4 hour break and another 2 hours of Pilates before drinks, dinner and shenanigans. Did I mention the daily 100 squats and 50 push up’s challenge (which I have continued.. of course I have!!).

We of course could have missed classes here or there but for me, I didn't want to miss a single second of the knowledge and experience available to me.

I arrived to be met from my taxi by a handsome valet. As he took my suitcase he said “and now time to relax”…and I followed him to reception where I attempted to take back my bag - “no, you now RELAX” he said… “yes but I just need,,,”…”no you RELAX”…. Ok then. I proceeded to enjoy my complimentary refreshments of fruit juice and fresh fruit in as relaxed a manner as I could, not daring to touch my suitcase, conscious he was watching and I wanted to demonstrate that I had taken his care on board.

The hotel is only 3 years old (more of that later) and everything is new and fabulous. In the room, we had an electronic pad on the wall that controls everything from the many lighting options as well as the the fan, AC, room service and a do not disturb option. It was like a scene from Ab Fab- the panel was about chest height so there was I on many occasion, in a sort of squat, squinting blindly as I pressed all these buttons, then admitting defeat before going off in search of my reading glasses and having another go - suffice to say that I was so confused with the lighting that anyone walking on the beach that first night would have thought I was hosting a disco and with my utter brilliance I managed to enable the do not disturb and came back to find my room exactly as I had left it.

Midweek, the hotel invited us to join their 3rd birthday party celebrations with balloons, nibbles and a really super band. We had all been out and let’s just say that on our return, the party livened up a bit… we danced our little legs off and the band loved it! I am sure the other guests were terribly impressed as they stayed in their seats sipping their gin and tonics.

So to the Pilates… well I guess I stand by what I say when I always reiterate that it is a vocation.

You know I always preach “never trust a teacher who doesn’t do their own practise”… and I stand by that. I hope I keep an open mind in most areas but this is something that I feel strongly about.

I enjoy joining friend’s classes and we have have been lucky enough to have some guest teachers online and I will visit the occasional studio when I am away to see what it what but this is something different! Who wouldn’t want a week with the absolute Masters!

Michael has an incredible pedigree, from having worked with Romana Kryzanowska (Joseph Pilates’protege) as well as Alan Herdman (responsible for bringing Pilates to the UK in the 70’s) and it goes from there, all over the world with so many collaborations, associations, name drops and stories that I nicknamed him Ness from Gavin and Stacey (she of the “oh! When I was on tour with the Rolling Stones/spent the weekend at Chequers/was living with Richard and Judy)…. I would honestly say that with regard to Pilates, if Michael doesnt know it, it probably isn’t there to be known. Add to that his husband Malcolm who is so methodical, technical and with an impeccable attention to detail who brought his former corporate skills to the party to enable them to write the original training manuals that I would be so bold as to say, probably any Pilates teacher reading this has trained with, regardless of what the name on the front says!! Their work has been rolled out worldwide and they have set up countless training schools.

What I particularly love about M&M is their humility. I have been on A LOT of conventions and so forth and have encountered many very superior presenters who consider themselves a little too important to perhaps mix with their followers. Michael and Malcolm on the other hand have recently returned to live in Malcolm’s native Scotland and have set up some classes in their local village hall. From teaching and setting up training for multiple organisations all over the world, being at the top of their industry for donkey’s years, they are nonetheless happy to teach their local community in a dusty hall and it really amuses me to wonder if the local village have any idea just how unbelievably lucky they are! Apparently one attendee did (quite rightly) ask Michael if he was qualified or "had a certificate to teach".. I believe she then googled him and was mortified!

I just loved taking off my teacher’s hat and being taught - having my posture analysed, looking at different ways to cue or approach and just to fully immerse. Michael and Malcolm teach very differently and it was a joy to experience a whole week of pure Pilates (oh! And some dance thanks to Michael’s background).

We discussed the £150 Aldi reformer (general decision was it is probably well made and ok for home use but unlikely to stand up to commercial use), the snobbery around “Classical” and does that actually really exist?, what is clinical Pilates, and seriously? a 2 day course does not a Pilates teacher make. Is only being reformer trained and having no mat experience or mat qualification acceptable? and lots more that should probably stay on tour.

We were there for “The Method”.

There is a saying that 50% of people doing Pilates are not doing Pilates and we enjoyed 20 classes embracing the fundamentals and principles.

Of course, I wouldn't be me if I wasn’t looking at new ideas, opportunities and how to move forwards and will be starting with refreshing my studio equipment training. Quite where I can fit a reformer at present is not clear but I am nothing if not resourceful.

Also it is so inspiring to be among other teachers and I have made new friendships with amazing fellow teachers this week that I know will endure. (Can't wait for that road trip up north!).

One fellow teacher is a man called Jonathan who lives on the Isle of Man and his great grandfather was held in the same camp where Joseph Pilates was famously held as a German national during WW1. Now that is pedigree… and if you are on Facebook look up Jonathan’s page “Joseph’s Legacy - Pilates 100 +” - an incredible resource of research, probably the most extensive in the world hence the 21k followers.

Coming up.....

Don't forget our Teatime Talk this coming Tuesday at 7pm.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 21. 2025. What does "being healthy" mean to you?

Mon, 19 May 2025 14:34:37 GMT

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!

By the time you read this, I will be heading into my first morning in Crete with the superstar master trainers Michael and Malcolm for a week of Pilates, teacher work and sunshine. I have packed 2 books (Matt Haig and another Kristin Harris) so my intentions have been set! My room has a rather fabulous balcony plus beach plus pool so forgive me if I accidentally wander off sometimes and find myself horizontal in the sun!

Have a lovely Bank Holiday and I really look forward to seeing you all next week.

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 20. 2025.

Thu, 15 May 2025 16:21:48 GMT

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.

I am with you Monday and Tuesday next week and will then be away, back to teach Monday 2nd June......., JUNE?!!??? How has that happened?

And finally -

Women of yesteryear were told to eat less, stick to cardio and stay small. How wonderful to now live in a time where women's strength and strong bodies are celebrated!

How interesting that people can be terrified of bluetooth, smart speakers, gluten, dairy, carbs, artificial sweeteners, protein powder......yet are these same people quite willing to live with regular alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, takeaway meals, lack of muscle mass or aerobic fitness? Choose your fears wisely.

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 19. 2025.

Thu, 08 May 2025 12:36:17 GMT

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....

What's coming up.

We will definitely be beach bound for more classes as the weather is looking goooooood..... I will always update in stories in my instagram feed and also in the what's app group. DM for more info.

NEW IN LIBRARY

Tuesday 8am class - hips and glutes focus (Mixed ability collection)

Tuesday 9am full body strength work (Strength collection.)

And finally -

"Your muscle mass and bone strength says much more about how you are ageing and how you are taking care of yourself than the lines around your eyes ever will".

Laziness kills ambition

Anger kills wisdom

Fear kills dreams

Ego kills growth

Jealousy kills peace

Doubt kills confidence.

Now read that right to left!

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 18. 2025.

Thu, 01 May 2025 20:53:32 GMT

USE IT OR LOSE IT!

I saw a post on instagram that I shared today. It is a video of a large family posing for a group photo, with many of them sat on the floor. Once the photo has been taken, they try to get up and that is where chaos happens (along with a lot of laughter) as they are clinging onto eachother, trying to get to their feet and getting into a total heap.

Very funny... but also not...

I was involved in a workshop today at Limewood and the phrase "Use it or Lose it" came up in the presentation. We all know the saying and can use it quite flippantly but how about acknowledging that if we no longer perform that particular activity, our body thinks it is no longer required and we find we CAN'T perform that movement. We need to condition our body and therefor when we first try a new exercise for example, we can feel quite unstable or uncoordinated and lacking in proprioception but as we repeat and practise, the move becomes more familiar and we grow in confidence and ability. Think of some of the sequences we do in Pilates or some of the more complex moves in our weights work - not for the faint of heart and performed only once we have built up the skills and have the coordination and understanding of what needs to go where. However as we stop doing those (or any other)moves they quickly become harder to reach.

If you haven't seen it, do please watch "Secrets of The Blue Zones" on Netflix - about communities where people not only live beyond 100 but do so with good physical and mental health. It is a superb watch but the factors are the same in each community and one of them is of course, exercise, be it walking up a practically vertical hill to church or getting onto hands and knees to tend the garden daily.

Whatever you do or don't do, please don't be the one rolling around because you cant get up from the floor!!

Using it beyond all reason this weekend however are Lou and Clare - please join me in wishing them the very best of luck as they set off together at 6.45am on Saturday to run 100km around the Isle of Wight. If you recall, they did 50km last year and that achievement set them up for going the full distance this year. It also did something else as I went over to watch them and had a bad case of missing out, as I can no longer run and realised how much I missed the training and camaraderie of an endurance event and it was off the back of this experience that I came home and bought a new bike. So a year (and lots of cycling and joining a club) later, I am also off to the island on Sunday to cycle 100km on the IOW Randonnee. I respect that my challenge is nowhere near the scale of what Lou and Clare are undertaking but there are some big old hills over there... good job we have a Bank Holiday Monday to recover!!

What's coming up.

We have no live classes on Bank Holiday Monday where I hope you will be celebrating the V.E. Day anniversary.

Let's hope this weather continues and we can get back to the beach. As we settle into summer, I also plan to have some teatime classes both online and on the beach so watch this space.

NEW IN LIBRARY

Short, high intensity, super setting strength workout - 1. upper body 2. Lower body. Both in Snack bar (or will be by this evening)

Short ish stretch and mobility - ideal for a top up if you need more of a stretch or just want a bit of simple stretch and move - lower body, upper body, neck and shoulders, hips and full body = all will be loaded in Snack bar

And finally...

"When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change..

When you are feeling stuck, you might not be able to change what is around you so change how you view it. Change how you look at it and allow it to change in your favour". Jay Shetty.

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 17. 2025.

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:51:54 GMT

Blink and you miss it. There went Easter. I hope you all had a lovely time doing whatever you got up to and we now enter the summer term. I mean we don't really have terms but if we did, this is it... exams, summer uniform, netball and cricket and dusting off the bbq's.

Personally, none of that really applies to me... well perhaps the summer uniform as I drag my shorts blinking and yawning from the back of the drawer. As for netball - I used to absolutely love it. I was always in the school team, playing Centre or Goal defence and did briefly join Lymington as an adult. When my girls were at prep. school, they reinstated a teachers v parents netball match and we won by a country mile -none of us really knew how but me being me, I went full out to start a mum's netball club one evening a week. Before we knew it, "friends" had mentioned us to the Bournemouth and Southampton leagues. This was very, very scary as we were just running up and down shouting "is that allowed? what are we supposed to do here? did that count?" so clearly in our infancy and anyway, we didn't have any matching kit but we did have a lot of fun - well, until someone went over on her ankle which promptly broke and that was the end of that.

I have been spared life as a cricket mum or widow but sitting in a deckchair for hours in the sunshine pretending to watch sounds wonderful to me.

As I watch my nephews revving up for the start of GCSE's, I thank my lucky stars those hideous days are behind me. I have a vivid memory of sitting at the kitchen table trying to revise while my mother sat outside in the garden listening to Wimbledon on the radio and the two are forever linked for me. Wimbledon with exams not my mother.

Apparantly we have wonderful weather next week so dig out your sunscreen and if you can make it, I will be teaching on the beach for Monday and Tuesday's classes.

We went through the 34 Moves recently and the upside down/inversion moves are usually the ones that need the most practise. You can really get a deep dive into these moves on the studio equipment if you ever go to a studio but we have several in our mat work - Roll over, Rolling moves, High bridge, Control balance, High Scissors and Bicycle. Remember that Joseph Pilates' philosophy was to perfect on the studio equipment and practise on the mat, hence we use all sorts of equipment and creativity to recreate as close to the studio work as we can for the vast majority of us who do not have access to a fully equipped studio.

Why inversion? Gravity can lead to compression of the spine and their little shock absorbers known as discs that can become dehydrated. When we tip our body upside down, we can reverse the gravitational pull. This can help to create more space between the verterbrae and studies suggest that this allows for the discs' soft tissue to absorb moisture and rehydrate and plump up.

Exercises like Roll over or the rolling moves can provide a massage for the spine and fascia as well as improving spinal mobility and of course, abdominal strength.

(please note in photo above, my right arm is not perfect - my wrist should be flat and my arms could be stronger and better connected to the floor but it was the best pic I could find for now and I wasn't sharing that space with anyone else so it was a mediocre me or nothing!!!)

Want more? Well, it is widely believed that being upside down can stimulate the lymphatic system and help with lymph drainage. Also the action of being upside down can increase blood flow to the stomach and therefor help with digestion and digestive issues.

You don't need to be performing an advanced Control Balance move - some of the rolling moves and spinal extension we have been working on do the job in a modified way and anyhow, high blood pressure, glaucoma and spinal issues are some of the reasons why full, advanced inversion is not ideal - there are always ways to adapt, modify and practise safely.

What we established in our 8am class yesterday was how many ways we can break down, build up and practise. For example, consider the Roll up, Roll down and Roll over as exactly the same exercise but variations come from the position you start from, how you work against gravity and whether it is your upper or lower body that moves.

Thinking about Roll over, and going into the inverted positions (where your hands support you from under your hips), we worked on how to open up the chest, the need for strength through the traps, lats and triceps, length in the hamstrings, strength in the core and so much more.

So for example, to improve High Scissors, you could consider side lying chest opener, Roll down with arms behind you, Saw and upper body only double leg kick - all moves to open up the chest and strengthen the upper body. In addition, hamstring and hip flexor stretches. Focus on pelvic floor and deep core connection so lots of abdominal and core strengthening- we could (and do) a whole class on moves to prepare us for one single and seemingly evasive exercise.

What we do know is that to get better, we need to practise - a few daily exercises relevant to what you need to build on will make ALL the difference so.... with that in mind, I am going to start planning some workshop style classes again as we haven't done this for a while so your input would be welcomed. What moves really challenge you and what would you like to work on? I will get my creative hat on and build a class around the strength, stretch and mobility we need to focus on.

What I continue to hear from you (and feel for myself) is the benefit of building strength from lifting weights and how that really helps with your Pilates progess. Isn't it great!!

What's coming up.

Please note that there are no live classes on Thursday May 1st as I am taking part in a one day event at Limewood and we also have no live classes on Bank Holiday Monday where I hope you will be celebrating the V.E. Day anniversary.

In the library this week

Thursday's 9am - the second part of the 34 moves - I really do encourage everyone regardless of ability to look at the adaptations in these 2 classes (All levels.)

Friday's 8am Strength - Advanced weights work .(Strength) - advanced because we have a lot of balance and complex moves. Have a look and apologies for my appalling single leg deadlift demo - definitely a case of do as I say, not as I do!

I had a blissful few days off over Easter and read 2 books - The Women by Kristin Harris is just fantastic. It really knocked me sideways and I fully recommend. She writes about women in conflict and this is about a combat nurse in Vietnam so not an easy subject but so well written. I bought it for a friend for her birthday and by chance, we were both sofa surfing on a very rainy Good Friday in our respective homes with a pot of tea, a dog snoozing by our side and reading the same book, what's apping occasionally to see where we were both up to. We had arranged to go out for a drink but we both agreed to cancel because... well it was raining and the sofa looked so inviting!!

A whole afternoon reading, with no other distractions has to be one of life's greatest pleasures.

Our last bookclub book was The Life Impossible by Matt Haig which I also really enjoyed - if you like audio, it is read beautifully by Joanna Lumley which only adds value.

Having loved The Women so much, I have leaped into The Nightingale by the same author. All I can say is- "You're welcome".

I also went to see The Penguin Tales with Steve Coogan and I thought it was a really sweet movie albeit built around the military junta of 1970's Argentina - if you have a spare couple of hours, I think it is better than the reviews it got! I really enjoyed it.

Feel free to to share your recommendations and I will pass on here - we often get chatting in class and then you are messaging me asking what was the book/film/box set and I have forgotten whatever it was and I think sharing a really good book is a true gift.

And finally...

"The feeling of progress is one of the best feelings of all. This is true even when progress is small". James Clear.

A question for you - What hard lesson keeps repeating itself in your life because you refuse to learn from it?

It is a Buddhist belief that we are sent the same lesson until we learn from it... what is yours?

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 16. 2025.

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:05:39 GMT

Make it a lifestyle, not a duty.

In a week where we are informed that legally a woman born a woman will be referred to as a woman, Rochelle is clearly up to no good (I knew it, I just knew it!! - The Archers. I'm a super fan) and a 400 year old tree is controversially felled in my old home town of Enfield, (referred to as the Guy Fawkes tree as it stood in front of the house where the Gunpowder piot was hatched), we were treated to a fascinating talk on all things stress, blood sugar, cortisol, protein and more.

I was delighted and not at all surprised to see such a great turnout to join Yvonne and me online on Tuesday evening. She detailed clearly how stress directly impacts our gut health and our ability to digest and I think we all learned so much. Who knew that a couple of small bits of chocolate before our healthy meal can stop the post dinner sugar cravings in their tracks or that humming will massage the pituitary gland? That not all protein is good protein and that all that cortisol can directly stop the absorption and digestion of nutrients, however healthy our food choices are?

What I particularly liked was the way Yvonne delivered this. While everyone was champing at the bit to find out what to eat and how much and when, she kept that right to the end by first educating us on the need for some lifetyle changes; She gave us a few suggestions and asked us to choose a couple that would help reduce stress, induce a happier gut BEFORE we hit the what to eat debate. When I taught on retreat, we used to talk about the Pillars of life which Yvonne very much supported here in her advice on what life changes to make to give us the best possible place to start from.

Sleep, SMART exercise (high impact plus weights plus stretch, plus gentle walking etc ), breathing work, reduced evening screen time, drinking more water…. While no-one is asked to change everything, there were several suggestions of what we might choose to help us take another step in the right direction and this was something I really appreciated. I am delighted that we are clearly singing from the same hymn sheet as I talk endlessly about the need for long term life change rather than short, quick (unsustainable) fixes. After all, what is the point in carefully measuring out your grains, your proteins, your supplements if you are still stressed, rushing around and not sleeping properly as all the amazing nutrients in the world will not get into the system until you give a happy, healthy system to receive them.

Of course, we tick lots of boxes - I offer as much variety in our classes as I can to include strength, resistance, stretch, mobility and relaxation as well as breathing work so I was really chuffed that this was included and of course I am talking endlessly about lifestyle changes - we do not and should not turn our entire lives around in one go but small changes that we can adhere to will help us forward to a healthier and therefor happier version of ourselves.

I love the quote from Victor Frankl in “Man’s search for Meaning - “when we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves” …..that situation could be anything of course but to keep it current, could refer to our weight, health, fitness, sleep patterns….

Choose one small thing and see how you get on…. Maybe adding one extra walk a week or going to bed earlier a couple of times a week. It doesn’t need to make the front page like what sex you are legally recognised as but it’s a start.

Yvonne spoke with such a passion on a subject she knows so well and I love working with anyone with that passion - as we know I can bang on all day about my industry but it is because we are so passionate that we love sharing it!

Please DEAR GOD, the day I drone on and just go into auto repeat, have me carted off, mat and all.

New in the library this week.

The 34 moves - not my best class I am afraid but it’s a case of do as I say, not as I do. I watched the class back and pulled myself to bits - let’s all not reference my appalling arms in The hundred. Anyway, it’s there!! (Mixed ability)

Strength - full body, all levels technique class. This is suitable for everyone and is giving lots of teaching tips and options so please have a look and see how you get on. (Strength) - if you haven't tried strength work before, why not give this one a go?

Lower body burn - lots of plies and glutes work, involving a soft ball and once again, some appalling coordination from me. Apologies! I was covering Clare’s class and teaching on a Wednesday really threw me sideways! That is my excuse and I am keeping it. (Mixed ability).

Full body strength (circuits style) -Thursday's 8am class using heavy and medium weights. 7 x rounds of 3 exercises in a row, with a break between each round. (strength). Haven't tried a Friday 8am before? why not give it a go?

All levels 34 moves. Thursday’s all levels classes, linking and sequencing the moves in a modified and adapted way. We got through 29 and will cover the last 9 in the next class. (All levels) - everyone would benefit from running though this one to remember how to adapt and modify where needed.

In addition to our lovely Serenity Saturday at The Arches, I am teaching a workshop at Limewood Herb House in a couple of weeks on women and strength entitled “Living Longer, Living Stronger” alongside fitness manager Justin and author of “Eat your Brain happy” Stephanie J Moore. While I am really looking forward to being a part of this and cannot wait to see what I can learn in addition to what I will be delivering, I am rather chuffed that, by pure chance, we have had our own version with our very own superstar clinical nutritionist Yvonne and all our strength classes! So once again, may I say… we are ahead of the game!

(I may well and frequently do forget what side we are working, lose coordination and oh! my arms in The Hundred!! but never underestimate how much time I spend researching, studying, learning, planning… STILL to be found practising random moves out in the forest while walking the dogs and my voice notes to self on my phone of ideas and things to look up run into hours!)

I hope you have a lovely Easter break and will see you in (gulp) the start of the Summer term! Fingers crossed for some warm weather and more classes outside on the beach (online access as usual). I will do my best to add to the calendar and instagram but of course the what's app group is the most reliable as weather is so changeable.,

Enjoy your Easter eggs and have a really lovely Easter weekend. Let's hope the sun stays shining and I will see you on Thursday- Clare will be back with you on Wed but there are MASSES of classes in the library for you so why not dip your toe in and try a class from a collection you may have previously avoided?

Weekly Wrap up. Week 15. 2025

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:15:53 GMT

On the beach, meeting our challenges and other bits and bobs

Look at little Gretl's pose in the picture!!

By the time you read this, I will be celebrating my birthday, having completed another couple of classes on the beach. Apologies for a few minor technical hitches - just the usual dusting off, shaking out the cobwebs, oiling the machinery and maybe some new varnishing for the Summer season!

Yes, it is very chilly but glorious. Just glorious - swans flying overhead, waves lapping the shore, birdsong, fresh air and sunshine. I was dressed in many warm layers but it was really worth it.... not least as I had my van back and could drive there as the night before I was faced with the dilemma that my van was in the garage and would not be ready and there I was thinking "why oh why did I choose this week to go to the beach and was contemplating cycling, complete with tripod. spare mats etc on my back before continuing into Lymington to 121 clients so I was very relieved that my huffing and puffing paid off and my van was ready to collect. Would have been a very early alarm call otherwise.

So as I enter my next rotation of the sun, I have been reflecting on the past year with, may I say, some pride. 12 months ago, I started lifting weights with consistency and purpose, bringing that to my classes and sharing with you.

Coming up with different challenges, keeping it varied, dusting off my personal trainer skills and just simply turning up week after week has been a massive challenge but one I have embraced with open arms. I can assure you there have been many Friday mornings when the alarm goes off and I have lain there wondering how on earth I am going to get out of bed, much less teach a full on strength class and I am afraid, as you all know, those tend to be the most challenging classes as I am so worried I am not giving enough energy, I overcompensate and nearly kill us all.

I know all too well, what confidence is needed to take it up a level and we all have our areas where we feel less able. As you know, I was a passionate runner and could run for ever. Slowly and ideally fairly flat but I could just run and run, I remember once, running from Beaulieu to Lymington and there was one bit where I came off the forest onto the road just as my mum was driving past. "Where are you off to?" says she -"do you need a lift?"...."no mum, I am running. I am training." "Don't be daft darling - no need - hop in!"....

When we went travelling, my luxury item was my trainers into which I packed my 1000 mile socks and sports bras and I ran in almost every country we visited. I particularly remember 2 occasions... one was in Australia where a family we were staying with would drive me out somewhere and drop me and then look after my girls as I ran some 20 odd miles back and this one time, I was in my own little world, running a very, very long and flat and empty road and looking up to see, sitting in front of me, a large, male Kangaroo. Fortunately, he found me totally boring and leaped off over a fence but it did frighten me.

When we arrived in Fiji, we really lucked out with the holiday promoters who were jostling us at the airport. We were by now, exhausted and it was late, very hot and stressful and daughter no. 2 burst into tears which set me off. The holiday rep was mortified thinking he had pushed us too hard and frightened poor little single mum me and my little girls and before we knew it, we were offered a 5 star family lodge, all inclusive as a last minute cancellation - thank you very much and don't mind if I do. It came with a really excellent kids club - such a shame we only had 3 nights but total decadence while we were there. On the drive in, I noticed the long train tracks for the sugar cane trains and thought that might be a good way to get in some miles as even I couldn't get lost if I just ran out, turned around and ran back. I was discussing all this with the resort manager - was it safe, where would it take me, what should I look out for etc, when he sweetly said "madam, where exactly do you wish to go? Can I arrange a taxi at a very reasonable rate for you?"

Anyway all that behind me, I am trying to progress with my cycling. Well, I say that... I have joined the Lymington Triathlon club (for the cycling section) and they could not make me more welcome and it has been a really good step forward, not least as last Sunday I spent 4 hours on a bicycle maintenance course. I actually didn't fully understand some things and there was definitely a time or two when my mind wandered off, thinking "Sod that, Im not mending that thing I cant even remember the name of. In the event of that catastrophe I will definitely sit road side and look forlorn until help arrives (or get a taxi and buy a new bike)" but I do now understand a bit more about general care and maintaining my bike - even if everyone did keep asking me if it was brand new as it was so spotless. EXCUSE ME, I pointed out, I have been out loads actually... well, quite a bit...

I went out with the Wednesday group a few weeks ago. Get out in the fresh air, I thought. Join a club with like minded people. Step away from work and do something for YOU. It will do you the world of good.

My idea was a swift morning cycle followed by an afternoon of admin and chores. We met at Lymington council offices to ride off at 9am. A friendly group of around 10 of us.

Well, by the time I got back from that ride, I couldn't even face taking the bike off the back of the van, and had to lie down on the sofa... the rest of the day was a total write off.

However.... having been inspired on my bicycle maintenance course, I hastily signed up for TWO endurance events and have not slept properly since to tell 'truth.

A lovely friend and online member Laura who is a NINJA cyclist, spin instructor and triathlete and I went out for the loveliest cycle on Wed night. You know what a beautiful evening it was? It was a joy from start to finish and she very generously gave me hints and tips. However, she has also very kindly offered to meet me again and help me with .... well all of it really and I have to tell you I am really excited and utterly terrified.

Why am I. telling you this? well, because a) it makes me accountable because now I have put it out there, I have to do it (yes, I do! I'm far too proud and committed not to) and also to say that b) I truly understand why you may feel hesitant about picking up heavier weights or trying a circuits class or something like that. I get it - I can't completely explain it because who are we competing with except ourselves? I mean, Laura won't be carrying a whip and a megaphone to shout at me so why am I nervous? So yes, I do understand and many of you have spoken to me about this and about the confidence side of things. I only hope I can inspire, motivate and encourage you when you choose to push your boundaries as much as my new cycling coach is doing for me.

I am committed to my fitness and exercise and the lifestyle changes I have made and I intend to continue this year with the same punch that I started 12 months ago, so I just want to say that, give or take the odd sofa crash, lie in and extra occasional day off, I really do practise what I preach! What gives me the greatest pride is seeing how many of you have come SO far too. More classes a week, heavier weights, more advanced exercises - it means THE WORLD to me. No just that but as another really good friend and fellow member said this week, having had to miss a few classes due to a skiing injury, that she was going to get online and join a class even if she couldn't do any of it, as she just missed logging on and being connected to us all. And that says it all - we support eachother. Warriors are we!

I actually managed to dig out a photo of me in Fiji running on the trainlines. I remember that iPod shuffle on my armband - I was absolutely thrilled when I bought that in Oz - positively archaic now!

Weekly wrap up. Week 14. 2025.

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 17:02:11 GMT

Spring Reconditioning.

Spring is here! The sun is out, the flowers are doing their best, the days are now longer and hopefully we are all feeling motivated and ready for doing a bit more!

How are you going to start your Spring? How about some reconditioning?

I am no stranger to psychotherapy and I find this work absolutely fascinating . Of course it takes many forms and is a constantly growing and evolving science but I find it staggering how, in the right hands and with appropriate work (and it is hard work) we can learn to recondition our way of thinking, our emotional responses and how we deal with triggers and challenges. We do not need to accept that "this is just how I am".... we can change how things affect us. There is a saying that I use a lot - "while we cannot control situations around us, we can control how they impact us".

I see this as so very closely related to our physical well being too. Those who are regulars in my classes know that I feel really strongly about how I want you to learn about your body. I am often asking you to "check in" or I ask you to work with your eyes closed to feel the movement or if you feel resistance or pain, where is it coming from - can you see a wider picture and so on. I want you to better understand how you move, where your weaknesses are and what areas need attention or development. Just as with psychotherapy, this is no overnight fix and it takes a huge amount of work, attention and discipline but we can learn to recondition our bodies and Pilates is so very much about that.

When we practise Pilates, we do so for many reasons. I talk a lot about how you don't need to love Pilates but what you will gain will be a stronger, better balanced, more coordinated and responsive body to then enable you to enjoy better what you DO love, be it to run faster, cycle further, hit a ball harder and so on or just simply to go about your daily life with less aches and pains.

A body we love and a body we hate are made exactly the same way. A decision at a time.

When we do a standing move taking our arms to the ceiling for example, we consider how efficiently we are moving because if we cannot perform this move as it is, how can we safely lift heavy dumbbells to the ceiling without risking damage to our shoulders and spine?

If we cannot squat in a balanced and coordinated way then this can directly impact our running, cycling and so many other functions so this is the type of thing I talk about in our classes - it may seem slow and tedious sometimes but these are the foundations from where we build towards higher impact, power and range if those are our goals.

If you do not practise slow, controlled and coordinated movement, you may not even be aware of imbalance and weakness as other areas are making up the shortfall but as I am always nagging on, if something is compensating, it leads to imbalance which leads to injury.

While physios and osteos work their magic and put us back together, what we need to do is recondition our movement so that we move more effectively. It takes a huge amount of time, discipline and practise but it works.

12 months ago, I chose to make some changes to my exercise and lifestyle. I needed to lose weight, I wanted to get fitter and stronger as well as preserve a problem knee and hip and in order to do that, I was looking at a long term plan. I had to surrender to the reality that this was indeed a long term approach as to fully recondition my body, I had to make fundamental changes.

I hate being in the kitchen. I loathe it. I literally loathe it. This continues to be my weakness and a work in progress.( I nearly typo'd wok in progress - how ironic). If I can cut a corner or take a short cut around my nutrition, please DEAR GOD, I will.

I know that my discipline is far stronger in the gym - or in my case, my spare room that is fully functioning with spin bike, weights rack and all my Pilates small equipment. I can drag myself in there on a weekday night or a Sunday morning and put myself through a full on session of weights or spinning that leaves me in bits but I will do anything to avoid "wasting" precious time standing in my kitchen preparing healthy food, so for me, this has been a massive challenge. I am still working on reconditioning my thinking in this area but physically, I am winning.

I am 57 next week and I am slimmer than I have been in a decade and stronger than I think I have ever been. I have just bought some heavier dumbbells (hilarious watching the delivery driver get THOSE out of the van) and am keeping up on my "board of accountability " by writing up every workout.

It is an ongoing project but my attitude is much more about (my own) training being part of my weekly life like the weekly shop, cleaning the house, keeping on top of the bookwork etc, rather than having to train for something specific.

How are you going to attack April? Can you make some lifestyle choices that you have been putting off? Can you squeeze in a couple of extra workouts just because? Reconditioning is slow and steady and takes time and discipline so baby steps but keep taking them.

Just keep turning up....get on that mat, lace up those trainers... it may not be your hardest session or your fastest time but turn up and do something to keep the show on the road and stay consistent - that is how we can recondition our approach. There is the discipline right there - ignore that naggy voice saying you are too tired or too busy... just get on your mat at the time you had set aside and do what you can do. It is a powerful message to your whole system. Keep the consistency - drop one session and before you know it, it's become a week which slides into a month.. and then you have to start all over again. How many starting from the beginnings do you want?

As for my food prep however... still an uphill challenge. I read the books, I listen to the podcasts and I buy the ingredients and I am getting better at batch prepping... so dull cooking for 1... I continue to work at this and have a lot more work on my reconditioning to change my thinking but I will not give up and isn't it a good job then that we have an excellent nutritionist for our upcoming talk!

Our last jolly

We had a fantastic day out on Wednesday on the Isle of Wight. We are SO much more than Pilates and we all love our get togethers. Sadly a couple of you had to drop out at the last moment but we were a brilliant group taken very bestest care of by our Island online member Sarah (who was taking this photo).

We walked, had coffee and goodies, a delicious lunch, more walking and a mooch around Yarmouth before our ferry home although 2 stayed on to watch the sunset and have fish and chips tea and catch a later ferry. We were blessed with beautiful weather and it was a super day - to be repeated.

It was wonderful to have such a good turnout at Beaulieu village hall last Saturday for the last of our 5 years online birthday celebrations. Right back to where it started! We had a lovely class and walked up the road for coffees and pastries and I was delighted to see so many of you. Thank you for your support.

Have a lovely weekend and see you soon. Jx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 13. 2025

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 09:24:23 GMT

It's a busy one... but then, when isn't it?

Forgive the late delivery but it's been quite a week!

What a busy time we have had and it has been amazing to have your support along the way. I could not let half a decade slip by without acknowledging it in some way and this week, we have had 6 extra classes which were open to any and everyone.

5 years online! While we still have a bit of bumbling around, on the whole we have all become so much more tech savvy and suggesting a FaceTime or zoom meet is now perfectly normal and sharing screens, downloading apps and practising classes online is all now part of our lives.

OF COURSE we love to see each other in person and I totally respect those still reluctant as they worry that they won't get the same attention in class or feel PTSD from lockdown and want to stay off screen, I completely get that and believe me, I STILL feel a shiver when I talk about lockdown and it is not a subject I like to dwell on. However...

No-one has everything. A mantra I live by. No matter what, no-one has everything. From a more light hearted perspective, with regards our classes, what we have gained online for the largest part, is far more regular attendance. From the face to face days of once a week and forgetting about it, I now see most people at least 4 times a week and the stats from my video library (yes - I do know!!) tell me what gets accessed and how much and I take huge pride in how much the library is used - 42 hours last week alone. Your progress is outstanding and those who attend classes multiple times a week are so, so far advanced in your both your skill, understanding and overall ability. I know you know this as so many of you have told me how much stronger and able you feel - isn't it great! While I enjoy my face to face classes, the convenience of being online has changed my world and for me, and for many of you, there is no turning back!

Face to face - I know you think I am a real bore for asking you to turn your phone off and for pushing you hard in the class (n.b. - it is the chatty classes with those who like to distract everyone where I push you the hardest... !) but why come to class if you don't want to learn, progress and improve? I love a good natter and a catch up but before/after not during! My point being that for those of us (and we continue to grow) who are online addicts, we appreciate that we can have regular, easy and convenient access to classes to WORK and then we can do other things for our social catch ups - so we don't miss out! We just go for coffee feeling strong and smug!

To that end.... we had 6 extra classes this week where I was multi screening on Zoom and Instagram live and it worked really well, didn't it! It was fantastic to see so many of you joining on the 'gram (and yes, I know several of you were lying in bed with a cup of tea watching - it's ok, I couldn't see you!!!!! ) but it was a different way for me to reach you - still very nerve wracking and scary as a new way to deliver - live on the 'gram was quite scary but nowhere NEAR as scary as that first, Facebook live from Beaulieu village hall on Friday 17th March 2020 - that experience will be forever be etched on my face in worry lines.

We wrapped it up right back where it started at the village hall yesterday and it was wonderful to see you all - what a fantastic turn out and extra points to Stella who came from London! Of course it is lovely to see eachother in person and a suggestion was made that we do an extra class every couple of months or so in the hall followed by coffee and once I have recovered from this week, I will definitely give that some thought.

It isn't just factoring in the extra classes. It is the energy to deliver them as well as I can, to be the best I can, to have the energy and enthusiasm to motivate and inspire you. Add to that some nerves as I deliver in a new way .... adding to the fact that I actually went out not once but TWICE. I never go out - I am a total hermit so twice in a week is a big deal, added to a big week of adrenaline fuelled extra live delivery but it was WHERE I went,.. a local village hall charity medium evening on Thursday which was as community based as it comes and equally like a scene from The Archers (I should know, I never miss an episode) followed by the maddest evening I can ever remember- having taught 6 classes on Friday, 2 of which were weight training, I had to get home, walk the dogs, shower and be out of the house by 4.45pm. WHO goes out that early? I was by now on automatic pilot and had left my brain somewhere else which on reflection was just as well, as I then went to Bongo Bingo in Bournemouth. THE MADDEST, most hilarious evening I have had in a very long. It was brilliant, made more so by being in a big and very fun group, It is so mad, I cant really explain it other than to say it sure as heck blew away the cobwebs, I danced my legs off, won nothing, found I am hopeless at bingo and yes, we absolutely are going to have a JP's social night out there.

What else?

As we head towards Easter, please (members) keep check your calendar as there will be a reduced schedule over the Bank Holiday week.

I am really looking forward to our next Teatime talk coming up on April 15th with Yvonne Bishop Weston who is a hugely well respected nutritionist. Details going up on my website in the next few days but please do put the date in your diary. As with all the talks, this is open to everyone and will be a really superb chat. To have access to specialists of this calibre from the comfort of your sofa is just an amazing opportunity that I am really delighted to share with you.

If you are in my classes and want to know more about our socials and get together's, please drop me a line.

This Wednesday a group of us are taking the ferry to the Isle of Wight for a walk and lunch and we have a really superb group going to Battersea power station in June for a private, guided tour and lunch.... then of course, there will be Bongo Bingo....

Happy Mo thering Sunday to you whether you are a mother, have a mother, no longer have a mother or wherever you fit in.

Thank you for your support this week. You just get better and better xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 12. 2025

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 17:52:31 GMT

Quick weekly touching base!

This is a super quick hello and happy Friday from the very sunny Lake District.

We have had stunning weather to enjoy what has to be one of the most beautiful areas in England.... as we arrived and sat in our little garden, looking across miles upon miles of incredible views, we commented on the peace and tranquility- just birdsong and the occasional baa from the neighbouring sheep. What bliss..... until 2 fighter jets bombed through the skies and proceeded to loop the mountains.... otherwise, total peace and perfection!

I very much look forward to seeing you on Monday - don't forget our extra classes next week. I really hope lots of you can join me and do please share with friends and family.

Have a great weekend and see you bright and early Monday.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 11. 2025

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 19:20:17 GMT

Juliet's Pilates was live. 17 March 2020

There I am . Standing on the stage in an empty Beaulieu village hall the Friday before we went into lockdown. You might not see it there but my goodness, I can feel the fear all this time later... and I have chosen to inflict it on myself once again for our 5 years online birthday week when I had the bright idea to multi screen with Zoom on one screen, Insta live on the other and absolutely no idea currently what to do about the mic. situation.

Feel the fear and do it anyway? Do one thing every day that scares you? Yup - ticked that box!!

Next week.... I am away and you have workout buddies and the library!

Please remember that there are no live classes Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri. next week.

However Laura had a good idea... why not team up with a fellow member or 2, set up your own zoom or facetime for your usual class time, choose the same library class and work together? I think that is an excellent idea and I do look forward to hearing how you get on if you do try it. Photos and shares on the socials please.

I put up FIVE new classes last week and FOUR this week so you have lots of new content.

STRENGTH - Please see a collection of 3 clases that have been added 28/2 PUSH , 7/3 LOWER BODY and 14/3 PULL - These are a collection in that they are of the same format. Go heavy and work hard. What constitutes heavy is up to you and whoever you are and whatever your level, why not try? Can you do all 3 in 7 days?

There are also new Functional strength classes from 4/3 and 11/3 - these are as challenging as you choose to make them so feel free to to go heavier but these are geared to those who want more options and are less experienced with free weights or who possibly need to consider mobility options.

When I come back we hit the ground running and have our extra classes for our 5th birthday. As a reminder -

on zoom via your usual calendar link or live on Instagram

Monday 24th March 07.45am RISE AND SHINE - all levels 30 mins

Tuesday 25th March - 7pm PURE MAT PILATES - all levels 45 mins

Wednesday 26th March 7pm - PILATES WITH SMALL WEIGHTS FUSION. Mixed ability 45 mins

Thursday 27th March 7am - ABS ATTACK. Mixed ability 30 mins

Friday 28th March 7am - MOVE AND MOBILISE All levels 30 mins

Sat 29th March. 9am. 60 mins. Come and join me at Beaulieu Village hall where it all began . Bring your mat, bring a friend or neighbour. Join me for an hour of Pilates followed by coffee and pastries at Steffs. This class will not be available online.

After a swift turnaround, we have a walk and lunch on the IOW Wed 2nd April. If you haven't yet, please let me know if you would like to join us.

Clare celebrated her birthday last week, and incase she hasn't seen everyone on screen, has asked me to pass on a thank you message for you -

"I just wanted to say a huge thank you for the very generous Christmas voucher you gave me. It was such a thoughtful gift, and I'm thrilled to let you know that I was able to use it towards buying a new Garmin watch! It’s exactly what I needed, and I’m already loving being bossed around and hopefully getting lost less! Thank you! x"

Very apt, I am sure as she is training with Lou for an ultra, mad, totally bonkers endurance event in May!

Have a great weeken d, a great week and see you bright and early on Monday 24th at 07.45am.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 10. 2025

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:17:13 GMT

It's a busy one... but then, when isn't it?

I am writing this while watching the final of 500 words... I feel a bit overwhelmed now!!

A week where I don't know about you but I am bit fed up with the sewage storyline in Ambridge, delighted to see sunshine and daffodils and bursting with news from our community!

This week we have lifted weights, rolled on rollers, mastered Teasers and Jacknifes, played with poles and sweated in circuits. I don't know about you, but I have had a great week and have really enjoyed our classes (though I say so myself!). Thank you for the messages and feedback - both howling about arms or abs hurting as well as feeling fabulous.

It has been a busy week and we have a lot coming up for the rest of March -

LOADS new in the library!

One of the exras that sets us apart from other online options is our easy to navigate library, exclusive to members.

5 new classes this week and all very easy to find as they are categorised and listed in uniformed, date order. Sorry about the triceps but that class is also there... go on - you know you want to do it again... we have pure mat for all levels, all levels rollers, strength training, small equipment circuits and the inversion and roll over class. So much to choose from and keep you challenged.

I wish you a sunny and peaceful weekend and hope you have all the above in your diary!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 9. 2025. It's nearly our 5th Birthday!

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 19:58:03 GMT

I very nearly missed it. I was thinking about an April challenge or similar when I suddenly realised that WE ARE 5! In March, we will have been online for a whopping 5 years and as we grow ever stronger, this needs to be celebrated!

Friday 17th March 2020. I was in a totally empty Beaulieu Village hall as everyone was staying home and with legs shaking and heart racing, I leant my phone up against a speaker on the stage and started my first ever Facebook LIve class.

A lot has happened in 5 years and we are all far more tech savvy now but this was ground breaking for me at least and I was terrified. Seeing little hearts and smiley faces floating up the screen as more and more people logged on was the biggest support I could have imagined.

That week before what we all knew was coming, I was facing the “what’s next” along with millions of others.

For me, “what next” was a 3 day non stop run of no sleep (adrenaline has many uses) and a huge learning curve. Along with fellow fitness professionals, I was learning how to use Zoom, membership platforms, booking programs, how to manage my website, multi screening, recording and editing. There were a lot of tears and coffee and I did not see my bed for 3 nights straight.

BUT…. (indulge me here please) scrolling back through my old blog posts (still there for you to see!) I saw my first post about Live, free Facebook Pilates on March 20th and my first calendar of classes the same week as we went into lockdown.

I went live, online for free every day, one way or another for 6 weeks right at the start. It nearly killed me and how Joe Wicks kept going, I do not know but I am so proud of that and what we achieved together. I was reaching into countries all over the world as at that time, not as many people were offering this and as everyone was at home, time zones were not as relevant. Friends and family were sharing the links so that they could do classes together and see eachother from wherever they were.

To be honest, it is all a bit of a blur (as I am sure it is for many, many people) as I just fought hard to save my business and my sanity. I do vividly remember one class where we had zooms from Australia, America, Qatar, Dubai and Mallorca. I wrote it down on my office whiteboard where it stayed for years. It was just surreal and I honestly could not believe this was me! I was doing all this on my laptop mirrored to my TV, in my lounge!

You saved me! I was on my own and horribly lonely and isolated and slowly going a bit mad and “having” to log on daily and be positve and upbeat and full of energy to motivate and inspire you genuinely saved me.

I have removed most of the old lockdown content and anything that still triggers me into a shivver of how awful it was, but one thing that I hold in my heart with enormous pride is my online community. I am more proud of this than I can begin to descibe. You are my family. I created this, built and nurtured it and continue to be indescribably proud of what we have all acheived together. Our Christmas lunches, when I sit back and see so many friends, the care and what we share - please know that it means the world to me.

We have got up to SO MUCH online over 5 years. I am not going to go back over it because a) it is all there in old blogs and social media posts and b) full disclosure, I am only truly, this last year, coming out of what the lockdown era took out of me and I do not wish to revisit it but….

True friendships have grown and we all know we really are “SO MUCH MORE THAN PILATES”.

Only last week when a group of us met for a walk, I took so much from hearing you talking about how much YOU get from it - not just the exercise but the daily morning chats and check in’s, the community and support - that you cannot believe how you used to do one class a week, whizz in, whizz out and that was that until the following week whereas now you are doing multiple classes a week and what’s apping fellow members, logging in to see friends and sharing so much.

I have been able to teach from Cornwall, Botswana, Croatia ,Pembrokeshire, the local beach…. and as my feet get ever more itchy, the wonders of online means have van, have wifi - you can come with me! I have never wanted to go down the commerical studio route. That was never for me. Far too restrictive - and as online works, the world awaits!

So here we are. This last week we have beamed into MELBOURNE (furthest reach so far!), Singapore, Tanzania, Germany, France, Spain, Greece and never forgetting the Isle of Wight… we have more members than ever, a wonderful variety of classes and the library has had another update with more to come. Teatime talks are shaping up (new page on the website under construction), we have 2 socials in the diary and it’s still only February.

This year is my 20th anniversary as a Pilates teacher and 22 years since I started out as a Personal trainer. As the wonderful Master Teacher Michael King (who I am going to for a week of Pilates in Crete in May) says - “Old Pilates teachers never retire. We just roll down one day and never roll back up”

For our fifth anniversary, it seems only right to go back to where it started so bear with me and watch this space as I plan a collection of extra FREE classes available to EVERYONE, some on Zoom, some on instagram live. This will be week commencing March 24 March and PLEASE put Saturday March 29th in your diary and come to Beaulieu village hall for old time’s sake for a FREE class open to ALL starting at 9am - and coffee and pastries up the road afterwards at Steffs.

I will sort the times and days and post next week and in our members’ calendar but everyone is included.

Do also keep March 11th in your diary for the first of our Teatime talks - again, open to all. The wonders of being online.

What's coming up.

The Teatime talks are really taking shape. Head over to the new page on my website (being updated so regular check in's suggested).

And finally

Everyt hing will be alright in the end.

If it is not alright, it is not yet the end.

The only real failiure is the failiure to try and the measure of success is how we cope with disapointment.

Remember you are everything, or you are nothing.

There is no past that we can bring back by longing for it. Only a present that builds and creates itself as the past withdraws.

Some of my favourites from The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Have a great weekend everyone xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 8. 2025. There's none so easy to delude as oneself....

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 20:03:15 GMT

Ok, full disclosure. I think it was me that dropped the clanger yesterday morning... those of you who joined me would have seen that I was not at home, and when I arrived at my destination the night before, I realised I didn't have a magic circle with me and went into the 8am class and edited it to avoid the little hiccough and I THINK I may not have saved the changes. I may be wrong as I am in and out of the library ever such a lot but I am going to put my hand up and say it was me.

I could probably wing it and get away with it but I have never been very good at lying and dishonesty does not sit well with me.

Mind you, I say that.....

I remember many moons ago... many, many moons ago when I was 15. My parents had a bar at the side of the lounge - terribly "all the rage" at the time, then terribly naff and I believe, quite the rage again now. Anyway, I was home on my own, I was bored and I started looking for mischief.

I took the carefully hidden key ( hidden above the door as we all knew very well) and let myself into the little bar. I worked my way through the optics of many, almost certainly past their sell by date bottles of revolting sticky liquid and tried each and every one. Needless to say it was not long before I thought I was going to die. I staggered out of the back door to find somewhere to hide (and possibly die) and spied my sister's Hillman Minx which I crawled into and gratefully slept. When I woke, the effects were swift and I just managed to wind down the rear window and get my head out before events overtook me.

As I was walking slowly back up the garden, my mother and sister arrived home and my sister was horrified at the state of her car. I still, to this day do not know how I did it but without missing a beat, I just informed her that there had been a load of seagulls flying overhead and they must have poo'd down the car door. Im still laughing now, some 42 years later, at how I just came out with that line and that, as I was staggering up the stairs "with the start of a bad cold", I heard my mother and my sister discussing how shocking it was that the seagulls had done that.... dear reader, we lived in Enfield, North London. There is not a coast for a hundred miles.

My mother told us stories about when we were little and I recall the story of how my sister furiously denied writing all over the new wallpaper in her bedroom with a crayon. It was the fact that she would not back down and insisted it could not be her that saw her sent to bed. "But how did you know it was me?" she sobbed and my mother told us that the writing was, quite literally on the wall - all around her bedroom in wonky letters read "Louise 4"

Yet, as the saying goes, there is none so easy to delude as oneself. I can say for fact that I have on many occasions talked myself into or out of situations, telling myself I could justify that cake because I deserved it, I could have that drink because I had earned it, I could slack off work because I had earned the right to... How many times have you gone to do something and then given yourself permission not to because of the story you came up with?

I guess that can go too far and I know more than one or two who have lied for so long that they started to believe their own warped narrative. One such was my ex husband who lied to me about his age... when he asked me once to get his passport from his laptop bag, I flipped to the photo page to see how bad his picture might be, only to be confronted with a date of birth quite different from the one he had told me.. and he admitted that he had been telling me for so long that he had actually convinced himself he was indeed 8 years younger... Mind you, I still married him so who's the fool!!

We all tell white lies and we don't want to cause unnecessary discomfort - if someone has just spent a fortune on a new outfit and they are thrilled, would we honestly tell them we didn't like it? ..... on that note though.... when we were teenagers, a friend of mine's mum and her neighbour went down their road to the church to watch the arrival of a bride for her wedding. Maybe it was because they hadn't been invited and were a bit miffed but they were less than complimentary and I can honestly remember this to the word and I am laughing as I write this ..."Crikey, the bride has clapped some weight on, hasn't she? I thought brides were meant to lose weight in the run up - do you think she has already eaten all the wedding cake? I would definitely wear sleeves with those arms" ... "And WHAT is Sheila wearing on HER HEAD? Call that a hat? ".... all this said unfortunately, very close to the videographer, back in the days of wedding videos being very new and with none of today's editing available. Every word was captured and saved.... on their ACTUAL wedding video... I kid you not...

Learning to be brutally honest with ourselves is one of life's greatest lessons.

One of my favourite books is Rachel's Holiday by Marian Keyes. Marian is an addict in recovery and weaves addiction of many forms into all her novels (also brilliant - Again Rachel and Grown Up's) and she talks with such candour on the subject of addiction - I have heard her interviewed many times and it is the power to delude ourselves that is so shocking. The lies we can tell ourselves when all around us can see through it.

Another great speaker on the subject is the mighty Edith Eger, who I have mentioned before. A holocaust survivor, she continues to lecture as a psychotherapist in her 90's - her books The Choice and The Gift are absolute must reads. She talks about healing without distraction - whether that is alcohol, drugs, food, shopping, exercise, scrolling social media... it takes so many forms but it is only when we remove the many distractions that we can start to sit with ourselves, get to truly know ourselves and then, and only then may we move forward.

We know the need to be present, to be still, to be quiet but sometimes it helps to hear it delivered in a different voice or explained around another approach for us to see how it may benefit us.

Anyway - my name is Juliet Nicholas. I am 56 and when I was 15, I vomited down the outside of my sister's car. There are no seagulls in Enfield.

What's coming up.

I hope all members are now happy with finding your way around the library!! Do get in touch if you have any questions!

The hideous abs class from Tuesday is in the library but I doubt anyone will want to see that again and last week's strength class is also up. Remember all classes are added in date order with the newest first.

And finally

The six best doctors anywhere

And no-one would deny it

Are sunshine, water, rest and air

Exercise and diet.

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.

Have a great weekend everyone and I really look forward to seeing some of you at our walk tomorrow xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 7. 2025. Teatime Talks, Socials and more

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 18:25:28 GMT

It's a busy one this week! If you just want class updates, please scroll to bottom.

In a week that has seen Ambridge awash with sewage, Eastenders celebrating it's 40th birthday and just a hint of Spring in the air, I am delighted to welcome new online members and see our wonderful community grow to it's largest yet. Online really does work!

Socials!

What's coming up.

While half term wreaks havoc we will continue with a full timetable. You will need resistance bands and magic circles next week so please get in touch if you need to check.

The "how to avoid a new Knee" part 2 will be coming but I have been very busy with another project for our library which I look forward to sharing with you very soon.

Have you watched Amandaland? available on Iplayer and laugh out loud funny. My favourite, funniest line... (talking about the character played by Joanna Lumley) - "Mummy has very bad scoliosis; it comes from years of looking down on people"

And finally

Training to build muscle and strength?

Lift weights and do some cardio

Eat lots of protein

Get plenty of sleep

Be patient - it won't happen overnight

Eat slightly MORE calories than you need

Supplement with creatine

Training to lose body fat?

Lift weights and do some cardio

Eat lots of protein

Get plenty of sleep

Be patient - it won't happen overnight

Eat slightly FEWER calories than you need

Supplement with creatine

"Every time you repeat a new habit, you are casting a vote for the kind of person you want to become. The more votes you cast, the stronger that identity becomes until one day ...it's just who you are." Charles Duhigg.

Have a great weekend everyone and do spread the word about Dr. Sam's talk - you never know - you might help save someone's life xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 6. 2025. Why stress is good for you!

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 21:11:17 GMT

Why stress is good for you!

AND Finally

"If you quit now, you'll end up right back where you were when you first began, and when you first began, you were desperate to be where you are now! " - Anon. Just keep turning up

Have a great weekend and may I recommend "Man on the Inside" on Netflix. It is just wonderful - very gentle and very, very funny.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 5. 2025. Shaghalabaghala

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 21:13:44 GMT

Shaghalabaghala

AND Finally

Peace is always better than revenge
No message is a message
If they come back, don't forget how they left.
Do you want to be right or do you want to be happy?
Everything happens for a reason. Be calm.
Some things don't work out because you deserve better.
The quality of people around you matters more than the number of people.
Be kind. Everyone is healing from something.
Everything will be alright in the end. If it is not alright, it is not yet the end.

We got there - It's February tomorrow! Whoop.

Have a great weekend x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 4 2025. What we learn as we practise

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 16:52:12 GMT

Every day's a school day....

AND Finally

I was inspired by a post I saw that I then hijacked and used but the words reallly rang true.

"It won't happen overnight but if you give up now, it won't happen at all."

As Storm Eowyn heads our way, stay safe, stay warm and just keep turning up... It is all too easy to give up on good intentions when it is cold, dark, miserable.... you don't have to smash targets and beat your personal best... just keep turning up and doing what you can! Thank goodness for online! No excuse.

Have a safe weekend and see you next week x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 3. 2025. Checking in and setting long term plans

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 17:02:58 GMT

but... what about what you are already doing so well?

RESET CHALLENGE.

Our very own Clare is offering a 15 day reset challenge starting today. For more info, get in touch with Clare or with me and I can direct you.

AND Finally

Health and fitness can be a "most of the time" thing. It does not have to be an "all of the time" thing.

Don't speak negatively about yourself, even as a joke. Your body doesn't know the difference. Words are energy and they cast spells - that is why it is called spelling.

Change the way you speak about yourself and you can change your whole life .

Bruce Lee.

Have a great weekend everyone x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 2. 2025. Getting through January

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 22:47:24 GMT

Weekly Wrap up. Week 1. 2025. Happy New Year!

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 15:41:51 GMT

We are baaaaaaack....2025, we are coming for YOU!

We are heading into our FIFTH year online can you believe! Let's make this THE healthiest, strongest, most empowering year yet.

Let's all think of our own goals and objectives, whatever they may be. Have a little check in on your mood, energy levels, strength, mobility, diet, sleep pattern, stress levels, any aches, pains or issues... maybe write some observations and check in once a month, keeping some notes.

It is easy to overlook what we have gained, improved on and grown in because it isn't happening quickly enough or as much as we want, so let's check in, observe our own progress and celebrate our fabulousness!!!

See you online xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 51/52. Happy Christmas and Thank you

Sun, 22 Dec 2024 19:26:41 GMT

Well, ok, I couldn't let the last week of the year pass by...

Exercise isn't just about moving your body. It is working on those neural pathways, It is helping with concentration, with sleep, with stress. It is getting the brain and the body communicating. Exercise makes us feel happier, calmer, better equipped to deal with challenge - as well as moving our bodies!

AND Finally

A MASSIVE THANK YOU to everyone for your never ending energy, humour, support and loyalty, I love you all!

Have a wonderful, healthy, peaceful Christmas and I really, really look forward to working with you in 2025. I have lots of plans up my sleeve - of course!!

See you on the other side,

Juliet x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 50. The one where we survived the Tsunami

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:16:37 GMT

As we approach the 20th anniversary of the 2004 Boxing DayTsunami, I thought I would share our story with you.

Monday, December 27, 2004

Tsunami - Juliet's Full Account

Dear all,

I don’t know where to start. How do you begin to describe the events of the last day and a half? We are all alive, intact, with nearly all our belongings, so someone upstairs was most certainly looking after us but there are so many that did not have our good fortune and tonight, while I am so relieved to have my children safe, I am so sad for all the people we saw.

We had just gone into breakfast, and I was sitting at our table, with a little wall separating me from the beach while the others were getting their food. I noticed a “swell” rather than a wave which came right up to the wall and I just thought we were having a particularly high tide and it must be something to do with the full moon. Then I noticed people running and furniture floating about and I called Rosie to come and look, and then all of a sudden it happened.

There was this distant roar and the waiters were shouting at everyone to run for the nearest staircase. I was pushing the girls in front of me and remember getting hit in the back of the legs very hard by a floating chest of drawers. It wasn’t until we were on a balcony on the top floor that I realized I had actually cut the bottom of my foot wide open so someone took me into a room and was dressing that so I didn’t see much but you could hear the madness outside. I don’t know what was worse – the roar of the water or all the screaming. I remember feeling really sorry for the hotel staff as they had gone to such trouble to decorate the restaurant and surrounding area for Christmas. How stupid that seems now. The noise was incredible.

And then the wave had gone. And so had everything in its path. There was not so much in the way of debris – it was just nothing. All the little shacks and beach motels just simply weren’t there anymore. Cars upside down in trees, lorries way out on the seabed. The whole village was just ... not there.

We slowly started to come downstairs and headed towards the second floor balcony by our apartment at the back of the resort furthest from the beach. Johnny went to have a look around and came back to say that there was no water. The sea just wasn't there. You could see far out and there was exposed coral reef and just land. (We found out that the wave was bouncing back off India and the first wave came 5 miles inland where we were). He said that there were ravines up to 6 ft deep where the water was rushing back out to sea. Johnny was videoing the water coming back in and you can see how quickly the whole seabed refills. It was at this point that I started to get really scared. If the water had gone that far out, one could assume it would return with a vengeance and I felt completely helpless. I just kept looking at the girls and thinking what I could do to get them as far away as possible. That is the most awful feeling. I would have sold my soul to get the kids airlifted out. I was just totally helpless. People on the ground floor were drowned in their rooms and some of the people on the balcony were crying as they had lost family members. There was one couple who had carried their toddlers over their heads and climbed the stairs. It was all totally mad.

People all around us were injured and crying as so many people were missing. The villagers were running up and down the road screaming and looking for family. It was the most desperate thing I have ever known. A group of about 12 of us were discussing the options. The hotel was solid and we were high up. However I just kept thinking to myself that the hotel had already been flooded badly – would it survive another bashing and also, if the next wave was bigger, we were totally at its mercy. I really wanted to get to the hills. We went to our room and threw things into bags. We put passports and money into one bag and everything else just got chucked in however. I grabbed some sheets to wrap us in incase we were on the hill for a long time and the mozzys got bad and took bottles of water and peanuts that were in our room. We were still keen to go but I was also very scared to leave. We started to head toward the stairs but then the next wave started to come in.

"I will remember the sound forever. I just kept looking at my children and I didn’t know what to do. I had brought them here and I couldn’t protect them from this and that was the worst feeling."

We couldn’t see much from where we were but we could see villagers on a mound near us and they were screaming and running uphill. I went to the front of the balcony and watched the wave come in. I will remember the sound forever. I just kept looking at my children and I didn’t know what to do. I had brought them here and I couldn’t protect them from this and that was the worst feeling. That I didn’t know how to protect them. I was shouting at Rosie to stay with Johnny no matter what, as he was stronger to hold her, and was telling Heidi how to lock her arms around me and not let go. Heidi looked at me and asked me if we were going to die. I told her that we wouldn’t but I truly thought we were. I was praying and holding the girls tight. We saw people who had set off for the hills get picked up in the water and get carried away and they were screaming and shouting and all we could do was watch. They were literally carried under our balconies in the water.

The wave was smaller and it didn’t reach our level. We watched it race past us below our balcony. But by now I just wanted to get us higher and onto land. Others advised that we stayed put but I couldn’t rest. We had no idea what else may happen. Common sense suggested that the waves could not return with the same force but I was going through the pros and cons and I wanted to take every precaution I could to get my children as far away and as high as I could. The fact that others didn’t agree naturally worried the girls. But another couple that we completed our journey with also chose to go. Rosie was incredibly strong and calm and got bottles of water and the sheets. Heidi looked at me, having seen the other people swept away and practically begged me not to go. I reasoned that the tide was now in so it wouldn’t return with a rush and that I felt it was best to go. So with that, my little girl picked up her bag, absolutely white in the face and she set off and she strode up that street, not looking left or right and she kept going right to the hill. I have been quite overwhelmed with the girls’ bravery throughout. (Many months later, when we were in Australia, we were listening to Bambi on a tape and when the mother deer told Bambi to keep running, Heidi started sobbing. She remembered that I had said that no matter what, she was not to turn round but to keep moving forward towards the hills, even if she couldnt hear me. I don't remember saying that but it must have been terrifying for her).

When we got to a little clearing up a hill, with around 40 others, Rosie went round offering to help injured people with our first aid kit and Heidi and I just climbed a little bit higher than anyone else and just had a little time. Rosie was only 11 but she was comforting people and using our first aid kit to help.

Unfortunately it was also a makeshift morgue which was pretty grim. An Italian man who lived in the village came over and told me I had to get moving and get out as soon as I could as within 24 hours we would be in crisis due to disease with all the many bodies, the overwhelming heat, no facilities or food. I did not want to move but he really got quite firm with me and told me we would die of disease if we didnt go.

We ended up being up there for many hours. Johnny was an absolute trouper. By now I was pretty much in pieces and he was practical. He returned to the hotel twice to gather our things together. There was no way I could have gone back there. But then if I had been left to it, we would still be sitting on that hill, as I did not want to leave. But we were ushered up the road around 6pm to move inland a little to a temple, as there was constant talk of another wave. The monks there helped to make us comfortable and cooked up rice and we settled down for the night. I was still very afraid and every sound was like an approaching wave. Most of us just sat up talking. There was no way I could go inside and certainly not sleep. Johnny and Heidi went inside and slept but Rosie and I sat outside chatting to people.

When the wave had first approached the restaurant, I saw a little jack Russel running frantically up and down the wall trying to escape. I was really upset for him and very nearly reached over the wall to try and grab him but he was too far out and thank goodness I didn’t. I kept thinking about that little dog. He had been around the hotel a lot. While I was sitting down at the temple in the dark, 4m in from the resort, this little dog appeared and climbed onto my lap and went straight to sleep. I could not beleive it was him but someone said he had fallen in line behind all the tourists walking from the resort and followed along with us all the way to the temple. I hope the monks look after him now but he is clearly resourceful.

There were many Government officials back and forth and helicopters and a sense of nobody knowing what to do. At about 3am a coach arrived to take some Dutch tourists back to Colombo. They kindly offered to take others and as we were the only family with children, they prioritised us.

I don’t think I breathed for the 4 hour journey. We had heard of buses being swept away and drowning the passengers and I was just about out of my mind by now, while still smiling at the children and telling them that we were safe.

We crawled at a snail's pace alongside the flooded train that was derailed - the one that has featured over and over on the news. There were so many bodies floating inside and I had to just keep telling the girls to look at me and not out of the window. The reasonably short journey took absolutely hours as the roads were flooded or blocked.

We arrived in Colombo and went to the British Embassy. The embassy official, Jay offered us flights. I had a chat with the girls but they said they wanted to stay so instead he got us a driver and the use of his house. We were taken to a tourist company who were so very helpful. They advised that we should get way up country to bypass the bedlam in the Kandy area where everyone will be heading. They booked us into a hotel and we were then taken to Jay's house to freshen up. He actually joined us shortly afterwards, as there was another tidal wave warning and his offices were closed. He went into town with Johnny to get Macdonalds for everyone. (He has two sons who are at school somewhere in Portsmouth and they were with him for the holidays.) It was very emotional as he was telling me that his wife was killed in a tragic accident last boxing day and the whole family had assembled yesterday to have a dinner and remember her. So to then get the news that he did was very distressing. (The Portsmouth connection was such a coincidence and he and I have stayed friends to this day.)

He and his family made us so welcome and have given us an open invitation to return and stay for as long as we want which is so kind.

We were driven 6 hours to the hotel where we are now. It is very comfortable and quiet (and high and nowhere near the sea) so we will have a couple of days around the pool and stay quiet before deciding on our next move. By chance the manager of this hotel is actively involved in aid work of many sorts so the staff were already preparing emergency food and clothing boxes. I asked if we could help and we were pleased to be able to actually do something constructive and have been packing boxes this evening. The staff had had a whip round and had raised 44000 rs between them, which is a fortune on their wages. Rosie has not stopped and while Heidi rested, she and I have been loading lorries. It feels good to be doing something.

I said I hoped to do some aid work while we were away. I hadn’t anticipated it would be in the first fortnight and to aid the very place we were staying in. Rosie has been an absolute star and immediately got into the line to help bag things up. It has been good to try and do some help albeit not much.

I have been overwhelmed with the help and kindness we have been given. What is so sad is the “them and us” feeling. We were leaving the devastation and being taken to safety but leaving these poor desperate people and I feel so very sad for that.

On Christmas Eve, we met the loveliest little family - a beautiful Sri Lankan girl with her tiny children who sat so quietly at her feet while she worked on her sewing machine. She had a Singer machine and told me of her immense pride at having taken out a bank loan to buy it. We ordered some dresses for the girls, to collect on Boxing Day. That little family were in a tiny shack beachside. They wouldn't have stood a chance.

Sri Lanka is so family orientated - what hit me is that there would not be a single Sri Lankan who was not bereaved.

My mobile had lost its charge during the morning and anyway the phone lines were jammed. When I got to the hotel and put the phone on charge, the messages were coming through like crazy and it was lovely to hear from so many friends. So I will sign off now. Thank you for your messages and kind words. We are all safe and well and comfortable and I am just counting my many blessings. Again.

Juliet x

Wednesday, December 29, 2004

Juliet's Post-Tsunami Update

Hi again, on 29th December.

Firstly, a huge thank you to our lovely friends and family. We have been overwhelmed with all the texts and messages. A lot of people have rung my mum and Caroline has been her usual efficient self by keeping the website updated. We are lucky to have so many caring friends.

We are doing ok. The girls are getting on just fine although they dont want to watch any news reports, which is understandable. Johnny is absolutely fine. He seemed, from the moment the first wave receded, to detach himself emotionally from everything. He only cares about the girls and my well being. He does not really want to consider anything else at all. He has just disassociated himself from the events of the last few days. Due to that, he is totally practical and logical and has sorted any and all hotel and transport arrangements, sorted the doctor for me and done all the necessary boring stuff.

I am doing fine too. I have felt every emotion under the sun but we are bouncing back well. We were on the bus today heading towards anther mid country area, when I just decided that I really needed to get back down to the coast. When it all happened, I would have given every penny I had to get us as far inland as possible. Then having got there, I felt strangely cut off from it all.

I was feeling so frustrated. We can all see the devastation on the news reports but I am only a drive away. I really want to do something to help. I realise I am limited as I can hardly walk and there is no way I will take the children anywhere near the disaster areas but even from a little distance, we can do something. So we are back in Colombo. I dont think Johnny was terribly amused when I announced mid bus journey that I wanted to get back to the coast and although he was understanding, he was not very enthusiastic to start with. Oh well. I have spoken to the Embassy and I hope we can do something. Even just a little, before we head off again and have a few days holiday and remember Sri Lanka for the right reasons.

What was encouraging and quite moving was the huge amount of aid vehicles on the road travelling down. They all had banners tied to the front grills, to stand them apart, and to ask for donations, and all along the road there were people standing patiently in the sun, with bundles of goods, waiting to flag down the next truck.

We arrived at The Hilton to book in, bare foot and ragged. What we hadn't considered was the the world's news crews had taken over the hotel and we were mobbed as we walked in. A charming manager rushed over and guided us to the lifts, telling us he would organise a room somehow but the phone in our room rang all night and people were knocking on the door.

We have shown our video to some news stations and it is being edited now. I am also talking to CNN late tonight to do an interview. The girls got taken on a little tour earlier, to see the reporters on the top floors here at the Hilton doing their live transmissions, and we spent some time watching all the news reports being put together where the news stations have taken over a whole top floor and roof. They were really friendly and showed the girls all the satellite equipment and how they linked it all together. You see when I said that I was going to take my kids round the world and give them the experience of life, I meant it! I dont do things by halves!

Further down the line, Rosie was talking to Matt Baker live on Blue Peter (watched by all her friends) and we as a family took part in a tv interview. When we got the to the airport to leave, we were recognised as "that family". At the check in desk, I asked (as I always did) if there was any chance of an upgrade but of course, the flight was full. When we took off, as the plane left the tarmac, I started to sob. That dreadful, gut wrenching, face screwing up sobbing. I felt such a sense of loss and I could not stop. What was slightly mortifying was the lovely air stewardess who had turned down my request for an upgrade came over with a glass of champagne by way of apology. Can you imagine? I had to get up and go to her to explain why I was really crying and then we both ended up hugging and crying.

I can see the funny side now of the frantic conversation I had with various other people after the first wave hit. I wondered whether to give my mum a quick call. after all, we were in a popular holiday destination and it was Christmas so wasnt if fairly likely that it may get a little mention on the news? We were discussing whether it was worth waking our families and worrying them needlessly. If only we knew!!

It is quite strange. On the one hand, I feel totally exhausted. I could just sit in a corner and cry for all the events of the last few days. On the other hand, I feel so massively empowered. We have been involved in and survived a massive disaster the likes of which has never been seen before. All of a sudden the normal risks of travelling - illness, losing passports, getting bags and money stolen, rough accommodation - it all seems so trivial. We will take any and all of it in our stride. If we can get out of this in one piece, then dare anything or anyone try and cross us while we continue on our way! Bring it on!!

A few people mentioned that I should write a book about our travels, and I had been giving it serious consideration. Wont this make one hell of an opening chapter?!

Loads of love to all and thanks for all your support. It has been so very much appreciated. >

Juliet, Johnny, Rosie and Heidi xxxx

Sunday, January 02, 2005

Heidi's Tsunami Account

Hello everyone. Thank you for all the messages. I am still a bit scared about the waves but me and my Mum are going to go for a walk on the beach here in Colombo soon.

I was getting my breakfast and I had seen some chocolate cookies when Johnny suddenly yelled Hey Heidi look at the water and lifted me up! The water came right up over the beach and picked up the furniture. Then the water came in under our feet and I didn’t really know what was happening until later. Then water was everywhere and nearly everyone was screaming. The people at the hotel were really good and made us all go up to the closest high part of the building. Mum got whacked by a table in the water but she didn’t seem to notice. We all went up the stairs and we saw Mum had cut her foot really badly. Johnny was looking downstairs and filming. When we were upstairs this lady noticed the cut and bandaged mum’s foot. We came back downstairs as the water was going.

We lost Rosie at one bit when she went back to the room and I really wanted to get high up but I really wanted to find Rosie aswell. Mum told this man to take me back upstairs while she went to get Rosie as water was coming back in but this lady took me instead. We made a run for our part of the hotel further away and we made friends. While we were there the water came back and I thought we were going to die. We then packed our bags and I was chucking everything in as quickly as I could but mum took over and redid it as she only wanted to take important things. Mum didn’t like being in the hotel so when we were sure the water had gone for a while we made a run for the hills. I really didn’t want to because I thought the water would come back while we were walking on the road. I heard Mummy saying to Johnny that she was scared the water would come back while we were walking.

We asked for directions but they just drove past us on their motorbike. The second people we asked pointed the way. When we got to the hills we saw some people that we had met at the hotel. People down below were making mistakes. They kept running back to the hills yelling tidal wave tidal wave because they were so scared. But it made us all scared. We were there for a little while but I had climbed a little higher. Later a man stood up and asked to count us all. He wanted to know how many there was so that we could all fit into buses. They wanted to go to Colombo but there were no buses and the roads were closed. So in the end we all walked to the temple. I remember seeing a monkey on the way. While we were walking a truck came and offered us a lift to the temple. (Mum actually paid a lot of dollars.) When we got to the temple, I thought Mum was scared but she kept telling me she wasn’t because we were further inland. I fell asleep and Johnny and I wrapped ourselves in the sheets outside. Mum didn’t want to sleep. Mum woke us up at 3am when a bus came. The bus was really meant for the Dutch but they agreed to take as many as they can so they took us as we were children. When we got to Colombo it was morning and we stopped outside a really fancy hotel and then a cab took us to the British Embassy. We all had a cup of tea and Johnny and mum talked to the people. Afterwards we came to the house of the man at the embassy.

Loads of love from Heidi xxxx

Members' Zone

What's coming up.

There are no live classes on Tuesday 17th - Please use the library as I will be in London watching my daughter getting married!

Don't forget to join Clare this Sunday for our 3rd Stocking filler class. A lovely 30 min stretch and mobilise. This and all Stocking filler classes can be found in the Snack Bite collection.

This will be our last full week of classes of 2024

Check your calendar for all details and I will be putting more info in next week's wrap up.

What's new in the libary

Stocking fillers are in the Snack bar.

The 12 Moves of Christmas - Mixed ability

The Christmas Advent - 24 exercises suitable for all levels

Tuesday and Friday Week 6 challenges - Strength

And finally...

If you consistently

Exercise 3 - 5 times a week

Sleep 7-8 hours a night

Walk 10,000 steps daily

Eat mostly nutritious foods

Don't smoke or binge drink

Drink 3 litres of water a day...

You are fitter than 99% of people - worth checking in, isn't it! Well done you!

Also. - one from my regular go to, Mel Robbins - " Stop buying sxxt you don't need. You don't need a new sweater. You need a new set of goals".

Have a great weekend everyone x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 49. The one where I got a mention on Coronation Street!

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 18:53:09 GMT

Corrie? yes, I did... twice actually.. read on...

This also has nothing to do with exercise, health or fitness but is another festive recollection and come on - it's quite a coup!

Many years ago, in far, far away land, way before Fairy Lights Fiasco, my daughters and I were huge Catherine Tate fans and were watching a lot of it in the run up to Christmas. We were at a New Year drinks party in Beaulieu and were bouncing different lines from sketches back and forth between us along with a couple of their friends when a man standing behind me joined in, word perfect. I was terribly impressed - " oh are you a fan? You know all the words" I exclaimed. "I should do love - I wrote it" he answered and so was my introduction to the genius multi award winning author, screen and playwright that is Jonathan Harvey.

Amongst his many accolades is being part of the writing team for Coronation Street and it always fascinated me just what power he has, sitting at his laptop choosing what might befall central characters and cause heartbreak and joy in equal measure across living rooms countrywide. He told me how he draws on everyday events and friends' lives to inspire him when he is writing - ( I do recall a conversation when we discussed how there was a TV drama waiting to happen about my family but he said that it was so bonkers and chaotic that no one would believe it!)...

Anyway imagine my delight when he texted me to say that I was going to feature, in a reference to my Pilates classes and hoped that was ok... hoped that was ok?? HOPED THAT WAS OK?

As you can imagine, I informed all my classes and on the allotted day, after much excited texting to confirm which episode it was, we were all sat at 7.30pm on our sofas, waiting for the most famous theme tune in the world.

Let me set the scene.

We are in The Kabin where Norris, Rita and Mavis are chatting and gently bickering over the mint imperials while re stocking Women's Weekly and American Tan pop sox.

Mavis "Well, I can't be 'anging about, I have to get t' community centre"

Norris "Why? What's appenin at community centre?"

Mavis "I make the teas and coffees for all ladies coming outta their Pilates class"

Norris "Ooo I can picture it now - all them snake 'ipped women"

Rita "snake 'ipped women? SNAKE 'IPPED WOMEN? Ive seen that lot - its like feeding time at t'elephant enclosure"

Does mortified have one r or two?

Jonathan reassured me that he was going to make it up to me in a future episode and this time, would reference my old life in showjumping. For some reason, I was mollified.

Cue the music. Cue the cobbles. Cue the eager anticipation, sat on the edge of my sofa.

Let me set the scene.

We are in the factory and a very angry Julie is pounding her way up and down hems on her sewing machine in a temper. Mild mannered Sean approaches and engages in some chat.

Sean "Wassup w'you? . Is it your fella again?

Julie "My EX fella. We are OVER"

Sean "No wayyyyy - why?"

Julie "He's been cheating again 'asn't he? with his rotten ex, Juliet the Showjumper"

Sean "Juliet the Showjumper?"

Julie "Yes. Juliet the Showjumper....everyone knows she's a right old slapper"

Shall we move on?

What's new in library and what's coming up

We have one week left of our 6 week strength challenge and I am delighted with all the feedback. I know many of you have managed to repeat the classes and have really felt the benefits but even if you haven't, well done to everyone for turning up and taking part every week and all the classes are there in the library for you to pick up and take part in whenever you like.

Maybe you might set yourself a January goal or similar.

I am really pleased with how the library has progressed and along with Clare's collection, I hope you feel that there is something for everyone. Why not try a class you haven't taken part in before - enjoy a deep stretch or some beginner Pilates for some revision and reflection. Perhaps try a small equipment class and if you are looking for gift ideas, then perhaps. you might ask for a foam roller or some heavier weights?! I am happy to give guidance on what you need.

I will be seeing you on Sunday for our 9am Sunday Stocking filler and this one will be mobility with body weight strength. These classes are recorded and stored in The Snack bar . Also going in the library this week are Tuesday and Friday strength classes and Clare's Barre inspired Pilates from this Wed.

Clare and I have put our festive thinking caps on and I hope our upcoming calendar of festive inspired classes will keep you entertained as we bring you as many cheesy titled classes of fun and shenanigans we can! We have a really busy calendar and will be running classes right up to and including our last festive class with me on Monday 23rd.

Please remember to look at the live calendar to check what is happening and when.

And finally....

"The need for instant gratification is keeping you out of shape and unhealthy....

We've become conditioned to want everything NOW and our bodies do not work that way.... Your phone works that way. Amazon Prime and Deliveroo. But your body? Not so much - your physiology doesn't care how quickly you want things. It works on it's own schedule."

This is something I have banged on about this year, not having worded it in quite such an eloquent way.

Whatever your goals are, slow and steady leads to success. Just keep turning up and slowly it becomes more than a fad or a quick fix but a lifestyle choice that will be habit and therefor sustainable.

What goals are you going to set for 2025? Maybe a check in each quarter or a monthly reflect on progress.. slow and steady wins the race.

Have a great weekend and see you Sunday - I have set 2 alarms already incase I forget x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 48. My fairy lights fiasco and when I nearly drowned

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 22:14:29 GMT

(For upcoming class info, please scroll to bottom of page)

My Fairy lights fiasco and when I nearly drowned. Nothing whatsoever do to with Pilates.

Two things happened this week that led me to choose what to chat about. Storm Bert hit us hard and knocked us for six and the other day, someone very kindly said to me that they always admire how organised and seemingly capable I am…

The story below is totally true and has absolutely nothing to do with fitness, health or exercise.

Back in distant times, I was living in my lovely cottage in a rural area outside Lymington. It was mid December and I was looking forward to both my daughters returning from University for Christmas and I wanted everything to be perfect for their arrival. The house was decorated, the firewood was stocked up, the fridge was full, the wrapping was done and all was well.

We had a large apple tree in the garden near the front hedge and I decided it needed to be wrapped in fairy lights for the final touch. Have you ever tried to do this?

Don’t.

Every job leads to another so first of all, I decided to clear some hedge trimmings and other bits and bobs and started a modest bonfire. Except there was something flammable on the ground and the fire spread quite quickly to the 15ft hedge between me and my neighbours - quite the loveliest, kindest people on earth. I might have shouted an expletive. Clearly one of the lovely neighbours was in the garden.

“Everything alright over there Juliet?”

“All fine here Simon, thank you!” - God FORBID I bother someone and ask for help.

I ran to a shed to find something to beat the fire with and as I opened the door, a rat the size of a Shetland pony jumped up in front of me. I screamed.

“Everything ok over there Juliet?”

“All fine here Simon - thank you". Couldn’t possibly ask for help…

Fortunately Panda, my serial killer Jack Russel was on the case and launched himself through the air, caught hold of and killed the rat before they both hit the floor. George my kind and gentle Labrador then picked it up with his “oh so soft, not a single bite mark” mouth and carried it thoughtfully to deposit at the back door so I may have the pleasure of admiring the kill later. (I do find it fascinating that despite having never worked my dogs, it is so deeply ingrained - the terrier hunts and kills and the retriever - well, he retrieves!)

That little drama over, I spied a rake. This was a true French and Saunders meets Miranda moment and I know you are ahead of me here.. yes, with spectacular fashion, I stepped on the rake end and the pole flew up and whacked me between the eyes. I howled.

“Everything ok over there Juliet?”

“All fine Simon. Thank you.” Ask for help? Me?

Rubbing my rapidly swelling nose, I successfully beat the fire, soaked the hedge with my garden hose and all was well.

Back to the fairy lights. I had bought 3 miles of the blessed things and had them looped, lasso style around one shoulder with a small ladder under the other arm. I propped my ladder against the tree, climbed up and painstakingly wrapped a couple of layers before climbing down, moving the ladder, climbing back up and repeating the process.

This went on for about 10 mins before I started to get a bit bored. This was clearly going to take FOR EVER. Now before you jump to conclusions, yes, I had checked the lights worked - haha, I am not THAT stupid… but up and down the ladder was really laborious and I was getting frustrated so I decided to try a different tactic. Getting a big armful, I threw it at the tree, trotted around pulling it through in different places and it sort of worked quite well actually. Until it didn’t.

Somewhat predictably, it ended up getting tangled in the branches. Big sigh - I got out the big, grown up ladder and climbed up to sort it out. A patient and sensible person would then climb down, move the ladder and climb back up again, repeating as required but I wanted this job done NOW so I just reached, and reached and reeeeeeeeeeeeeached… (cue the intro music to Casualty) and as I reached the branch, the ladder fell down. So did I. Only my jumper was caught in the branches and I (quite brilliantly) slid upside down leaving my jumper and t shirt caught in the tree and found myself sitting on the ground in my jeans and bra, letting out a big “oof”

Everything ok over there Juliet?

YES YES, absolutely fine Simon. Thank you.” Ask for help? Bit late now.

Apart from my nose and rake gate, I was completely unhurt, got dressed and with a fair amount of huffing and puffing, finished the job and let me tell you, that tree looked spectacular. George, Panda, the corpse of a rat by the back door and I were able to stand back and admire my handiwork with such pride, supported by a couple of texts later that evening from friends driving past who ooo’d and aaah’d and much admiration from my lovely neighbours.

I had THE BEST fairy lights display in the village.

Until I didn’t..

I don’t know if you recall the Winter storms of 2012. They were pretty epic. I had 24 hours of magnificent garden lights before the storm blew in. I was lying in bed, listening to the howling wind and rattling windows, the banging of gates somewhere and creaking trees,

Was I thinking of the tiles blowing off the roof or the fences blowing down or the huge old Oak tree falling onto the house? Of course not. I was thinking with some despair only of those lights.

If you are interested, taking broken and totally unrepairable lights down from a tree is far easier and much quicker than putting them up, especially if you are in a bit of a temper and take a few branches with them. Added to my own personal drama was the fact that after so much rain, lots of trees came down taking power lines with them and so we and all the surrounding villages between Beaulieu and Lymington went into a 10 day power cut, taking us right through Christmas and out the other side. It was all very Larkrise to Candleford as for miles across the forest, we were in a candle lit blackout, staying huddled around fires while the multitudes of freezers stocked for Christmas quietly thawed.

So on to Christmas Eve a couple of days later. A local friend who I dog walked with had a really good idea. “Let’s go and see that how bad that little stream is that has burst it’s banks and is running like a mad, dangerous torrent into the Solent” said she. “What a good idea” agreed I “we can take all our dogs down that tiny, hardly known path that guarantees should anything happen to us, it will be months before we are found.”

What could possibly go wrong?

Well, let tell you. The stream was indeed a raging torrent and as we stepped gingerly down the narrow path, the elderly Labrador my friend was looking after slipped and fell into the very deep water.

My next act was one of the most stupid of my life. I jumped in. Did not stop to take off large coat and Wellington boots. Just jumped right in. Please never, ever be as stupid as me.

As the dog climbed swiftly out, further down on the other side and started snuffing about, I was swept off my feet and down the river. While my friend ran (yes, ran - that was the speed of it all) alongside me, I was swept seawards. I had absolutely no say in where I was going, I could not stop myself while thinking how after all my efforts with the fairy lights, now I was going to drown on Christmas Eve and what an inconvenience that was going to be. .

Fortunately the stream narrowed due to a fallen tree which I grabbed hold of and we both dragged me out. Not an easy task fully clothed and wearing wellies! We just sat there in total shock for a while before tipping out the water from my boots and walking home discussing what a fool I was and what a stupid idea it had been.

When I got back, my eldest was in the kitchen making tea on our gas camping stove - (power cut - I already told you).

“Rosie - I was in the river and I nearly drowned” I cried, quite wobbly and emotional. Ever her mother’s daughter, she glanced me up and down and said “but you didn’t though, did you”.

(On that evening’s news was a report of a man who did drown that day doing exactly the same thing while his dog survived. Thank you Universe)

To conclude - my Mother told me many, many times, if you ever need to get a job done, call Juliet. However, while capable, I am also the most stupid person I know!

(N.b. my lovely neighbours still tell me how much they miss me and how it has never been as entertaining since…. )

Sunday stocking fillers

Clare and I have been discussing who has been naughty or nice, making lists and checking them twice and we bring to you

The Sunday Stocking fillers.

Sundays 9am leading up to Christmas.

Clare starts proceedings this Sunday 1st December at 9am for a 30 min class. I follow next week, Clare the week after and you have me for the last pre Christmas Sunday. All details will be in your calendar; (psst - glitter, reindeer horns, Christmas t shirts, bauble earrings... we expect no less)

You are WELCOME.

You will see that my website has had a refreshing facelift and I am delighted with it! If you are new to the site you will find clearer info on what we get up to and if you are a regular member I hope you find the membership area a little easier to navigate. There are always a few minor teething problems as my site is live and active with access to the library and calendar so thank you members for the odd hiccough and thank you Becky for the super job!!

Monthly challenge.

I will be posting on "the gram" on Sunday morning and also putting a short recording up in the library for our December challenge. Don't forget to have a look.

I cannot WAiT to see so many of you next Thursday for our third annual Christmas lunch. I know that many of you are travelling from far and wide as well as our more local members and I really look forward to a wonderful get together. To give me time to get turned around there will be ONE class on Thursday 08.30am to blend the two together.

Christmas T shirts are here!

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 17:19:10 GMT

My Christmas T shirts are here. I am terribly pleased with myself as I designed these as Christmas cards a couple of years ago and now we have the splendid T shirt version!

They come in "skinny fit" and are available in other colours. Taking the colour of the text into account, we suggest navy, pale blue, white or pale pink.

As a guide, S - 8 - 10, M - 10-12 , L - 12 - 14 , Xl - 14 - 16.

Straight tees are also available which are a little more generous in sizing.

A mere steal at £17!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 47. How was it for you?

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 21:55:06 GMT

(Scroll to bottom for what's coming up next week!)

How was it for you?

At the end of a week that has seen glorious sunshine, proper snow and Leonard getting back on a bike after all these years (The Archers....what could possibly go wrong), I ask "How was it for you?"

I am going to challenge you now and ask you - why do you exercise? This isn't a test or a trick but is a genuine question that I ask you to ask yourself. There is no right or wrong reply but I think sometimes it helps to dig a little deeper and connect with that inner voice that first sent you to participate in whatever your choice of exercise is.

There is a popular belief that we often start exercise to change the way we look but we keep exercising because of the way it makes us FEEL.

Maybe you love how exercise makes you feel and always have. Perhaps you come because your friend does and you enjoy sharing that with her. Maybe it is the only time away from all the chaos of life and you enjoy your "me time". Possibly you know that this is an essential part of your life to help you be the best version of you.

Do you come to classes because "you feel you ought to"? That is fine and a perfectly common reply but I would push a little further and ask why you feel you ought to? Is it your health? your weight? advice from a medical professional or friend or because everyone else does it so you think you should? This is one of the most common reasons for lacing up the trainers or un rolling your mat but if you can scrape off a few more layers, perhaps you will find you get so much more out of it by asking yourself why YOU think you should be turning up. Get to know your own personal reasons and you are far more likely to stay with it.

How was it for you? Next time you finish your class or walk or run, take a minute to think about that - how do you feel? What has it done for you?

One of my many favourite client lightbulb moments has been when, after I have taken the trouble to prescribe specific exercise/stretch/mobility moves the individual comes back and says "You know that exercise program you gave me? do you know what? I think it has actually helped" and this is always said with some element of surprise and always amuses me as though I too, will be amazed.

As we slide towards a time of year that is busy, often stressful and hectic and possibly a little overwhelming; a time when we may feel pulled in many different directions or that we are struggling to meet expectations of others but often of our own doing, our exercise time can SO EASILY be sacrificed for "more important" tasks because "there isn't time".

So I ask you again - why do you exercise? If it is to help manage your achey joints, feel stronger, feel calmer in mind and spirit, to give you time to respect and value you own needs, to manage your weight, to have time out from everything else, to manage your mental health, to keep up your energy levels, to meet up with friends and have the social benefits, to keep some semblance of routine and structure, to build strength and tone, to feel great..... why o why o why would this be the thing you sacrifice when it is most needed?

I KNOW how busy it all gets but I also know (believe me, do I know!!) how quickly one skipped class becomes a week becomes pushed into the corner becomes the elephant in the room sometime in January... Who doesn't want to celebrate with good food and drink and parties?

Of course this is par for the course and quite rightly so.... and I am not here to nag and preach, but to make some suggestions as to how we can make some subtle adjustments so that the last 11.5 months of turning up, working out, feeling great does not vanish in a puff of smoke up the chimney with the last echoes of Ho Ho Ho!

Rich food, alcohol, delicious snacks, late nights - FABULOUS! However if unchecked can lead to inflammation (achey joints), overloaded liver (poor sleep), weight gain (just... big sigh) so let's consider some simple steps to keep our exercise where it belongs - as part of our lifestyle and not a fad or a quick fix. That way we are so much more likely to keep it in our lives.

I talked last week about motivation and the need to just keep turning up.

(Doing your exercise when you are totally lacking motivation is a huge win as that shows you that it is indeed a well formed lifestyle habit so well done! )

Don't worry about a full hour or sticking to 4 x a week. Be realistic. 15 mins with some weights or on the mat is done and dusted before the mince pies are ready to come out of the oven. A brisk walk is great to share with family (or escape them!) while someone else empties the dishwasher.

By the time everyone has agreed on which Christmas movie to watch, you could have knocked out 10 squats, 10 lunges, 10 shoulder presses, 10 bicep curls and 5 roll downs. Set the alarm just 15 mins earlier for a quick fix before the day starts?

Totally exhausted at teatime? Can you find a quiet space for just 10 minutes for some deep breathing and stretching. You are not letting yourself down by not doing a weights or Pilates class. You are winning by still making time for you and what you need and getting on your mat.

It doesn't have to be about how much you work out but that you continue to show up for you and just check in. Move, breathe, stretch,

psst - you have The Snack bar for some support and Clare and I are planning some Stocking Fillers too... watch this space. We are here for you!!

It makes such a difference if you know WHY you do it. Many years ago, I had picked my daughters up from school and needed some milk. I pulled up on Lymington High Street and parked outside Tesco (this was over 20 years ago!!) and said to my girls aged then around 8 and 6 "Just wait in the car. There is no need for you to come. I am literally going to run in, turn round and run straight back out again" to which my youngest became helpless with laughter - "what a funny thing to do Mummy - why are you going to do that?".... a very fair point!

Some rather chilly, snowy donkeys in yesterday's snow!

Finally... do you have some flakey people in your life? Maybe now is time to exfoliate them away!! Remember - our friends can be drains or radiators... stay away from the drains....

Have a great weekend everyone. Jx .

Weekly Wrap up. Week 46. Knowledge versus Wisdom (and what's coming up next week)

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 18:41:17 GMT

(Scroll to bottom for what's coming up next week!)

Knowledge V Wisdom

We have masses of knowledge around us. Possibly too much. If I keep it to my industry, then we all KNOW that exercise is good for us. We all KNOW that we need to eat well, get lots of water and sleep, cut back on processed foods. This we KNOW. There are magazines, radio programs, books, podcasts, tv documentaries - social media is saturated with this. We have no need for more knowledge. You do not need to work in the health and fitness industry to know this because it is being shouted from every rooftop.

Now, wisdom is a whole different ball game. Wisdom is to fully absorb and live the knowledge. Wisdom is the embodiment of knowledge.

What on earth am I going on about? Well, let me make it personal to me.

I know that I need to exercise regularly and eat well. If I don't (and there have been plenty of times) then the anxiety, low mood and all that boring stuff is knocking at the door, all too ready to barge right back into my life. If I let my routine go too askew, I lose my coordinates and very quickly go off course. I know this because I have experienced it. For me, exercise is essential to keep me feeling calm and sound of mind, strong of body and to give me purpose and direction. I have the wisdom to make this part of my lifestyle because for me it is essential for my well being as I have experienced the disastrous of the alternative.

"No-one ever regretted a work out"

I know that if I am feeling low, down in the dumps, sluggish - I need to pick up my weights or get on my bike or my mat and EVERY SINGLE TIME without fail, I feel better even after a quick 20 mins. We all do. FACT. We know this!!

So for me, it is lifestyle. I talked last week about the importance of "just turning up" - so if I have planned a workout at 5pm and at 4.45pm I am making excuses in my head or I feel tired, I now have the commitment to still go to my mat and do something even if it isn't what I originally planned because I need to turn up and honour that commitment. I have the wisdom to know that if I skip a session I promised myself, things will quickly slide.

As you know, I used to be fitness manager for Jason Vale on his Juicy retreats. A week of green juice, masses of exercise and positive support. Guests lose LOADS of weight and feel amazing. - better than ever done. Taking away all the junk food gave guests the most incredible boost and lots of people made life changing decisions as a result of feeling so energised and strong.

The most common question I am always asked about this is "when I stop juicing, won't I put all the weight back on?" and the answer is YES, you definitely, 100% will IF you go right back to your old habits and lifestyle. However why would you? You now have the wisdom - you have experienced how a clean diet and regular exercise makes you feel fantastic so why on earth would you not continue (obviously I don't mean you have to live on green juice and live up a mountain in the sunshine but you know what I mean - it is about balance).

When we did our 7am challenge a few weeks ago, so many of you messaged me to say how productive you felt - you were setting your alarms an hour early, getting in a 30 min workout but also getting other tasks ticked off before it was even properly light and that you felt energised throughout the day. You embodied the knowledge of why an early morning exercise session is so beneficial - why a quick 30 mins before the rest of the house wakes up can really work.... from here, it is about making it realistic and sustainable. Look at how you can make it fit into your diary and stick to it - you have the wisdom to appreciate why it is an essential part of your life, now you need to make it a long term, life habit.

I made a decision earlier this year to make some life changes. I was deeply unhappy for lots of reasons and had to take some responsibility. No one else was going to do it for me. As Mel Robbins kept saying to me in my podcasts - "no-one is coming. You have to do it yourself"

I have put in 8 months of clean living. Eating really well, going to bed early, lifting weights ( a lot), cycling, walking, lots of stretching and mobility, masses of Pilates, reading and listening to podcasts and practising simple mediation : bringing in protein powder and electrolytes and daily green juices. I am still alcohol free and drinking lots of water... . EIGHT MONTHS.

What have I discovered? That at 56 years old, this is the strongest I have ever felt physically and mentally, that I am committed to feeling this way and that, once again I love getting on my mat. What else have I learned recently? That everyone wants my success but very few want my journey! It didn't happen overnight and there is no short cut. There can't be because these are longterm lifestyle choices but I have the wisdom to know that the benefits far, far outweigh the sacrifices.. for me, at least!

That is where I salute so many of you who absolutely know this . You turn up class after class, week after week. When I had to cancel last week, so many of you messaged to tell me you were using the library. You were not going to miss your workout just because I had an emergency.

You have all taken steps to make sure you fit regular exercise into your busy lives and you stick to it and I absolutely love that about you all. There are a lot out there who have excuses and reasons why not but there are far more of you who shut up, turn up and work out and I love you!

"Everyone wants the view from the top but only a few make the climb to get there!"

WE WANT MEN

Calling everyone local to Lymington. Please encourage the men in your life to take advantage of this super evening at The Arches next Friday. An expert consultant urologist and a very modest but unbelievably experienced head physio responsible for keeping premiere league footballers healthy and match fit for over 20 years, in addition to a local Personal Trainer - all this under one roof and available to you for support and guidance, Please call The Arches for more info and don't forget I pop up in the Serenity Saturdays.

Have a great weekend everyone. Jx .

Weekly Wrap up. Week 45. 2024. Consistency is key!

Thu, 07 Nov 2024 20:25:32 GMT

There are many positives about running your own business and being your own boss. However, there are some unavoidable bumps in the road from time to time. One of those for me was finding my beloved Labrador Bertie collapsed last night which caused me angst for more than one reason. Firstly and of course most importantly was Bertie's health but immediately I was faced with what was going to happen for everyone who was expecting to join one of 2 classes in the morning while I had to step away and deal with the immediate issue.

It has taken me many, many (many, many!!) years to have the confidence to choose to prioritise me (or in this case, Bertie) and on this occasion I cancelled classes in order to take Bertie to the vet.( I will have to add to our list of functional exercises, picking up and carrying a 38kg Labrador out of the house and into my van.)

However we are a community and support each other and that was demonstrated very much by a) me worrying so much about letting everyone down and looking at where I can add the missed classes back in as catch up's and b) the many lovely kind messages I have received throughout the day offering care and support. Thank you very much for that. It is truly valued. Bertie has had excellent care and the next few days will tell us more. Seadown Vets are just up the road from me and have taken the very best care of me and my fur family for decades.

So.... back to the title of "Consistency is key"... although I think this links in. We all know that in order to get results we need to repeat and repeat again whatever our end goal is. I have lost count of the amount of times people say to me "I have never been able to do xxxx" to which I ask how many times they practise and the answer is always.. never! In which case... what do we expect?

When I was teaching students for their Pilates and Gym instructor exams, one of my favourite quotes with regards to preparing for their practicals was "practise until you get it right and then practise until you cannot get it wrong."

In order to improve, we need to keep turning up. Consistency is the game changer.

There are any number of reasons why we can excuse ourselves and skip a class or training session and I can assure you, I am an expert on this. Despite popular myth, I am not a machine and there are many times I am lying in bed thinking that an extra hour under the duvet is FAR preferable to getting up to do exercise. When we do override the negative voice though and turn up - those are the sessions about which we feel the most virtuous or feel we have really achieved. I know I do. Powering on through the negative voice and turning up and doing it - those are the biggest wins. Having the self discipline to get on that mat despite really not feeling like it... that is the biggest success! What happens on the mat is secondary.... getting there when you really don't feel like it - that is achievement.

The real key is to make it habit - make it a part of our lifestyle so that it is just "what we do". Why wait until Monday or January or until the holidays are over or we have more time or after we have finished painting the hall or once we have finally tidied the loft? Those things will ALWAYS be there and we will be able to add more and more tasks. We know this.

One thing us "onliners" have discussed when we get together is the community spirit we feel online and I really do treasure this. We have all been meeting up multiple mornings a week FOR YEARS and really know and care about each other. It isn't just about the exercise - it is a part of our routine on one or more mornings a week. Getting up, setting up, meeting up and working out. It has become just part of our daily routine. This is what makes taking part so much easier - you know where you are, what to expect and it fits into your daily life, without you having to think about carving out the time.

What is important however is not to lose momentum. Isn't it easy to skip a class because you are too busy or going on holiday and that one class quickly becomes 2 classes to a week and before you know it, rather than your regular habit, it has slid to the back of the pile. From here, it takes SO MUCH more effort to start again and pick it up.

In order to keep moving forwards, just keep turning up. Easy to say? I have days (doing my own training) when the high intensity or weights session I had planned just seems too much and I want to skip. Never more so than now as there are bugs and sniffles and dark mornings and energy levels can dip.

However I have learned through experience to still get onto the mat at the allocated time but I will do a stretch session or even some simple meditation and breath work.

Before, I would have definitely just avoided it altogether but I have found out how beneficial it is just to keep turning up.

I may not be doing what I had originally planned but I am still keeping to the plan - keeping that time for me and not quickly filling it with other things that are queuing up to take over. Skip that one session and it is incredibly easy to lose that routine.

I know what we are like. We think "oh what is the point, if I am not doing much, what will I get out of it?" ... but if we turn up we are still getting some mind body connection, being accountable, sticking to the plan..... just doing half as much, and taking our time will still tick all the aforementioned boxes and we get to leave our mat feeling we have at least "done something"...even if it is a 10 min stretch. If you are not up to doing that tough abs class or do not have time to do a full hour then 15 mins stretch and mobility is still ticking the box and is achieving so much more than avoiding it altogether.

No-one ever regretted the workout they did. Don't let the avoidance become habit.

After the day I have had (writing this on Thursday), I can promise you that my cosy sofa is very appealing but I am now going to practise what I preach and I am heading to my mat for some gentle stretch and breath work. It isn't the tough Pilates sequences class I had planned for 8am or the Back Care work I was teaching at 9am but it will take me out of my head for half an hour, stretch me out, relax me and will keep me on the straight and narrow before Shetland on Iplayer and choccy biccies win the day and talk me out of it.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 44. 2024. Galloping Gretl

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 23:12:37 GMT

I am a dog person. No doubt. I mean, I love all animals and horses were my raison d'etre for decades but dogs are my true love.

One of the earliest stories is of me as a small toddler found missing from my bed. An "extensive search" was launched (which I highly doubt. Knowing my mother there would have been an eye roll, a large sigh and a casual, brief glance about at best. One of my brothers while still only at crawling stage was found missing once and located some half an hour later, squealing with joy, sitting on the roof tiles of our 2 story house at the top of a ladder my father had left propped up against the wall. At 20 months old, I broke my leg. Unobserved we have to assume. I had crawled up the steps of the slide, gone down backwards while managing to lodge one leg into the metal rails at the side so while I set off down the slide, my leg stayed put. The best part of this is that whenever my mother recounted the story of how she "had to entertain me for hours until the plaster cast dried", she always did so in a "Honestly, Juliet was SUCH a nuisance" type of way. She was 24 when she had me and I was the youngest of 4. We can only assume she was a little "over it all" and somewhat nonplussed with childcare by this time. So, "extensive search" is said with some doubt... )

Anyway, after the "extensive search" I was located in the dog bed with my arms wrapped tightly around Sally our beautiful German Shepherd with little Velvet, our Sealyham terrier tucked in behind, all of us fast asleep. Things have not changed much and I have never been without canine company since.

In my world, the best breed of dog is RESCUE and I have been blessed with many, many much adored rescue friends over the years.

I was listending to Supervet Noel Fitzpatrick the other day ( I met him at Carfest and he is honestly as lovely as he seems) and he said that dog lovers often give the love to their dogs that they are not able to give to themselves. Yup- I totally get that.. but that dogs give back that love ten fold over. Unconditional, total and immeasurable.

3 years ago this Christmas, I was looking at dog charities. We were still in a sort of lockdown so long distance travel was not an option but I located a sad looking little Jack Russell (with a side order of Daschund) being fostered in Midhurst.

I brought her home on December 27th. She had lived her entire life in a cage on a puppy farm churning out litter after litter. She was thin, scared and completely overwhelmed but clung to me. She was shaking and just didn't know what to do with herself so I sat with her on the sofa with the ever tolerant Bertie at my feet.

I put on the tv and as it was Christmas, The Sound of Music was on. She was totally mesmerised and thus gained her name - Gretl (Von Trapp).

Fast forward and thanks to Bertie the magnificent being totally unfazed and me being well used to anxious rescues, Gretl has found her way and is quite the sassy miss but it has taken time. Out walking she would not let me out of her sight and would always stay so close to me that if I stopped she would frequently bump into me. This meant that she has only ever trotted with the very occasional canter as she she has never let me get far away.

Until now...

I rarely look for my dogs as they are always so close (possibly a risk here of climbing ladders or slides?) and a couple of months ago I glanced back to see...... no Gretl. This was a first and I was slightly worried when suddenly she appeared from round the corner and she was galloping. Full pelt, ears flapping, totally airborne with every stride galloping. The thing that truly melted my heart was the look of pure joy on her face. She continued past me, turned round and galloped back and so was born Galloping Gretl. It is now her favourite thing and is to be enjoyed at every possible opportunity and believe me, the joy on her little face is something to behold. She gallops away, she gallops back, she gallops over puddles, she leans into corners and those little 3" legs explode with a new found power.

Why am I telling you this?

Well, because Gretl is 10. That means that in dog years, she is 70.

Galloping Gretl is 70 and despite a hideous 6 years of caged life, neglect and abuse, she has put her total trust into me not leaving her and she has discovered the joy and liberation of galloping. I find it utterly humbling. With 3" legs but the heart of a lion.

So my point is, as always that age is just a number - a reference to the amount of times we have passed the sun. That it is never too late to start. Also though, just the freedom to be gained in letting go of stuff and finding joy in the simple pleasures. I always relate it to exercise but not today. This time I ask us all to consider what we can do that is simple but makes us smile or even laugh, be it kicking the piles of fallen leaves, dancing in the Kitchen, singing to the radio..... maybe remembering how much we enjoyed art at school and finding a local class or learning a musical instrument just for the heck of it.

Hanging on to the burden gets really heavy and you simply cannot gallop when you are carrying baggage - you will forever only trot,

Just have the courage of Galloping Gretl to let go - cast off the doubts. the insecurities, let go of what was and lets allow ourselves to be joyful and embrace the fun.

Remember - the more we care about ourselves, the more we can care about others. The happier we feel, the more happiness we can share.

A quote that I wish was mine..... "Whatever you do today, do it with the confidence of a 4 year old wearing a Batman T shirt."

Weekly Wrap up. Week 43. 2024. Special offers, 48 CLASSES FOR £45 and a Thank you!

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 19:17:59 GMT

It is FOUR AND A HALF YEARS since I moved my business online.

Can you believe that?! 4 1/2 years from that dreadful Monday evening when Boris made his statement to lock us all up. 4 1/2 years since I stayed up with no sleep and a lot of adrenaline for 2 nights and 3 days, sitting at the breakfast bar in my kitchen, drinking a lot of tea and shedding quite a few tears and expletives, learning how to set up payment platforms, membership platforms, how to edit my own website, record and edit classes, how to store recordings, what video program to use, how to use Zoom, what microphones and external cameras to use...It still makes me shiver, just thinking about that time.

WHAT a long way we have all come.

I'll be honest. I had become a bit stale and was worn down with driving up hill and down dale (that's a Yorkshire saying - it's almost totally flat around here but I thought it added some theatre to the story) from one venue to another. I was starting to think about the "what next" options. Despite being asked many times over the years, I have never wanted to take on a commercial premises so what was I do to next? Maybe it was time for a total career change. Maybe I would even park up what limited common sense I had and go back to working with horses. Yes, I did give this serious thought... but then this coincided with a deeply unhappy time in my life and some"running away from it all" was also in play.

Then as we approached what we knew was on the cards and I was faced with losing almost 2 decades of hard work I became passionately protective of my business and was determined to keep it going. Hence not going to bed for 3 days and though I say so myself, I am very, very proud of turning it all around in a week and being one of the first to be up online and teaching.

6 weeks of live classes every single day, totally free on Facebook and Instagram live- those were exhausting days but we had HUGE classes, beaming all over the world and my goodness, did it teach me a lot very quickly. Friends and family could connect from different continents and work out together and we had people joining from midnight to midday their time. There are some wonderful memories from those experiences and I honestly treasure them.

Oh those early days of Zoom!! When none of us had a clue about mute, who could hear what... and the amount of people with me 4 years down the line who were "absolutely not doing online thank you".... my favourite story from those days is "Granny" doing a video call to her grandkids in Australia and telling them that as her wifi was playing up, she was hot spotting from her mobile, and mirroring their stunned expressions onto her tv screen!! Serious kudos to Granny on that one!!

Bertie the magnificent Labrador made regular appearances, sitting in front of the camera, or coming for a cuddle and knocking me off my roller mid class, and I ate my stress and unhappiness and became the fattest I have ever, ever been. A wonderful irony given that I was suddenly on such a big platform and being seen in homes all over the place. As my audience grew, so too did my worry about letting everyone down which sent me scurrying off to bury my head in the biscuit tin and as there's a Tesco express a mere somersault from my house, I was doomed.

We had The November challenge where I linked up with fellow local women in business (see photo above) and we did events live every day, We had an online "wear a hat" party, we had classes around The Olympics (lockdown version), the Jubilee, the Coronation, we celebrated the NHS.....we had guest teachers and speakers....we had socially distanced classes in the forest being attacked by donkeys and we have celebrated new babies, puppies, weddings, house moves.... we have discussed where to source hard to find wall paper, holiday tips and have shared so much as we have slowly built our online community and seen it grow year on year. I honestly cannot tell you the pride I feel in what we have achieved together.

True friendships have formed and the ease and convenience of being online continues. It really is a way of life for us now. However, while we appreciate that side of things (and the fact that I can work and you can join from anywhere in the world and you now have access to 8 classes for the same price you used to pay for one), the social side of things is so very important.

We have had walks and pub lunches, jolly's to London, we have been to Kefalonia to visit one of our members there and France to visit our member there (psst - Madrid and Hong Kong - watch out!) to name just a few events and this means so much to me.

Last year we had our second annual Christmas lunch which saw nearly 40 of us get together. Several of you travelled from far flung destinations on trains and motorways and it was a time of immense joy and pride for me, not least when some who were nervous about not knowing anyone, left telling me how many new friends they had made.

When I went home, I just sat on my sofa, looking at my cards and reflecting on the day and how much it had meant to me and all the wonderful things that had been said.

I would like you to know that that was a turning point for me. Things are not always as they seem and I have been running on empty for quite some time (well, and a fxxk load of biscuits!!) but that was a very special time that I reflect on regularly. Just what we have achieved and how far we have come and what we have created. So thank you all. I honestly treasure you more than you could imagine.

That is why I am always looking at new ideas, new challenges and how to keep it fresh, current and entertaining so..... here goes... non members this involves you too

STRENGTH, MOBILITY, FULL BODY STRETCH, MAT PILATES, FUNCTIONAL WEIGHTS. 48 CLASSES FOR £45

I hate to be the one to use the C word BUT…. With just a few weeks to go, I have decided to dig deep and put up some more challenges to help us focus and see out the year stronger, fitter and determined to be sleeveless for the whole of Christmas just to show off our toned arms.

If you are already a subscribed member, you will have access to ALL this but if you are not yet online with me, please read below and see how you can join us for a special, early pre Black Friday, pre Boxing Day sales price just in time to finish the year.

I am a bit nervous as I have only just started to recover from the extra classes the other week (or to be honest, all the prep. behind it!) but hey!! Friends who workout together stay together and I know how much we are all going to benefit. So here goes.

The 6 week Christmas strength challenge.

Each Tues and Fri, I will deliver a strength class, built around the same format. Each week the class will be recorded and go straight into the library and I ask you to attend the class and then repeat the class on demand twice more that week before we have a new class the following week (Of course, if you cannot attend live, you can just access on demand but the key is to repeat x 3 times)

Tues 9am and Fri 8am starting Nov 8th. 6 weeks - all details will follow to subscribed members in the live calendar.

The Technique clinic. Thursdays 8am.

Working through Nov - All those moves that seem very complicated or that you just cant “get” - as well as finding out why your neck aches when you curl up, why you cant roll up from lying, how to open those shoulders for roll over - that type of thing. Let me have your requests and let's really nail some of those tricky ones.

THE 34 MOVES

It’s time! We are building up… in Dec., we will have part 1 on Tues 10th 8am, part 2 on Thurs 12th 8am and alll the way through on Tues 17th 8am . Put it in your diary! You know you love it and WHAT a way to wrap up all our hard work.

The Back clinic.

Thursdays 9am through NOV.

Addressing those common back problems -let's have a look at all the different ways we can improve our spines and how we move them. Let me have specific concerns or issues to work with. Bring all your props and let’s get smiley spines.

Finally where would we be without The 12 Moves of Christmas …. It never gets any easier and you will be required to wear sparkles but we LOVE it…. more of that in due course.

New in the library is this week's Functional Strength class. .. using weights to help us live well, strong and independently. This class includes lying on the floor to reach under the sofa, chopping wood (I don't know - you might!), Golf swings, doing up the top of a zip, undoing the bottom of the zip, lifting heavy bags, lifting heavy weights to do an overhead throw into a skip (it will make sense when you do it), putting luggage into an overhead locker, getting up and down from a low seat, lifting a heavy wheelbarrow, digging in the garden.... and lots more. Check it out in the "Mixed ability" collection.

In the meantime.....

Remember .... 7 days of no exercise makes one weak......

Im off for a few days next week. Updates and all class info in live calendar and see you for challenges, clinics and more w/c Nov 4 xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 42. 2024. Feeling poorly so apologies for very short post

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:55:50 GMT

This week was going to be all about the social side of our online community but please allow me to carry over to next week as I have been knocked off my feet with whatever is currently doing the rounds and have downed tools for a couple of days.

In the meantime.....

In the words of the one and only Hyacinth Bucket.... "If there is one thing I cannot stand, it is snobbery and one upmanship. People who try to pretend they are superior. Makes is so much harder for those of us who really are.

Have a great weekend all,

Weekly Wrap up. Week 41. 2024. So why DO we need to lift weights?

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 19:05:08 GMT

So why do we need to lift weights?

Why should we lift weights? What are the gains?

Health reasons.

Here are just a few…

Improved balance and coordination, increased energy levels, improved sleep, stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoperosis, independent living into older age, reduced muscle loss, improved self confidence, helping weight management, improved mobility, better proprioception, increased metabolic rate, reduced blood pressure, improved self discipline, reduced inflammation, better posture, reduced risk of high blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 Diabetes …..

Aesthetics

How do you look? If we don’t feel confident about ourselves it can have a massive knock on effect throughout so many other areas and reduce our confidence at work, socially and in relationships. It may lead us to avoiding social situations and lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Feeling strong physically helps us feel strong emotionally and mentally and being able to move freely and take part in sports, activities and having more energy all contribute to a happier and healthier mind. Looking good helps us feel good which in turn helps us feel happier so we want to do more and so the circle continues.

So how does it make bones stronger?

Well, under load or resistance the muscles pull against the bones. This causes “osteo blasts” when the bones grow more dense. Resistance work puts the muscles under more load to pull even more against the bones.

“When your muscles pull on your bones, it gives them work to do. Your bones will respond by renewing themselves. This maintains or improves their strength. As your muscles get stronger, they will pull harder. This means your bones are more likely to get stronger.” - Royal Osteoporosis society.

But how do muscles get bigger?

Bit gross here but when you feel that burn, that is the muscle fibres tearing or suffering trauma but the good news is that then they grow back and they grow in even more multiples (hypertrophy) hence becoming bigger and stronger.

Sarcopnia or muscle loss can occur with ageing and lack of movement and we all know about the risk of reduced bone density. Low mood or depression, lack of energy, always catching every bug that is doing the rounds, dull skin and hair…..Why on earth would we not do everything we can to prevent this and look forward to a healthy independent life when we have options and can take action?

A quote I really love is “Better to be the oldest person in the gym than the youngest person in the nursing home”.

The problem is that it takes time and discipline and we often find we don’t have much of either. Maybe starting really small and expecting less is more realistic. Maybe just start with one week. See what you can fit in that helps you move more but is realistic to fit in around your life, then slowly build on that until it becomes a habit and something that you want to do,

There is a difference between knowledge and wisdom and this is a wonderful topic that I am going to write more about in another blog but basically, we have masses of knowledge everywhere we look with regard to the WHY but truly embracing it and believing in the wisdom takes a bit more investment. We need to see and feel results before we fully commit and that may very well take a bit longer than the standardcooling off period but when the polls come in and you see some wins, that sense of achievement is just the best.

The October 5 day Challenge

The 5 day October challenge

WOW!! I mean WOW! I am absolutely blown away with how many of you turned up day after day. We averaged 45 people a day and it was just fantastic to see so many new faces and welcome people who I have never worked with before.

I was so nervous on Monday morning, as I had no idea how many of you would actually join, I was not in my home studio and was SO worried about the wifi and it being light enough for you to see me! I need not have worried - we had 56 attendees on Monday, the Wifi behaved, the dogs behaved and all was well. During the week, we have been joined from Qatar, Hong Kong, Mallorca, Kefalonia, Marseille, the Dordogne, Madrid and all around the UK and I am just delighted.

I have tried to be as varied as possible over the 5 classes to give you an opportunity to see how much we get up to and it is all recorded and will be finding it’s way to your email inboxes in the next few days.

If 7am works for you, get in touch as it is something I am looking at, moving forward.

Remember

“A mistake repeated more than once is a decision.” Paulo Cohello.

“If you are not changing it, you are choosing it” - unknown.

Have a great weekend all,

Weekly Wrap Up. Week 40. 2024. Excuses, excuses...

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 17:29:38 GMT

"Are you insane? What time? What on earth made you do that? You're on your own with that one"....

are just a few of the comments I have received this last week. May I point out that no, I have not suggested I attempt to climb Mount Everest wearing nothing but a bikini and flip flops, nor have I proposed I travel from John O Groates to Lands End doing star jumps and cartwheels. No dear gentle reader, I have suggested a little challenge that requires 30 minutes of exercise each weekday morning for one week at 7am.

5 days and a total of 2.5 hours.

I am the Queen of excuses and believe me, I can talk myself into and out of all sorts of things but it also means I can spot an excuse from 20 paces and will try my best to derail it before it gathers too much speed.

While I would never level your feedback/comments as "excuses"..... I thought I would play out a few of the more familiar "reasons" and perhaps suggest a few counter offers and, well if the cap fits, then you can wear it and possibly either reconsider or feel more emboldened/inspired/motivated to join us.

Time - (yawn).... Of course you have time. We all do. If you honestly, honestly don't have time, I challenge you to a different option for 5 days. Every time you use your screen for anything other than work or research related topics (in other words, mindless scrolling), or stare at pointless tv because you can't be bothered to change the channel, or stare into space because you can't be bothered to complete the task in hand..... or any other pointless things that we all do, write it down and how long you spent. Add up all that time at the end of the week - it is really sobering, believe me. That is time that you could/still can use to invest in your health and well-being.

I have to get the family ready for the day - If your children are toddler sized and will eat the toilet cleaner if you turn your back, then I totally hear you. Otherwise - really? How about you bring the kids into the challenge? The night before, put the breakfast things out, get your mat and screen wherever you are going to use them and get ready whatever you are going to wear. Explain to everyone how important this is to you for just one week. I am sure for 5 days they can butter their own toast and pop their plates in the sink, if you let them feel involved in something that matters to you or even join you for a bit of it!

I feel self conscious - will everyone be watching me on screen? - Highly unlikely unless you are taking the class!! That's my problem. I mean, to be honest you can show up in your pyjamas with mad hair (and you do and I love that you do!).

I have to at least be reasonably presentable... Joking aside though, while you are welcome to join in "gallery" mode for the pre class chats, once the class starts, I advise you to put your screen to "speaker", I mute the whole class anyway and as we are recording the 5 days, I will "pin" me which means that you can only see me.

N.b. - I can still see you though just incase you thought once the class has started you can slink off!

I don't do mornings. - Fair enough. I hear you. My challenge is that you try for 5 days. May I just toss a few pointers in your direction though?

Are you a poor sleeper? Are you trying to lose weight? Do you have poor concentration? Mindless snacking happens in the evening, not the morning. Get up earlier, go to bed earlier and you will very, very probably reduce your calorie intake. Going to bed late can play havoc with our circadian rhythms (look it up, don't have time to discuss atm) and there are any number of studies to show that lying in once we are awake can have a negative impact on our mood and energy levels. I can talk for England on this topic but the fact is that if you get up with your alarm, you have already achieved, are being productive and being busy occupies our mind and stops negativity. A short workout will massively improve our mind and energy levels and set us up of the day.

What we do has a FAR bigger impact on how we feel than how we feel impacts what we do . In other words, (and to quote the mighty Arnie Schwawarghvxvxghgtht) "don't overthink it. Prepare the night before and get out of bed, get dressed and start your exercise before you have time to talk yourself out of it." (Please read that last sentence in a strong, fierce American/Austrian accent).

What if I am not fit enough or can't keep up? - Well lying in bed won't make you fitter, will it!! Seriously though, I will always offer layers, adaptations, options and anyway what is the worst that can happen? You skip a few repetitions. That is fine - you are still turning up, getting involved, trying your best and in 30 mins, you have done a lot more than you may otherwise have done and that is so satisfying and such an empowering way to start the day.

p.s. - it is a 30 mins mixed ability mat class. We are not taking part in SAS Who Dares Wins, (which, incidentally is not the same as DIY SOS which I muddled it up with recently although to be fair that is also a marathon of sorts but with hard hats and paintbrushes).

I don't do online - I totally respect that and it is not for everyone but the idea of next week is ease, convenience and a personal push out of the comfort zone. You are not signing your life away. Who knows - you may end up like all my many, many other "I don't do online'ers" who are still with me years later.

My wifi is rubbish - hmmm. Bad luck. Can't help you there. Move house?

When that alarm goes off, you may very well wish you had never agreed (as will I.... ) but I ABSOLUTELY GUARANTEE you, at 7.30am, you will be so pleased with yourself and that sense of achievement is absolutely priceless.

Why not tag on a couple of other options for the week? Try and start every day with a pint of warm water and lemon, ditch the alcohol and/or caffeine for the 5 days? try to eat more fresh veg and step away from sugar? Just a suggestion,... it is only 5 days after all!!

Have you heard the term "drains and radiators"? You may have that friend who, despite how much you may care about them, is a drain. You always come away from spending time with them feeling tired, low, emotionally wrung out and defeated. Then there are the radiators. Friends who warm and nourish you, inspire and motivate you, make you laugh and feel better whenever you are with them.

Exercise is our radiator. Whatever form it takes, it will make us have more energy, feel more positive, lift our mood and help us feel better about ourselves.

Poor diet, alcohol, processed food, lack of exercise - these are all drains that leave us feeling sluggish, low, reduce our self confidence and motivation....

If we are really down about something, or have a huge problem that is causing us angst, then pushing ourselves physically will almost always give our mind a rest from it. We cannot push ourselves running, cycling, lifting weights, burning those abs and still be dwelling on that problem - our brain just can't do it. It has to focus on the physical challenge and then, once we have finished our workout, even if the problem is still there, we have at least had a rest from it and can come back to it with a fresh mind, having had some time out from that nagging.

It is the same principle as ice baths and cold water swimming, where the water is so cold, the brain has to focus on body temperature and managing breath and has to park up all the white noise and monkey chatter, which is why this activity is also recognised for dramatically helping lift our mood and improve mental health but it requires towels, ice and is a bit more faffy than what I propose for next week.

I will freely admit to anyone who is interested that the main reason I exercise is for my mental health. If I have to stop exercising, my mood can start to slide very quickly so as always, I talk from my heart on this one.

Random mention

Do you know why we find bird song so relaxing? There is research around the fact that this is an evolutionary mechanism whereby we feel safe when birds are singing as they will only sing when there is no threat or danger, and when the bird song stops, we will immediately sense the silence and prepare for fight or flight.

Might I suggest your earlier than usual alarm next week is a gentle bird song rather than a shrill bell or honking horn that is far too aggressive a wake up!

Sat 12th October walk and pub lunch. I have emailed everyone who has replied so if you were hoping to join us and haven't heard from me, please let me know asap as Clare is kindly booking the table and planning the walk. There will be a group doing a shorter walk if that suits better.

And finally…

SLOW DOWN

When you are arguing

When you are making decisions

When you are going for a walk

When you are making your morning coffee

When you need to make a valid point

When you are trying to get somewhere

When you are trying to explain yourself

When you are waiting for the page to load

When you walk through the front door

SLOW DOWN

Have a great weekend warriors, and see you Monday.

Weekly Wrap Up. Week 39. 2024. Turning up the heat in October and things are not always as they seem.

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 15:58:23 GMT

I managed to dodge the downpours last Sunday and along with the company of 3 dogs, went to watch my nephews playing rugby. I have always enjoyed being on the touchline and during their school careers, never missed a single match of either of my daughters. I vividly remember walking past a rugby match the year my eldest went up to senior school and being so grateful that I had daughters as the boys were smashing into each ohther with St John's ambulances on the sidelines... totally inappropriate and hypocritical of course as both I and offspring have had our own share of A&E sporting related dramas over the years.

It reminded me of the time I went to watch a school hockey tournament. My daughter was goalie and I was used to seeing her kitted out like a Ninja Mutant Hero turtle, hidden somewhere behind several layers of padding. On this occasion, it was a big tournament over several pitches and I was cheering and supporting the goalie for a good 10 minutes before a man walked over and said "excuse me - but that's my daughter"... I looked him up and down and as he didn't look remotely familiar, decided it was safe to assume we didnt share her and slunk off to the next pitch where the one that belonged to me was just staring at me and to be fair, despite full face helmet and the rest, managed a quiet shake of her head and eye roll.. yup... the same mother who hadn't recognised the PM in Cornwall.

My point being that things are not always as they seem. What we assume can sometimes turn out to very different and it pays to keep an open mind. I have worked with people over the years who are very much cardio/endurance focused and who have approached Pilates with some hesitation (much as I did when I first started), only to be staggered at how hard they worked (just as I did!!). Likewise those who insist that "they will be rubbish/not fit/cant do it" and have surprised and delighted themselves at what they have achieved. It is not always as it seems and sometimes keeping an open mind helps us to gain so much more.

I think it is fair to say that we are all guilty of expecting more of ourselves than is sometimes reasonable and possibly overlooking what we have actually accomplished. Let's talk exercise. If you are the high intensity type of fan, then you may very well surprise yourself with how hard you are challenged by doing something like Pilates that takes you slower and deeper than some of the cardio work. Maybe your energy levels are running low and you opt instead for some breath practise or meditation - this is totally the right thing to do. Either which way, despite your training plan or fitness expectations, skipping the odd session and substituting with something slower, quieter and more gentle will almost certainly give you more gain.

It is not dissimilar to our social life - sometimes we feel like painting the town red, sometimes we are looking forward to a lively dinner party and sometimes (most of the time in my case) we opt for a quiet night in on the sofa. It has taken me YEARS to realise that it is ok to say no thank you, Im staying home without feeling "I should/ought/must do".... If I don't go out and do that thing, I am missing out, I am being boring, I am letting someone down, I am letting me down, I am not making an effort... yet by choosing what might appear to be the boring/lazy/cop out option, I am actually achieving so much more. Learning to listen to our inner voice, and learning to be honest with ourselves is a very powerful lesson. Sometimes doing less is to achieve so much more. It may not appear to be what we need but then things are not always as they seem!

A couple of years ago, I searched for other Juliet Nicholas's on instagram and started following my namesake who is a horticulturist. For the next six months, I had a shock every time I saw a post of plants and flowers on "my" page, thinking "what ON EARTH is that doing there??".... things are not always as they seem!!

Here endeth the lesson!

Sat 12th October walk and pub lunch. I have emailed everyone who has replied so if you were hoping to join us and haven't heard from me, please let me know asap as Clare is kindly booking the table and planning the walk. There will be a group doing a shorter walk if that suits better.

And finally…

Two posts from this week that totally sum up what I preach endlessly .....

Muscles are the ultimate status symbol. They cannot be bought, inherited or faked. They can only be earned. In a world obsessed with instant gratification and immediate results, building a strong body takes patience, practise and consistent effort.

"Hey! Are you training for a bikini/summer holiday body?"..."Hell NO - I am training for an old lady body - dense bones, strong muscles, a healthy heart, good balance and functional independence"

Amen! Have a fabulous weekend

Weekly Wrap Up. Week 38. 2024. Priorities, priorities!

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 18:44:48 GMT

What is more important?

I recently put up a post on "the gram" that got a lot of feedback and so I thought I would discuss it further.

People are quick to spend money on new clothes, a car, holidays... we can juggle and budget to make sure we can afford or justify the cost of our dream kitchen or get those must see theatre tickets... less so our health and wellness. How many think that the gym is an expense they can do without? that a personal trainer is a luxury they do not need, that going to see a physio or nutritionist is something that they cannot feel is worth paying for?

However, what is the point of all those luxuries without our health and a strong body to enjoy them with? No-one (as far as I am aware) was ever quoted as saying from their deathbed "if only I had redecorated the lounge"....

We all have an inbuilt bargaining chip but as the saying goes - "there's none so easy to delude as oneself".

Be honest - how often have you put off getting up to stretch or move, because you "have" to finish these emails even though you know your back/neck/hips/knees will grumble later. How often have you skipped a class or training session because you are "too busy"? - I am including myself here and isn't it bonkers!! We can happily justify to ourselves that on this occasion, time or budget does not allow... but where are our priorities? How can we be too busy to take best care of ourselves? How can we find the cost of a new sofa but not a few exercise classes?

We know that jumping up and down or walking in the fresh air or lifting weights or dancing or playing tennis or just moving for 30 mins will make us feel so much better both in the immediate aftermath as we feel more energised, positive and calmer in our minds but also longer term as we nourish our bodies and maintain that regular practise. Seriously, how can we think that we cannot afford to pay for the gym or classes, or exercise equipment but we can happily spend on other luxuries - what greater luxury than our health?

A friend in a class called it "B list "gains -A list gains give you immediate pleasure whereas perhaps in your exercise or training session, you may not enjoy it here and now but the gains further down the line are more than worth it!

I had a really wonky day this Tuesday. One of those "if it can go wrong, it will" days and by teatime I was in an absolutely foul mood. I couldn't justify walking the dogs as they had been out and dear old Bertie is getting a little stiff and can't do too much, I was staying away from weights as my shoulders have been really painful and actually I just wanted to lie on the sofa, watch some totally mindless tv and wallow in grumpiness. I looked at my bike and actually said a few very wonky, foul mood words at it before digging deep (believe me, I had to dig deep) and committing to a ride.

Tuesday was a stunning evening if you remember, and I promised myself I would only go far enough into the challenge to ride out my bad temper and not push myself. Anyway, the upshot was that, as I knew very well would be the case, by the time I got home, I was calm, reflective, positive and able to stop on the way and spend several minutes trying to capture the incredible moon. The photos are rubbish but I was able to stop and appreciate. So I promise you I really do talk from the heart and from my own personal experience. Get out, get moving and feel better.

A little levity did help me on my way. I decided I needed a destination so chose to cycle to my brother's house in Lymington just to say hi.

Please picture my appearance. I was lycra'd up - helmet, clip in shoes, padded shorts, wrap around glasses... and my 15 year old nephew wanders out of the lounge to ask "did you cycle here?.....as I teased him about his academic genius, his twin brother came down the stairs and asked "did you cycle here? - I was tempted to say no, I had just popped to Waitrose!!

I also went to the physio (The Arches, naturally) on Wednesday and got some superb treatment and some practise work to do at home to get my shoulders working better (and a few ideas to sneak into classes - I absolutely LOVE talking shop with experts in the industry).

My point being - I do walk the walk so I do talk from the heart.

Maybe we all need to consider our priorities a little more and remember that if we are 'too busy" or cannot justify the cost to do the very things that keep us strong, mobile, healthy and sound of mind then perhaps we should have another look at how we are managing our time and budget.

Remember, when it comes to taking care of yourself -

It's never too late

You're never too old

Never let anyone talk you out of it or tell you that you can't

TEACH ON THE BEACH

Thank you September for this wonderful sunny, weather to top us up. It has been fantastic to be back teaching classes on the beach and seeing lots of you in person. Thank you to those of you joining online for bearing with us as I know if is not as clear for you as when I teach in my studio but there is something so wholesome about being outside and feeling the sun.

Tuesday and Thursday 8am and 9am - we will keep going until we can't. Bring layers for when it cools but if you are local'ish, do come and join us.

Want to know more? get in touch for all class details.

And finally…

Life is amazing. And then it is awful. And then it's amazing again. And in between the amazing and the awful is the ordinary and the boring and the mundane and the routine.

Breathe in the amazing - hold on through the awful, and relax and exhale during the ordinary.

That is just living heartbreaking, soul healing, amazing, awful, ordinary life. And it is breathtakingly beautiful. (anon)

Hang in there and have a great weekend.

Weekly Wrap Up. Week 37. 2024. September reset

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 22:22:10 GMT

September is the new January

It's great to be back. Really! I think most of us need some sort of routine and structure and I most certainly do. I'm hitting this September hard and I am bringing you with me. You know that September is the new January? Why choose the start of the year for resolutions? It's dark, cold, miserable.. we feel post Christmas blues and a new resolution in January can very swiftly fall by the wayside.

September! This is the time to roll up our sleeves and take on new tasks. We have packed away the bbq and the garden cushions, kids are back at school which means it's safe to to go out for a coffee or visit the supermarket but the days are still reasonably long and it is still fairly warm. This is our new term - really we ought to have all done a selfie of ourselves outside our front door in our new "back to class" get up but maybe next year... but let's look at this as the start of our new school year - so much opportunity, so many things we can achieve... and just under 16 weeks of the year left. What can you take up or give up to be a healthier, fitter, stronger, happier better version of you? 16 weeks is a super time frame to consider starting slowly, but knowing that with consistency and. commitment, by the end of 2024, that new habit will be firmly established and will no longer be an effort but will be a part of routine. Why not set yourself the challenge to see the year out even stronger or fitter than when you welcomed it in?

Let me have your ideas - I am genuinely interested and completely support you. My goal is to get out on my bike, come rain, snow or blow (Yorkshire saying) and I have a distance I really want to achieve before I wave goodbye to 2024. I will let you know how I get on. It's my own personal little "thing"!

New in the library this week.

Pilates with weights - mixed ability

Barre inspired workout - Clare's class

Some back to basics foundations - All levels.

Please note I am working through the library and removing lots of old content so if there are any classes of over a year old that you particularly like, this is your final call.

Talking final calls - I sent out some dates for the rest of this year for social jollies. If you have not received them and are interested, please let me know.

And finally…

Don't underestimate the power of doing really simple things consistently over a long period of time.

Walking, sleeping, resting, eating protein and fresh vegetables, drinking water, getting sunshine and fresh air, laughing with people you love - they may not get likes on instagram but they work. Start today!

Have a good weekend and go on - start something today!

Weekly Wrap Up. Week 35. 2024. Carfest and Imposter Syndrome.

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 18:12:17 GMT

Carfest 2024!

On the week that we hear Oasis is reforming… as we go in search of bucket hats and Parkers and middle aged men across the country cut their fringes weirdly short and grow in their sideburns, it’s a hello from me in a very sunny Pembrokeshire where I am having a well deserved few days away from it all with the essentials - camper van, two dogs, walking boots and a pile of books. Absolute bliss!

Carfest!

Well what a fantastic few days we all had. I think the name is misleading and as Chris Evans (who created and runs it) becomes ever more health and wellness focused, so too does the festival which saw me spending most of my time listening to talks from the likes of Dr. Rangan Chaterjee, Kirsty Gallagher, Dr Louise Newson, and Megan Rossi to name but just a few. Plus Tim Peake, Noel Fitzpatrick, Deborah Meaden… the list goes on!

I will be referencing things I learned from the talks I attended as we go along- we can all buy the books, listen to the podcasts, watch the programs but is always seems much more powerful when you are there in person hearing first hand. Mind you, I was busy typing notes on my phone in one group talk and looked up to see Megan Rossi staring at me and I was mortified - I sort of wanted to jump up and say “no, listen - I am writing notes, I am not what’s apping my friends… I am storing your wonderful words of wisdom!!!”….

My camping booking was changed at the last minute. No problem but having had a lot of emailing back and forth to confirm what was what, I decided to just check what the set up was as I had my enormous sized tent (attaches to the side of my camper and makes life a lot easier). I couldnt reach my “girl on the site” so referred to the website where it stated “no gazebos, no windbreakers etc” so I dutifully removed all the tent paraphernalia from my van, deciding to the embrace the cosy challenge of sharing a very small space with my good friend Vanessa who was arriving the following day. My contact did call me back when I was on the M3 and was very vague and really not sure so I decided not to risk it and continued on my way.

Well… let’s just say that on arrival it became clear that I was the only rule abider and I was the only, I repeat ONLY van who did not have an entire canvas village attached… I honesty did contemplate turning around and going home for it, but if you can recall the hurricane of last Thursday, I decided to be grateful not to have that wrestle and instead tried to work though my sense of betrayal and loss.

I was absolutely thrilled to teach my classes in the studio at “Spa fest” where a timetable of events ran over the 3 days. I was delighted to have huge turn outs for both classes with my twin nephews and Lou as my guests of honour who very loyally joined my Sunday class - thank you!

In spectacular fashion, I mixed my times up, arriving impressively early for my first class and nearly bursting a gasket as I charged across the site when I realised my error for my second… I should have been more than aware - I had been screen shotting all the different talks and events I wanted to attend that day and had sent to Lou who was coming on the Sunday and she rather pointedly sent back a screen shot of “Juliet’s Pilates 2.00pm” which clashed with a talk I had planned on attending… ah yes, that small detail!

We had “The hay bales” talks where an astronaut and a space man chatted together (Tim Peake and Sam Ryder) and were fully emboldened, inspired and warrior like after so many empowering talks from a huge range of presenters.

As a “performer”, I got access to The Green Room and The VIP Guest bar where I enjoyed some major imposter syndrome as people asked me what talks I was doing or what books I had out… well, you never know…. Watch this space

Chris tends to encourage anyone who is a guest on his radio show to come along “and do a slot” so I brushed shoulders with “Trent Crim” ( have you heard the rumours about a possible season 4??) Vassos of course and Andy Ramage but oh my, oh my, oh my… to have a chat and a selfie with Uncle Bryn!! Rob Brydon is part of the Carfest family and is always there, and never fails to entertain. Uncle Bryn tho!!!! Someone did ask him just what did happen on "that fishing trip" but he swears he does not know!

I must admit I was disappointed in two performers (Scouting for Girls and Sam Ryder) who asked for a chance to get their breath back between songs. Really boys, you need to seriously raise your game! We all know as I have mentioned previously that our Tay Tay goes through her entire set while running on the treadmill in order to be fit - mind you... my brother and I were googling the singers from our teenage years to compare where we were!

There was, understandably a lot of chat about the power of social media and having had encouragement and input from a couple of people, it motivated me to start doing more video online content, so I started the day I got home. Dodgy home editing and definitely keeping the reels "real" but you have to start somewhere, right?! Have you any idea how absolutely terrifying it is to record and post on socials? I mean I am live online every working day but posting is a WHOLE different ball game… this is where you are exposed and open to critique and really putting yourself out there. I have had so many teachers I worked with, approach me about this and how to start it so I jokingly said to one that I would lead by example - that set me up didn't it! I have no choice now!

There will be no weekly wrap up next week.

I am posting on socials so find me there but the laptop is now closing… when I was chatting to Dr. Rangan Chaterjee (wink, wink - see how I slipped that in - he is SO tall… my ex husband was 6’4’.. actually he probably still is, and RC is definitely taller)… annnwayyyyy, I commented on how commendable it was that he goes fully off radar for 4 weeks, staying off all social media etc… “oh yes”, says I…” I will delete my socials Apps and my work email apps’…. “Well done" says he “That will really enhance your time away blah blah”… "oh yes" says I "I was so inspired....." - well that was a load of rubbish as you can see!! It is a work in progress so I am posting this, doing a couple more recordings (consistency is key, don’t you know) and then the laptop really is closing as I do my very best to switch off for just a week… hmmmm….

I saw a great post yesterday that said “one of the best things about running your own business is you get to choose which 80 hours a week you work”

I am however stuck into a blood thirsty Patricia Cornwell crime thriller except unfortunately the 2 victims of a gruesome murder were camping... slightly unfortunate choice of reading as I am in my van in the middle of nowhere!!

And finally…

Just one this week…

A bad attitude is like a flat tyre. You can't go anywhere until you change it!

See you on socials soon and in classes from 9th.

Have a great week and toodle pip x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 34.2024. One year alcohol free and Carfest

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 06:19:44 GMT

One year (and a day) alcohol free and Carfest!

By the time you are reading this, I will have completed my first year and be onto day one of my second year alcohol free.

I have learned a lot about being a non drinker over the last year, not least how common it is becoming. Virgin Radio's Chris Evans is now alcohol free (and about 4 months ahead of me) and he has many guests on his radio show who talk abut having made the choice to give up drinking. This has been an inspiration and I feel it is very apt that I celebrate my anniversary on the very day I arrive at Carfest (Chris's festival) to set up and enjoy my time here.

I have learned that there is a difference in the language used. Being sober or sobriety is linked more to having done the 12 steps and getting to the bottom of why you drink whereas alchohol free refers more to a life choice. I have made a life choice but it has also given me cause to think long and hard about my habits and behaviours.

What has fascinated me is peoples' reactions to me. While most are really supportive and impressed, there are those who feel the need to start to justify what and how much they drink (which is none of my business and is only their concern) or the odd one who really wants to see me have "just that one glass?"!

Yes I am proud of myself and thought I would cover some of the questions I am typically asked and in their usual order...

Yes I do feel better. Loads better. I don't do moderation so I have never been a "one glass will do"
No, I didn't see a big change to my weight but then I have also made other life changes that I attribute my weight and fitness to far more.
No, I don't miss it. Not at all but again, I am an all or nothing so once I am in the "nothing" mode, I am totally committed.
What do I drink instead? If I go out, I may now have a glass of non alco wine or lager (these days, there is so much choice and some of it is really good) but otherwise, I am happy with sparkling water and at home I just tend to have a cup of tea!! Yes I would pay £15/18 for a non alcoholic bottle of gin. With a few chunks of ice in a nice glass and a good mixer, it is the theatre of preparation and being able to enjoy a "posh" drink but staying AF.
I have no idea if I will stay AF. I. have not set a time limit but having been one year in, and not missing it in any way at all, why would I start again? What gains would I get?
The strangest one - don't I miss a glass of Champagne on NYE or a good glass of wine with dinner? Can't I just have that one glass? My answer is "but I can have those things anyway but I choose to have the AF option. Why am I "missing out" if I don't include the alcohol". I do think our culture has slightly warped our attitude and thinking towards it.

Recently I hosted a friend for her birthday lunch and we shared an AF Prosecco. She said she felt a bit lightheaded and had to reassure herself she was fine to drive home as having the same taste in the same type of glass was so powerful. As I said, it is the theatre of it all as much as anything.

I remember the day I stopped vividly. Standing at an outdoor music event last summer, holding a glass of wine that I wasn't enjoying. I wondered why as I could drink wine like it's going out of fashion. Either which way, it seemed madness to continue drinking so I tipped it out on the grass and when I came home, I had a few days feeling unwell so clearly I had something lurking. I had some wine in the fridge that I poured down the sink and that was that. I have not had a drink since.

The two things that really hit home were as follows. Firstly for the first month or so, I was going CRAZY for sugar. Sitting on the sofa in the evening, I would suddenly be craving Diet Coke or wine gums or fruit pastels, none of which I have ever bothered about. I was a wine drinker, I was never bothered with spirits or beers and clearly I was suffering the sugar withdrawals.

Secondly, was the consistency of mood. Bearing in mind I was also heading into the menopause and the anxiety and irrational panic was a regular feature. I hadn't really considered this until I was getting ready for Christmas. I was going to be away travelling for nearly a month, had to sort presents to distribute before I left, organise my house and work and sort my dogs and found myself getting all upset and flustered and it hit me -I hadn't felt like this in absolutely ages. This was a perfectly just reason for feeling a bit stressed and anxious but it hit home just how little I now experienced this. Talking to my friends who are in the grip of menopause, "hangxiety" is a big thing that I too used to experience- waking up in the morning with a racing heart, feeling irrational anxiety is a common thing and I do not miss that one bit.

There was some thinking behind it for me. I have a lot of cancer in my family, the cause of the death of both my parents within a few weeks of each other the year before, as well as other relatives. I work in the health and fitness industry. I study, research and deliver all things geared to a healthier life and yet here I was, a total fraud. I could exercise and eat clean but what use if I was pouring toxins down my throat on a very regular basis. I was overweight, feeling very low and knew I had to make some life changes. There are no end of things that might "get me" but what madness would it be for me to fall ill or die from something I have total control over? The obesity crisis is something I cannot fathom as a drain on our medical resources and a wilful means to early death and binge drinking and excessive alcohol consumption carries such a massive health risk too. That was my thinking and the big kick that got me back on track.

I am absolutely NOT here to preach and you are free to live as you choose but if this blog has given you even a tiny bit of "I wonder", why not try just for a few days? So many people say to me "oh I don't really drink much at all" in which case why not try to stop entirely for just a week then? If you don't have much, what is stopping you? Why do we want to stop after Christmas/holiday/celebrations? Why do we choose alchohol to assist us in our celebrations?

Just thowing it out there!!

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 11TH. 12.30pm

End of summer lunch.

Thank you for all your replies and looks like we will have a lovely group. I will email nearer time but please do make sure you have contacted with your menu choice.

NEW RECORDINGS

New in the library this week are 2 classes. Functional strength and movement - how to continue into our senior years staying fully independent and capable so this class includes moves to help us do up the zip on the back of a dress, pick up a heavy wheelbarrow, put luggage overhead in the locker, get up and down from a low chair, balance going up and down stairs and more, using weights to build strength. Find this class in the "strength" collection, dated for your reference and at the top of the Iist under the first 2 warm ups.

A lot of Abs - rotation and lateral flexion so a lot of focus on technique around spinal movement to establish the difference between these two moves and getting a strong waist - (this one is a bit of a killer to be honest! I had a lot of messages the day after on this when we did it!! But is it safe and as always, I offer lots of levels to accommodate all abilities. Find this one in the "Mixed ability" collection,

NEXT WEEK

No live classes Monday and Friday and Clare will be taking all the classes Tues, Wed and Thursday.

And finally -

"The solution for anything is salt water - sweat, tears or the sea" - Isak Dinesen.

"Have you been kind today - ask yourself. Make kindness your daily Modus Operandi and change the world" - Annie Lennox.

You may not have everything you want but take time to be thankful for all the things you do not have that you would not want". - Bob Dylan

P.s. - my favourite one this week. Mushrooms can continue to grow in shit, and so can you!

Have a lovely weekend everyone.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 33.2024. Swanning around.

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 09:00:01 GMT

Become a Pilates teacher and join me in "Swanning around"

Swanning around. That is all I seem to do. Several people over the years have commented on what an easy life I lead, "swanning around" from class to class, wearing my favourite athletic wear and just teaching exercises to people. They are absolutely right of course. That is quite literally all I do.

Fortunately for me, I also have a handy group of elves who live in the cupboard under my stairs and when I am finished swanning and tucked up in bed, out they pop to do bookkeeping and accounts management, plan and write classes, research and development of industry changes, research on ideas for keeping the classes fresh and current, annual CPD management, taking care of all client emails and queries, website management, social media, business development, filming, editing and managing the video library, teacher trainer queries and sometimes if my luck is really in, they will run the hoover round and stick a wash on.

Beware! You may not be as fortunate as me and you may not have elves to do this. But do it, you must. So if you were perusing a swanning around type role that is as easy as mine, may I just draw your attention to a few points?

I spent several years working for a Fitness teacher training company, teaching the Level 3 and Level 4 Pilates qualification and have met many wonderful teachers, many I am still in touch with and several of whom still come to my classes. I could usually spot quite quickly who was going to succeed and in what way but there were the very few who did indeed believe that all they had to do was learn a few exercises, wear really fabulous leggings and that was that. I believe that rather worryingly, there are some very basic courses that do not require as much work and do not demand such a high standard and this has led to what is being recognised as a dilution of the true foundation of Pilates but more of that another time.

As a starter, before you do anything else, you are required to pass your level 3 in Anatomy and Physiology (A&P). This is about the equivalent of a GCSE so not to be sniffed at and a fair amount of work, which was quite a shock to some learners who honestly believed they could just skip that bit. As one student said to me - "seriously? SERIOUSLY? I have to learn all that s**t?".... "Yup you do" I replied " You have to learn a whole lot of other s**t too!"

(Before lockdown and various modules moving online, I had to deliver the A&P module and that really kept me on my toes!! Always a slightly nervous part of my course delivery!)

Just for the very basic qualification, you need to have passed your A&P, helping you to understand planes of movement, joint action and the different roles of the muscles as well as the cardio vascular system and circulation. We also go over special populations, common orthopaedic conditions, exercise for the older adult and children, general health and safety, safeguarding, basic business marketing and communication. That is before we get into teaching.

It has always slightly amused me how many new students do not want to stand up in front of the group and practise teaching, given that this a basic requirement of the job they are training for. We cover all the different teaching styles to accommodate the different learning styles of our participants, how to safely warm up and. prep, WHY to warm up and prep, how to safely cool down and stretch, WHY to cool down and stretch, all the different types of stretching, and different types of relaxation. We cover what is called Lateral thoracic breathing for Pilates and how to teach, and then we get into the original 34 exercises. How to teach them, adapt, modify, use props, break down, build up, link to other moves and fully understand how to deliver.

So there is a fair bit to it and it was the attitude to learning that gave me a clue as to who may succeed. If you are habitually late, with your coursework in total chaos, with no completed assignments but an armful of excuses, it does not fill me with confidence as to how you expect to run your business. If on the day of your final exam, you are again late, your written exam work is not put together properly, (or unfinished?) it does not suggest that your heart is truly in it, or you just think that you will wing it. Bad news - I have elves, you may not. Your competitors may have a far more professional approach and you will find success a lot more challenging. I always said that your approach to learning should be as your approach to running your business. Meet deadlines, complete work efficiently and be ready and prepared. How on earth else can you expect to succeed?

Mind you, I will always be the first to admit to being a total clot on many occasions. While the menopause seems to have me fully in it's grip I have forgotten on more than one occasion what we are doing, and this last week while I am house sitting for friends, have looked several times at the screen thinking "who on earth is that" as I see myself in an unfamiliar room!

When I started, I was the only Pilates teacher in Lymington the local New Forest. Can you believe that! Now, I can't count how many studios and freelance teachers there are so if you hope to succeed, you need to be very aware of what your competition is offering and how you are going to promote yourself to get business. I am very happy in sales and marketing so that side of things suits me but it may not suit you and your skills may shine elsewhere but without some self promotion you won't have any clients so again, this is something to consider. Where are you going to teach? Are you insured? Before you turn your double garage or lovely wooden garden office into a small studio, do you know that if you are teaching small groups at home, your house insurance does not cover you and you may also need to check with your local council ? what equipment do you have? How will people pay you? how will you run your classes - will they be PAYG or terms? Do you know you need a license to play music? Are your health questionnaires up to date? You know you also need to include an informed consent form? If you are in a public hall or room, is access safe and what security measures might you need to consider? Are you confident with who you can teach with regards to your qualifications? Are you committed to ongoing training to keep up with CPD? Do you have a website? So many students have said over the years that they don't do social media but without it, you are as good as invisible.

Believe me - the teaching part really is the easy part or at least is the fun (or swanning around) part. It is very easy to forget with any business, just how much work goes on behind the scenes. A quote I have used before is "You are not paying me for the hour I teach you but for the 20 years of work that has made me the teacher I am today".

I would never put anyone off having a career change and getting into this industry but do please stop and take a reality check as I have had so many students really quite shocked at the amount of theory work, paperwork and so on that is required before you do the fun part.

But it is fun! Most of the time, and there is always the Swanning around to look forward to.

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 11TH. 12.30pm

End of summer lunch.

I will email you all with details and hope to see as many as can make it.

I was chatting in class about this just this week - I have been watching America's Sweethearts on Netflix. Strangely addictive and very controversial with some strong debates online about exploitation.... in a far more shallow capacity, may I just ask a question? Having watched how unbelievably immaculate all the professional athletes were at the Olympics with full make-up and hair done, running, jumping and doing their thing while really sweaty and hot, and then AS where the cheerleaders are wearing SOOO much make-up in the Texan heat, dancing and shaking their pom poms - I ask you - how do they do it? Seriously, how do they do it? I occasionally chance it with a slick of mascara and 10 mins into the class, I look like Alice Cooper. Advice much appreciated!

And finally -

"Is the situation actually complicated or is it really quite straightforward but you are making it complicated because it requires courage to make the straightforward decision?" James Clear.

"I am thankful for the difficult people in my life. They have shown me exactly who I do not want to be".

Heraclitus.

Have a lovely weekend everyone.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 32.2024. Dedication's what you need!

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 22:02:27 GMT

'If you want to be the best, if you want to beat the rest, dedication's what you need'.

I remember Roy Castle singing those words at the end of every episode of The Record Breakers. I loved that program. Some jaw dropping, some defying the realms of possibilities and some just plain bonkers.

This last week, Basketball fans have highlighted comments from Australian Jack McVeigh. Famous for posting motivational quotes, this time he was the focus of criticism after he appeared to take a public swipe via Twitter against his wife. While she posted that he was so talented, he strongly objected and said "It's not talent, it's dedication." While possibly not tactful, I do get his point.

As I (like many of you) continue to watch every second I can of the Olympics, we only see the final performance. We don't get to see the 7 days a week early alarms, the training no matter what the weather, the missing out on family and friends' celebrations, the blood, sweat and tears. We sort of know about that but we don't really think about the boring, every single day, repetitive training that leads to the world stage. The many sacrifices and relentless work. As Usain Bolt said, "I trained for 4 years to run 9 seconds".

The training is so time consuming and that is what causes most lesser mortals to give up. In my own humble experiences of running and walking marathons and a few other bits and bobs, it was the training that took up so much time. Factoring in the actual physical training but also recovery and rest and then being tired and not feeling up to going out to see friends. I cannot even begin to imagine what it must be like to live like that, month after month. Be it sport, music, ballet.... the commitment to train and practise, no matter what.

I have read many, many sporting autobiographies and I am always fascinated by the behind the scenes stories. How they train, the fuelling and nutrition, the kit, managing injury and physical and emotional exhaustion and so on. So many are also holding down full time jobs or are students.

Helen Glover talked about how for her first Olympics training she would go to bed every afternoon for 2 hours sleep between training sessions but with small children that was just not an option for subsequent training. I have read Paula Radcliffe and Roger Federer also talk about the need for 10 hours sleep a night on top of afternoon naps- how do you do that if you are still holding down a job, doing a degree or so on?

These athletes are training 2 and maybe 3 times A DAY. Is it any wonder that so many fall by the wayside because they cannot sustain that pace and why we are now hearing more from world class athletes about the impact on their mental well being.

I read Matthew Pincent's autobiography years ago, about training for the Olympics while doing a degree. Getting up for rowing training often in the dark before going to lectures and then again rowing or in the gym in the evenings, missing weddings of best friends and family and nights in the pub with mates, in order to get that cherished Gold medal. He spoke about being pushed in training so that when they finished the time trial or whatever, falling off the indoor rowing machines and being physically sick. Frequently. Can you imagine pushing yourself to that state? I saw a post on social media about a prima ballerina who looked so absolutely perfect, immaculate and beautiful on stage. Then she shows you her bruised legs when she takes her tights off, her battered, taped and misshapen feet, the surgical tape across her shoulders under her leotard. That is the reality.

Andy Murray talked about the reality of being on the tour and away from home for over 40 weeks a year. Every year of his career. That is quite an extreme way of life.

I do find it fascinating however, to learn the different ways athletes, in particular, fine tune their performance. Michael Phelps trained 800m Butterfly once a week without goggles for the preparation of a goggles failure and in the 2008 Olympics, when his goggles did indeed fill with water, thanks to his training, he continued on his way to a new medal and a new world record despite no vision. Watchign the marathon open water swimming, the commentator was explaining how most of the competitors will train with blacked out goggles so that they learn to swim in dead straight lines for when vision is so limited.

During lockdown and with limited resources, Scott Lincoln, the nine times shot put British champion was seen pushing a truck up and down his street, over and over to keep up his strength and moving sideways into music, I read that in order to fully prepare her fitness for her global Era's tour, Taylor Swift sang through her entire set of songs while running on a treadmill daily.

Simone Biles trains for 32 hours a week with one day off. Dedication - that extra 1% that only a few possess. How many things in our life do we fob ourselves off by saying "Oh I could never do that" and yet, if we practised over and over daily... what on earth could we achieve! I'm not saying we give 32 hours a week or twice a day, but imagine if you committed to "that thing" and practised several times a week - but then you would need to really love "that thing" and really want the result too.

I copy a post here that I saw this week that I feel really sums it up- "Nothing derails people's fitness goals like their need for instant gratification. Our lifestyles and technology have us so conditioned that we want everything NOW - and our bodies do not work that way. Our phones do. Amazon Prime does. But our bodies? not so much. Our physiology does not care how quickly we want things. It works on it's own schedule but if we stay consistent (and patient) there is almost nothing our bodies cannot do" - Danny Matranga.

Mind you, it can also go very wrong. A hundred years ago, back in my very early days of show jumping, the international rider Caroline Bradley was local to our yard and was well known for her unbelievable drive. I saw myself as she regularly arrived at events in one lorry followed by a groom in a second. She competed all day on 10 horses or so and it was not unusual for her to drive back home, arriving late in the evening, to step out of one lorry, climb straight into another already prepped and ready and drive off across country for the next day's event. She tragically died of a heart attack at 37 years old while at the top of her game, paying the ultimate price. So determined to succeed and giving 100% every day and that is just not possible. A massive and tragic loss for someone so determined to be the best.

If you want to talk determination and what the body can acheive and never giving up and dedication then PLEASE do yourself a favour and watch NYAD (available on Netflix). One of the most inspiring true stories I have seen in a very long time not least because this isn't some twenty something athlete. Also note that to take part in this role, a 64 year old Annette Benning trained for a whole YEAR with an Olympic swimmer and her body certainly shows it. By the time of filming, she was conditioned sufficiently to swim up to 6 hours at a time! Again... if you want something enough.....

Slightly more light hearted but rather staggering - Did you read the post this week about GB athlete Jacob Fincham - Dukes who had to ask his boss for time off work - he says his boss asked why and he said "err - I need to take part in the long jump at the Olympics" and having made the final, says he needs to be back at work on Friday (today!)

HOW ON EARTH do you live like that? How do you come back down after that?!

I think us mere mortals tend to want the easy and quick option. Taking a pill rather than doing the rehab? I love the stories in the papers that scream out "I PROVED MY DOCTORS AND THE EXPERTS WRONG".... and while a recovery is of course absolutely wonderful, how many times can it be linked to a life overhaul such as changing diet, cutting out the toxic processed food and alcohol, losing weight, committing to the rehabilitation and so on. If we all actually DID what we were advised for improving that dodgy knee or malfunctioning shoulder, how much better would we be but often do we not do a few days, get bored and sort of rely on hoping things will get better. Over the years, I have often prescribed specific exercises and stretches to help with issues and I just love it when someone says "You know that exercise you advised I do? It actually worked!" - really? well, how about that!!

I always find it fascinating that as a generalisation, we prefer to pay someone else to knead and pull and push us better than to do our own rehab daily to prevent the need for that visit in the first place.

I shared on social media, a post from Novak Djokovic who in answer to a question about how athletes manage stress, talked about the importance of proper breath and being present. Simone Biles talks about her daily meditation and after well publicised mental health problems, Adam Peaty has become deeply religious. Dear Andrea Spendolini Sirieix became so emotional in her interview after her finals but she is just 19 years old. I could not believe that one of the "women" skateboarders is 11. ELEVEN! That just doesn't feel right to me.

Listen, if someone had stuck a microphone under my nose when I crawled over the finish line at last year's Moonwalk, I would have just sobbed probably. I most certainly would not have been able to give an interview! I was too busy looking for a cup of tea and some chocolate.

What about all the thousands of other athletes who are training and competing but just didn't make the team. You have to be so mentally strong to accept that and get up in the morning and keep pushing for the next challenge.

I wonder. I am not for a single moment taking away from these athletes incredible abilities but I do honestly think that it is the endless daily grind that sets them apart. Let's face it - I have been trying my best to keep us motivated and ticking over for a 6 week holiday season!! I have even offered exercise snacks of 10 mins and we all know that sense of "Ill start on Monday/after Christmas/next week/when the kids are back at school"... maybe that is why we are here and not in Paris!!

For me, that is what is so fascinating. The phycology and the mental stamina that sets them apart and enables them to just keep going.

Got to be honest though - just watching that race walking makes my hips hurt and I still don't get the BMX or the skateboarding! Bring in netball I say!

I find it so interesting, the different shapes and sizes of the athletes. Doesn't it go to show that with training, how we can change and fine tune our bodies? I mean, all the divers are a similar shape, the cyclists are so alike and so on. You can almost guess at some of the disciplines by the physiques of the participants. Give or take, it shows that if you train enough, you can really adapt your physical shape. (Not so sure about the teeeeeny, weeeeeeny little pants though... I think no matter what my shape was, I would be Bridget Jones pants all the way - got to say it's quite brave to run the 400m final in little more than dental floss)

I am a lifelong sports addict so this summer has been an absolute joy for me with the Euros, Wimbledon and now the Olympics but I always want to learn more. I have so enjoyed the commentary - how fabulous were the combo of Becky, Mark and Clare on the swimming? I really enjoy learning about the different sports and disciplines. I have also learned a few other things though, such as apparently a 51 year old man can be taken seriously while competing against children on a skateboard, and having a large penis can spoil your pole vault success. Who knew?

Of course it isn't just sport though. I remember the story about legendary violinist Isaac Stern. A keen fan accosted him after a concert and gushed "Oh my goodness, I would give my whole LIFE to be able to play like that".. "Madam" he spat out "That is exactly what I did"....

A little thought -

The information on the front of the food packaging is designed to sell the product.

The information on the back is designed to tell you the truth.

The unhealthiest people read the front of the packaging first.

The healthiest people read the back of the packet first.

And finally -

We don't stop moving because we grow old. We grow old because we stop moving.

Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes. That includes yourself.

Have a lovely weekend everyone.

Weekly Wrap up. Week 31. 2024. Away at the Show.

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 21:25:58 GMT

Weekly wrap up. Week 31. 2024

The New Forest Show week.

I have been away, playing hooky for a few days during what is one of my absolutely favourite weeks of the year. I love the New Forest Show and it has been a part of my life for my whole life. I remember walking round holding my mother's hand, already obsessing over the horses, I had a few minor appearances in the Prince Phillip mounted games teams before pushing my own children around in pushchairs and beyond. I still have a corn dolly standing in my office that my younger daughter made when she was very young and many, many memories.

We were standing ringside once, when my girls were around 6 and 8, watching the stunt riders. An elderly couple were chatting to my daughters as we watched the rider standing up on the back of a galloping horse, before leaping side to side to side over it's back and hanging upside down from it's neck. My eldest turned to the couple with a totally deadpan expression and with absolute conviction stated "We do all that at pony club"....

We had another time when my youngest aged around 6 or 7 was transfixed watching a portly, older gentleman take quite some time to set up his shooting stick, opening out the top and pushing it into the ground before slowly and with much deliberation, lowering himself down to sit. Unfortunately he missed and ended up flat on his back with his feet in the air and before I could even reach him to help him, youngest daughter gave a squeal, clapped her hands and said "That was so funny - could you do it again?"

I spent 10 years or more, standing for Naomi House Children's hospice and we had the year when the wind was so strong that we were all trying to stop the marquee blowing away and I had a very memorable year on the New Forest District council stand, as part or the team from the Recreation centre where I taught. Prince Edward was coming as our guest of honour and we were all on spinning bikes with the plan that we would all be pedalling full speed. We were in a marquee on a very hot day and he was running late. We were not allowed to get off and there were frequent shouts of "He's coming" and we would be madly pedalling again before being told it was a false alarm. When he did finally arrive, he came over to speak to me. I have a photo somewhere (can't for the life of me, find it atm) of me absolutely beetroot red, with sweat dripping off my nose, half collapsed off the bike after over one hour of spinning, while HRH comments on what a marvellous job we are doing...

Now I am part of a steward's team on the information and trade stands section. Can you believe there are over 500 volunteer stewards and we are all there because we love our New Forest, we love the show and we are all passionate about what we support.

To be fair, I have never been that passionate about directing people to Sandra's satins or advising of the timings on the bandstands and asking traders to get their vehicles off the showground before we open every morning can be tricky but I love every minute. I have had a week of 5.30am alarm calls and the only live Olympics I have seen thus far is the swimming in the evenings (and Andy Murray,... I know I was very tired last night, but I cried my eyes out, not least when Clare Balding cried too)!

On the Monday evening, around 8pm, before the show started on the Tuesday, I walked around the showground with Bertie and Gretl who had been there for the 3 set up days and it felt like Christmas Eve. The anticipation, everything spick and span and perfect, waiting for the onslaught.

We are there for emergencies (lots of faintings - the first two were very close together in front of the soft toys stand and I did wonder if perhaps the itmes were vastly over priced?) and answering queries and giving directions. Most people are charming and lovely but some are less polite and.. well.. my two favourite personal interactions are as follows -

Him - I want the dog show - is it in the canine area?

me - no, it's in the rabbit pavilion.

Him - really?

me - no. obviously not.

And...

Where are the pigs?

There aren't any pigs at the show

There aren't any pigs at the show?

No there aren't any pigs at the show.

No pigs?

(under breath - FFS) No, there are no pigs. We have horses, cows, sheep, poultry, rabbits, birds of prey, hounds, working dogs, ferrets...

But no pigs?

No, no pigs...

Any lamas?

My absolutely favourite closing memory is at the end of the last day, utterly exhausted. We were all sat around the table in front of our little hut and a man wandered over and demanded rudely to know where the nearest bar was. No-one managed to stand up and everyone pointed. It's just that everyone pointed in a different direction. So, so funny.

Another job is to distribute parcels. Stalls may get new stock delivered and we collect it in a buggy and it is driven around the ground to find it's relevant stall. It really brought it home to me, how beneficial our strength classes are. I was perfectly happy lifting and loading the boxes and was quite shocked at the lack of strength in so many people who struggled with the weight. The other thing that was really brought home sadly, was the obesity situation. Sitting watching Joe Public walk by and my goodness, we have a major obesity crisis. Not overweight, not plump but obese. We have to keep moving - make better food choices and keep moving. It really is very worrying.

One thing I would really like to share with you is the story of the Lumberjills. There is a vintage area for farming and last year we had a lovely Land Girls stand. This year I met Joanna Foat. She works for the Forestry Commission and discovered the story of the Lumberjills and before you ask who were they, that is exactly the point. Thanks to Joanna, their story is now heard and they were finally recognised.

In WW2, these amazing women - nurses, hairdressers and such like, were climbing and felling trees, chopping and logging. They had to learn this very complex and dangerous trade and learn it they did. Did you know that at the start of the war we imported over 95% of our wood and it was for this reason that the Forestry Commission was set up shortly after the war ended, in order to be better prepared. We were played an archive BBC clip where the commentator jovially remarks on how the women are now swinging axes where as before all the had swung "were their handbags".... there was one story of a lumberjack challenging the ability of a lumberjill - she took up the challenge and refused to give up and between them, going head to head, they felled ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY trees. In one day.

Thanks to Joanna, these ladies were finally recognised in 2008 by Gordon Brown but sadly the medals they were awarded were those of the Women's Land Army and not the two crossed axes and fir tree of the Lumberjillls but it was a start and since then, they have been documented on Women's hour, Countryfile and more. If you are interested, do buy the book "Lumberjills" by Joanna Foat.

Our very own Judy was in the Bees and Honey tent and I learned from her about the Asian hornet problem and why it is a risk for our bees. I will write about this and ask Judy to check before I share next week and how we can all help.

I finished the show watching the Heavy Horse drive and it always makes me well up... I just love the grace and the pride they show. As soon as I hear those familiar tunes, I get a lump in my throat.

What else?

The August Challenge is in the library and to support it, I am adding more bite sized, exercise snacks to the Snack bar in the library. There are lots of different options to choose from and include stretch, mobility and cool down as well as more challenge.

LIBRARY

The classes are loaded in the library in date order with the newest at the top. If there is a class you particularly like, I suggest you make a note of the date it was put up (as I know some of the class names are similar) and that way, you will be able to easily find your favourites. I hope this will make it much easier to work around.

Other stuff.

How amazing are our equestrians? 3 Day eventing GOLD, Showjumping GOLD.... (perhaps best not to mention the Dressage) and our wonderful rowers and isn't Alex Yee unstoppable.

After our wonderful divers, I am going to have get a bit more creative to include this as I am preparing my humble little Paris Olympics on the Mat class for Carfest and will be inviting you to join me for a practise run through soon!

I flicked the tv on to watch the games while I write this and all I had on offer was the BMX racing. I don't really have any more to say about that to be honest (apart from, I mean honestly, does anyone take it seriously? )

A post I saw and wanted to share with you..

Want stronger bones? Lift weights

Want a better physique? Lift weights.

Want to avoid type 2 Diabetes? Lift weights

Want a better mood? Lift weights

Want to protect your brain? lift weights

Want to burn fat? Lift weights

Want to be strong? Lift weights

Want to reduce inflammation? Lift weights

Want better balance? Lift weights

Want better posture? Lift weights.

Please note no live classes on Thursday. There are masses of new classes for you to choose from in the library.

Finally

When you are younger, it is easy to underestimate how fleeting the days can be. Each choice matters Each day matters.

When you are older, it is easy to underestimate how much opportunity you still have. Don't talk yourself out of it. It's never too late to start.

One of these weeks, I will finally learn to write our weekly wrap up before Friday but in the meantime here we are!

Have a wonderful weekend .

Weekly Wrap up. Week 30. 2024. It's the Olympics!

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:12:20 GMT

Weekly wrap up. Week 30. 2024

The Olympics is starting!!

Firstly, no you haven't missed a week. A trusty friend pointed out that I was a week out of sync. I couldnt work out what had happened but think that infuriatingly my "The one where I met the PM" somehow got deleted and I repeat ed week 24 again the following week... SO annoying!

Not a great start to the week. Went into the changing rooms at the spa where I teach and saw WHO I THOUGHT was a good friend, standing with her back to me, on the weighing scales. "Nooo, get off quickly before you break them" said I but sadly, it was a total stranger, who gave me the best glare ever.

What a fantastic Summer of sport! As we wave goodbye to the Euros and Wimbledon, we are going to be fully immersed over the next few weeks as we see the start of the Paris Olympics so what better time to think about staying motivated and moving?!

There is so much information everywhere we look advising us on how to live better, for longer and how to be more healthy. We know this. We know about exercise and excluding processed food and why movement makes us feel better and how bad stress is and how important sleep is. Do you find it a bit boring or just simply feel it is information overload or do you actually take it on board with a view to making some subtle life changes?

I am typing this today (Wednesday) on "International Self Care Day" and before you yawn and sigh and swipe to another page to read, please just stop and take a moment to consider this. We have all been through the safety briefings on a flight, where we are advised (in case of emergency) to put on our own oxygen mask before then helping others. That can be used metaphorically throughout life and as the last schools are breaking up and families may be descending, is this not the best time to consider some personal boundaries and taking some small but effective steps to take best care of ourselves?

I see the numbers in my classes drop off dramatically in August and with good reason. You are on holiday, you have family staying, you are the family staying, you do not need to get up early, you need a break... all perfectly reasonable and understandable statements. However, if that then leads to weight, moving less and eating more just to return in September feeling fat, sluggish and yeuch, then what kind of holiday is that?

We used to discuss attitude to exercise when I worked on the Juicy retreats - so you "want a holiday? you want a break?" - a break from what? being fit and well and strong and healthy?!!

Every day you put it off, makes it much, much harder to then pick back up. Remember that! You are already factoring your exercise into your daily schedule so rather than just stopping, keep that commitment but halve the time?

Maybe this August, use the Olympic Games to motivate and inspire you!

Perhaps rather than letting it all fall off a cliff, try to plan just something short and simple every day. Dr. Rangan Chatterjee - (another podcast I really recommend) discusses this. He says that we clean our teeth twice a day for 2 mins. That is 4 mins a day. We do it because it is habit and it is easy. So add to that . 4 Minutes. YES, FOUR MINUTES! Nobody is "too busy" to not fit in 4 minutes. Hey! Live on the edge - round it up to 5? max. Promise yourself you will do 5 mins a day of squats or lifting some weights, or stepping up and down the bottom stair of the staircase or treading water in the sea or marching on the spot - choose anything!

Make it really simple and really accessible and make it a daily habit.

Focus on the end goal which is to make this a life hack that is as familiar and routine as cleaning your teeth.

Imagine the satisfaction of returning from holiday feeling rested but still well, energised and fit. Set an example to those around you who are perhaps less motivated.

“Think of your workouts as important meetings you schedule with yourself. Bosses don’t cancel”

EXERCISE SNACKS

August challenge . For my part to support you and to offer ideas, I am putting together some short 5 and 10 min classes in the Snack Bar for you to access - I will do some "Rise and Shine" mobility and from there, a whole range of different quick exercise snacks, that you will be able to do wherever you are so keep an eye in the library as I will be loading these over the next week or so.

NEW CLASSES GOING IN SO FAR - between 8 - 14 mins...

Strength - Back and shoulders - weights

Strength Legs - weights

Strength - Abs

Full body Rise and Shine mobility

Mobility - backs

Mobility lower body

Mobility chest and shoulders

To see more about the challenges, please go to the library and remember that there are lots of new classes in there already.

What’s coming up.

It is New Forest Show week and I shall be missing in action from Monday lunchtime, being terribly busy and important. Clare will be taking over the reins and as always please keep an eye on the calendar! I hope to see several of you at the show and am absolutely delighted to share that Becky who is currently working on my website and who I did my recent photo shoot with is official Show Photographer so if you see her (bright pink hair, carrying cameras!) do say hi!

The August challenge - going up in the library in the next few days. I hope you join in and as always, keep me posted on progress and how you got on in your July challenge.

We are going to postpone the Isle of Wight day out until Sept - August is getting too busy but please do put lunch in your diary for Wed Sept. 11th for an end of Summer catch up. Details to follow but it will be New Forest based.

Finally

"I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.” Muhammad Ali

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act but a habit.” –Aristotele

“Just believe in yourself. Even if you don’t, just pretend that you do and at some point, you will.” – Venus Williams

Have a great weekend everyone and I hope you are glued to the OLYMPICS - watch out for some "fun" in our classes as I get inspired!!

WEEKLY WRAP UP. WEEK 28. 2024. But what does a good client look like??

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:35:51 GMT

What does a good client look like… and other potential career ending musings…

People have been saying to me for years that I should write a book about life as a Personal trainer/Pilates teacher. However I see it a bit like “The Help”. - (if you haven’t read the book and seen the movie, DO! It’s superb and you will get my point! However there is no chocolate pie here…. )

The two things that I find the most infuriating are people turning up late to class, and chasing payment.. the first I just find extraordinarily rude, disruptive and inconsiderate to everyone else in the class ** and the latter I just hate having to do. It uses up my own, unpaid free time and is just uncomfortable. You wouldn’t go out for dinner or to the hairdresser without paying for the service so why do you think your Pilates class should be any different?!

** - those who are online and have already discussed this with me are not included in this! And I too have my moments!!

Fortunately I have incredible clients and am blessed with decades of loyalty. I am only too aware of my many foibles and annoying ways so I hope you will allow me to share some of the experiences I have had over the years of what is possibly less than ideal in a class but often very amusing.

Timekeeping… as already mentioned. I put my hand up to the occasional blunder here but I am talking the regular late comer. Being habitually late is bad enough and is downright rude. It is to suggest that your time is more important than ours and although we all made the effort to get there on time to be prepared, you swan in and disrupt us all. However, … as if that isn’t bad enough….

Telling me and the entire class why you are late. In detail!
Making a huff and puff about getting your mat, sorting your shoes, your bag… and then sitting on your mat to set your smart watch before asking me what we are doing as you weren’t paying attention. (Always one of my favourites)
All the above and then asking your neighbour what we are doing….
I teach at a lovely spa hotel where guests often join the class. One time, a man ran in 10 mins late. I quickly asked was he physically well etc. etc and we had our class. Every now and then he sat up and pointedly looked over at the weights rack. At the end of the class, I asked him if he attended Pilates regularly. No he said, he had never done a Pilates class in his life. “Well you just did” I informed him to which he replied “I wondered what was going on - I signed up for Kettlebells -”

Mobile phones. Oh dear. Oh dear, oh dear… The fact is that the second your phone pings, you are now distracted. Just turn it off for God’s sake for one hour?!!! However,

Reading the message on your Smart phone instead
Telling the whole class to “just ignore it” as it goes to voicemail and then voicemail rings, and again… and again…
Telling us all that you are waiting for a very important phonecall. I’m curious - would you do the same in church? Your child’s prize giving? The theatre?
Getting up off your mat, going over to your bag, taking out your phone, answering it and having a conversation -yes really!

The expert.

Sitting up on your mat and correcting your neighbour, even though you have never met them before.
Doing totally your own thing. While we are working through The Hundred, you randomly start doing a Shoulder Bridge
I had one attendee who told me that she had a strict exercise order and regime and that was what she was going to do - and she did. She just got on and did her own thing, on a mat at the front of the class and totally ignored us. When I asked her why she didnt just do her own workout and why she needed to be in my class, she told me that she always did her class on Friday at 10.30. Fair enough,..
Telling me for each exercise we performed, what the Yoga name was and just how like Yoga this was before then doing the Yoga equivalent and totally ignoring me.

5. The “my teacher doesn’t teach it like that” attendee - when I explain that we all do teach differently she was undeterred and took it upon herself to demonstrate what she felt was more appropriate. Throughout the class....

Relaxation.

I have had quite a few people dozing off over the years and if it as the end, in a relaxation time, then I take that as quite a compliment. The individual though, who would yawn throughout the entire class - loudly - very loudly, in my face in a mouth wide open “HOOOOOOoooooooooooo” type of style.

Do you have any medical issues I need to be aware of? So important and something I will always ask but

The very slim lady who had a tiny bit of a bump and was adamant she had nothing to mention despite me asking gently, quite a few times. We then started a pretty advanced class. She kindly mentioned at the end that she was expecting and was 32 weeks. I nearly passed out!
The one who turned up to class and advised that she had given birth FIVE DAYS BEFORE. I did on this occasion, direct her back home despite her arguing quite strongly. Quite frankly I was amazed she was up and dressed!
This is one example of something I have seen many times over the years. Idly watching out the window as this individual pulled up in the carpark, dropped her keys on the floor, picked them up, opened the boot, moved about some large bags, ran across the carpark, dropped her mat halfway and scooped it back up before stopping at the door, putting her hand on her back and telling me she had to be VERY CAREFUL as her back was playing up.
I cant come to the (gentle, all levels back care) class as my back is really aching today…

Payment.

So it’s a 6 week block but I am away on a very expensive holiday for one week so can I not pay for that week? YES OF COURSE - and don’t forget to ask the hotel for a refund if you don’t use all the towels or finish the soap.
Can I pay you in Marks and Spencers vouchers?
Oh I am £10 short - is that ok just this once?

Clothing.

I have seen more than any woman should see of people’s nether regions. Let’s just say that fellas, if you are wearing baggy shorts, perhaps some cycle shorts underneath would help as otherwise please forgive me skipping the One leg circle, the leg opener, the Side lying series as the mouse can sometimes pop out of his house…

Ladies - if you want to wear thongs (how though? I cannot imagine anything less comfy), PLEASE DEAR GOD do the squat test in front of the mirror first…

A windy issue.

It is fair to say that certain exercises can induce a little flatulence if unprepared and over the years, I have known what to avoid when certain people are in the class to spare their blushes. Not helpful though, the man who once said “Nice one - what a belter” before offering his own example.

And finally….

Oh I hate this one/ I can never do this one. Well thanks for that - now the entire class is anticipating a negative outcome. How about you try a more positive approach?
I’ve just worked really hard in my Body Pump class -can we not work too hard (because it is all about me and I just used up all my energy in a different class)… possibly the toughest class I have ever taught
Pilates is a woman thing isn’t it “Love” - my wife has dragged me along but its not really a workout is it “Love”… actually, this is probably the toughest class I have EVER taught
Oh we love coming to your class. Our last teacher was just GORGEOUS and perfect and you make us feel much better about ourselves…

5. “You know those exercises that you planned specifically for me to help me? Well guess what - they actually seem to be working”….

And a couple of funnies…

Being summoned in to the aforementioned spa hotel for a private session for a VIP - literally no idea who she was and duly taught her. She was impressed and posted a selfie with me- my two daughters saw in on instagram and nearly passed out…

The very sweet lady who asked me if I had ever met Joseph Pilates? (1883 - 1967)

Very pleasant man in my class commented on my leggings and told me the Spring Summer Sweaty Betty colours suited me… ok, weird but ok… then at the end asked me if I was a fan of the power leggings. Again, a bit weird… “You seem to know a lot about Sweaty Betty” said I. “Yes, I should do”, said he, “it’s my company”.

Lastly - may I just say that I continue to love what I do, love my clients and am very lucky to work with so many fabulous people!

Going online and Zoom blunders is a stand alone blog I think!!

WHAT IS GOING ON AND WHAT IS COMING UP

We are hopefully going to get back to the beach again soon. I am currently having a few days away in sunny Cornwall but next week is looking good so look out for what's app notices and instagram posts to confirm.

There is some give and take over August as both Clare and I have some holiday etc but I give you below a general outline for your preparation.

August

w/c 5th - usual schedule except you have me not Clare on the Wed.

w/c 12th. Clare on Monday, me FOR 2 Classes on Wed and no live classes on 15th and 16th

w/c 19th. Clare on Monday, me on Wed and I hope to be delivering live from Carfest on Friday - just need to see the wifi and space situation.

w/c 26th. No live class on Monday, 2 classes on Wed and no live class Friday.

I hope you can make use of the many new classes in the library and see where we are doing our best to continue to give you the best value possible while taking some time out here and there. If you have any questions, please do get in touch and of course, always keep an eye on the calendar for updates.

Please put September 11th in your diary for our (really hate to even type this) end of Summer party... details to follow.

Week 27. 2024. So how do I find a good teacher?

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 15:44:31 GMT

Ok, I understand about Pilates. Now how do I find a good teacher?

I mean obviously I would like to say you find a cheerful blonde lady in her mid 50's who teaches online and all will be well, but of course other varieties are out there!

So, you have decided to take up Pilates, or you have relocated or you have decided on a change. Whatever your reason, there is so much choice out there, how do you know where to go for classes and to make sure you will be taken care of?

I am always amused by people who say "Oh I tried Pilates but I didn't like it/found it boring/didn't like the teacher".....if you go for a haircut and you don't like the results, do you just not have your hair cut anymore? No of course not. You ask friends, you look around, you try again... and so the same applies here. If you really don't get on with it, then fair enough but don't give up after one class or one teacher who doesn't suit you.

I would say first of all, be very clear on what it is you want to achieve. Are you attending because you are recovering from an injury and your clinician has told you that Pilates will repair you in order to return to lifting weights/running marathons or whatever? Do you want to go because all the other mums at school are doing it and you don't want to be left out? or is it because you have heard so much about it and understand that it will only enhance your life in so many ways by building strength, mobility. balance, mind body connection and will help you to do all the other things in your life with more efficiency?

For my part, I don't mind if you don't really love Pilates but you understand that it makes such a difference to your cycling or tennis. Great because then you will be committed and work. If you are just tagging on because your neighbour says it is brilliant, then your attitude is going to be different. So as I say, be very clear on what you hope to achieve.

I have only ever once been asked if I am insured and what my qualifications are. Once. In 20 years. Please ask your teacher. Where did they train? How long have they been practising? Are they insured? Are they CIMSPA registered - this is a good source as in order to be registered, you are required to provide evidence of ongoing learning which would be my next question. Never trust a teacher who doesn't "practise what they teach" and are they committed to further learning?

Do you want an instructor or do you want a Teacher? Yes, there is a big difference. If you are looking for a full body workout that looks like Pilates, then you can find many, many instructors. If you want to practise Pilates, you need a Teacher. Someone who understands the Method, the history, has researched and learned about the origins and adaptations and who fully understands what makes Pilates the unique form of exercise it is. Either is fine of course but again, be clear on what you are looking for. An instructor will give you a super class (hopefully) but a Teacher will want you to learn more about your body, how you move, connect to the Mind Body connection and leave the class slightly. more aware of this than when you arrived.

I spent 6 years working as a teacher trainer and through that, have made many friends, learned a lot about people and seen a lot of very successful teachers evolve and grow. There is room for so many different types of people on this earth but for me, someone who turns up late, flustered, with paperwork in chaos and a bag full of excuses is not someone I would choose to have a class with. I would expect my teacher to be clear on what the purpose of the class is going to be, a brief overview of what to expect and an appropriate welcome and intro.

One of my big no no's and something I harped on and on about with my students was "Get off your mat!" - a teacher who doesn't leave their mat is a lazy teacher! I have occasionally been challenged on why I am not doing the class with my participants but if I am, then how on earth can I observe you from different angles, and correct where necessary? While there are music based classes with choreography that need the instructor at the front, leading the class, Pilates is not one of them and if your teacher treats your class as though it is her/his own, look elsewhere.

No-one can know everything and it might be that you need a more specialised teacher - someone who perhaps works more on orthopaedic conditions, or perhaps pre/post natal. Again, ask your teacher and if you have a very particular need, then you are best advised to find someone who is more trained in that area.

Your teacher needs to be able to adapt and modify to be all inclusive. Of course you need to make sure the class is the level best for you which might well mean that you need to go at a different time to your friend or that you can't drop in after work but it will pay off in the end. Either way however, your teacher should be able of offer alternatives for you and break down the moves if required. My own personal take on an advanced class is that you are not required to do all the moves at an advanced level but you have enough knowledge and experience to adapt for yourself without holding up the class.

A good teacher will challenge you and push you but also support and encourage so that you come away feeling you have achieved in some way. Maybe you managed to do 3 reps with both legs in Table top this week or you performed the seated work with your legs straight - a little win from when you started a few weeks ago.

Personally, I do something different in every class and would completely lose the will to live if we had to repeat the same class for 6/8 weeks but I know for some, this works. However if you find you could run the class yourself and are on automatic pilot, then perhaps you are due for a change of teacher.

If you want to chat a lot then you will need a different teacher perhaps from someone who wants to concentrate and focus. If you fancy a workout that is low intensity but are not really bothered about understanding Pilates then perhaps choose a class that is more general as believe me, it can be really challenging to manage a class where everyone is focused in their practise and there are those one or two who are not as considerate about timekeeping and concentration!

Your teacher should be able to give you some time before or after the class for any reasonable enquiry and if they can't answer on the spot, agree a time to follow up. This can be tricky in the larger chain type gyms where classes can be huge but you chose this class, you have paid and you are entitled to be cared for. Talking of huge classes - really not ideal AT ALL but that may be all that is available to you in which case, please make sure that your teacher allows you to move places so you are not in the back corner every week and that he/she is always walking around to see that everyone is working correctly. If you cannot see or hear clearly, please do speak up and ask to be moved.

It is SUCH a personal thing too. You need to feel safe, supported and understood in order to achieve. I also believe you need to have fun! If you don't like me, please find a different teacher who is a better fit. We cannot possibly all like everyone and you will do a lot better if you like and "get" the person teaching you.

This is YOUR class. If your instructor spends more time talking about their domestic problems than teaching, look elsewhere. If they haven't corrected you in any way or given any feedback, look elsewhere. If they are constantly late, distracted by their phone, have obvious class favourites or short change you on time, look elsewhere. If they do not check your physical well-being on a regular basis or adapt for that strain from gardening or that crick in the neck, look elsewhere. If they are reluctant to offer information on insurance, qualifications or training, run elsewhere.

However, if they understand how to best accommodate your level and adapt accordingly, if they have a class prepared and offer support and encouragement and give you time to ask questions and feel a sense of achievement then do please thank them. We work very hard you know!

Next week - what makes a good client... mooowhahahahahah

What is coming up.

I am taking a few days off from Tuesday lunchtime next week and Clare is covering on Thursday. Please note there are no live classes on Friday but you have lots of new library content!

Clare and I have got our heads together to make sure that we have some time off here and there, but continue to offer you as much as we can. Clare will be covering here and there and there will be a couple of Wednesdays when you will find me waiting for you in Clare's place. There are a very few days with no live classes but they are minimal and I do hope you will see how hard we work to offer as much as we can.

Week 26. 2024. What is Pilates? part 2 . The 34 Moves

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 20:53:06 GMT

The 34 Moves. What are those? What is this all about?

Joseph Pilates, a visionary in the realm of physical fitness, left behind a legacy that continues to shape the way we approach exercise today. Among his many contributions, perhaps one of the most influential is the 34 move mat sequence, a sequence of movements or exercises designed to incorporate strenght, stretch and coordination to promote strength, flexibility, and mind-body connection. Pilates believed that modern lifestyle, bad posture, and inefficient breathing lay at the roots of poor health. To combat this, he devised a series of 34 exercises and training techniques. These movements are performed in a sequence, mostly repeated 3 times with his belief being that 3 repetitions was sufficient to achieve the purpose

The original warm up is quite punchy and not what you might expect. You can see a video of this in my previous post of Pilates warming his class up with star jumps, spotty dogs and a high energy routine. From here, we stand, cross legs, fold arms and lower to the mat to start with The Hundred. This is all about the breath, oxygenating the body and really getting into lateral thoracic breathing. Next into Roll up and Roll over, appreciating spinal mobility and the sense of opposition or 2 way stretch. Into the One Leg Circle for some tough obliques focus before some release and "fun" in the Roll back or Rolling. We then go into the One leg stretch and Double leg stretch, adding power to press down onto the stomach and improve circulation to the digestive organs. Adding Romana's exercises here, we continue the "Abs 5" with One leg straight, Double leg Straight and Criss cross. Spine stretch follows and is quite welcome from the previous moves and is a super prep. for the Open leg rocker. Corkscrew can be a beast to master, keeping to rotation and not hip hitching. The Saw is a combination of the Spine Stretch and the Spine Twist before flipping prone for Swan Dive for a lovely Thoracic extension with some moments and power. Single and Double leg kick challenge stability while opening up the hip flexors and lengthening the Quadriceps. Neck pull is a tough one too before we move into the "inversion series" of the High Scissors, High Bicycle and then drop down into High Shoulder Bridge. Spine Twist is one you know well before the very cheeky Jack Knife which requires a strong upper body connection. The Side kick is ALL about stability through the centre, keeping shoulders and hips inline before we go into The Teaser, probably the most famous Pilates move - a lot harder than it looks. The Hip Twist is similar to Corkscrew in the sense of maintaining rotation not hitching, moving into Swimming which again, requires thoracic extension and opposition of the two way stretch. Leg Pull prone is often referred to as a Plank and then we go into Leg pull supine or up, which needs that open chest again. Side kick kneeling reduces your conection with the floor so a bit more challenge on stability and then we go into Boomerang which is complex but fun. Seal is often misunderstood but focus on the hip opener action followed by Crab which is precision and control. Rocking is a stomach massage and hip opener before moving into Control Balance. This is a tough one but so satisfying with a powerful hip opening action. The Push Up completes the series and this is a way to encapsulate all the elements of Pilates as you roll down, walk out, push up, walk in, roll up and repeat up to to 5 push ups.

This is the advanced description but we have so many ways to break down each and every exercise and make it inclusive for all. In my view, to attend an advanced class does not require you to do the moves at an advanced level but to have sufficient understanding and experience to adapt where you need. Those familiar to my classes know that I will refer to joint action, plane of movement, muscle groups and so on, and if you are for example, performing the Spine Twist, seated on a block with your knees soft, your arms folded, moving more slowly, is that not still a Spine Twist? While someone else has straight legs, wide arms and is adding power with pulse, you are both moving through the same joint action, using the same muscles and so on. Also, we can take a whole class to master one move - lets say for example that we want to perfect a Roll over. I will consider work to mobilise the spine, help us to understand the two way stretch or opposition, add some chest opener work and wake up the triceps, maybe lengthen the hamstrings - this might the 8 or 10 exercises before we put all the benefits of this preparation and work together to enable us to perform the move.

The 34 moves really is a joy to perform and we will be working on this (again) in the Autumn where we will go over some of the more complex moves, understand how to break down and adapt before starting to sequence and link. I am sure some of you can remember when we did "The Christmas 68"?? We went all the way through and then went all the way back and while we were all dreading it, how STRONG did we feel at the end! During lockdown when I moved us all online, we were meeting every single day and practising and practising and it is consistency that gets us the results . The beauty of this is that the body recognises the patterns and can almost be ahead of you - even if you are thinking "what next", your body is automatically moving into the next position. The purpose of habit is to save energy - the reason we have habits is so that we can perform daily tasks on automatic pilot without using energy to relearn all these things and The 34 Moves really embraces this.

What is your favourite move and why? and what do you absolutely hate.. and why? Personally, I LOVE so many moves but I find Hip Circles and Leg Pull supine the ones (or 2 of the ones!) I have to really work at. Mind you, I do not doubt for a moment that a fellow teacher would watch my practise and let me know I have a lot more than those 2 to work on.

I love sequences and I think we can pick and choose, mix it up and just have fun with it too to add some power, punch and variety.

What is coming up.

As we slide towards the Summer hols, please keep an eye on the calendar. Clare and I will endeavour to keep you challenged, strong and motivated between us and I will always advise of any calendar changes. There may be a little give and take, while we ensure you get plenty of classes as always. Don't forget our extra class this coming Wed 10th on the beach. Clare and I are teaming up to teach half a class each before heading up the road to the pub for a drink or two to launch Summer 24. Details above. Please try and join us in person and if you can't make the class you are still of course welcome to join us for a drink. The class will also be live online for those further afield.

NEW IN LIBRARY (going up in the next couple of days... )

The July challenge (sorry it was late.. must try harder)

Clare's class this week (Clare's classes)

Friday strength class (Strength classes)

Just stop, breathe and become present (All levels) - EVERYONE needs to do this!

Weekly wrap up. Week 25. 2024. What actually IS Pilates? part 1.

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 13:00:00 GMT

What is Pilates. Joseph who? Why do I do it? 34 what? Part 1

If someone asks you why you do Pilates, what do you say? If they ask you what it is, how do you answer? Let’s be fair - how many of us actually know much about it? We know it is good for us but do we actually know what it really is? I mean obviously I do but you get my point!

When I used to teach the Level 3 Pilates qualification, one of my very first questions was “what is Pilates?” To be met frequently with total silence… how do you put into words what it is all about and I ask you now, before you carry on reading - What is Pilates? Do you truly KNOW what is is and why you do it? Do you actually know about the namesake at all?

There are a lot of variations and opinions on Pilates and there are a lot of Pilates classes that are not Pilates!

There is a saying that “ 80% of people doing Pilates are not doing Pilates ”. There are plenty of options to work slowly and sequence moves but that does not mean it is Pilates. IMHO, in order to fully immerse, you need to know about the creator, it’s history and the thinking behind it to fully understand why Pilates is the unique form of exercise that it is. By the way - yes, it absolutely can be an intensive, high powered work out - just check out the moves here before you think it is all slow and stretchy - CLICK HERE

There are lots of classes that adapt Pilates moves and I myself very much enjoy some "fusion" or "power" work and why not - if it is safe, effective and appropriate it can be a fun way to adapt but let's talk pure Pilates here.

So who was he?

Joseph Hubertus Pilates was born in 1883 near Dusseldorf, Germany. Now here already I wade into controversy as the famous story is that he was a sickly child, suffering from rickets, asthma and “ rheumatoid fever”. However I was fortunate enough to attend a talk with German author and historian Eva Rincke who wrote his biography in 2015 after exhaustive research (and interestingly when speaking to his remaining family, they declined to be involved).

So the alternative thinking is that Joseph’s mother was a naturopath and it suited her very well to display his “healing” as a result of her remedies that saw her sales grow considerably and that perhaps his ailments were not all totally genuine. Something we will never know.

What is not in question is that he was bullied at school and his damaged eye was a result of being hit by a stone from a catapult. What is also known is that he used to spend hours hiding in the woods and so on, observing wild animals and became fascinated with their movement and from here, ideas grew as he recognised that they did not present mobility restrictions that humans did. Here too was the basis for some of his moves - think of all the animal names such as Crab, Seal, Swan Dive, Grasshopper, Dolphin and more.

Joe started training to build strength and confidence and took up boxing, bodybuilding and gymnastics. As a mere teenager, he was so well developed that he was used as a live model for anatomy education. Can you imagine the work and dedication back in a time when this was not recognised at all as it is today?

He studied Eastern and Western exercise methods and was very much invested in Greek and Roman philosophy. There is a definite divide in opinion on the influence of Yoga in his work but while some moves definitely appear similar, Contrology (to give it the original name) was always based in functional rather than spiritual foundation.

In 1912, JP travelled to England (and a lesser known belief is that he abandoned a wife and children on the docks)

When WW1 broke out, along with other German nationals, Joe was interned in a POW camp on the Isle of Man. It was here that he started really developing his work, rehabilitating injured soldiers. Can you believe the famous Reformer and some other studio equipment ideas were created here - JP created apparatus from metal hospital beds and used springs for resistance and the success in rehabilitation work widely reported. (Further down the line it was also noted that no-one who was practising his breathing and exercise methods succumbed to the Spanish Flu epidemic)

After the war, Joe returned to Germany but on being invited to train the New German Army, decided that raised certain implications and moved on again. Possibly, he was invited by World boxing Champion Max Schmelling but either way, he found himself sailing to New York and on board, met Clara who would become his wife (again, a famous belief although Eva states that they never married).

In 1926, Pilates and Clara set up a studio on Eight Avenue, NYC. The clientele was very mixed with dancers, gymnasts and circus performers. It was the dancers particularly who were drawn to him and his deep understanding of how the human body moved and he famously went on to work with the New York Ballet.

Joe was approached many times to expand and open more branches of his gym but he flat out refused as he was fiercely protective of his work and wanted total control so while he undoubtedly restricted his income, did it display some control issues or was he just very possessive of his work?

The studio was full of all the equipment you would find in any Pilates studio today and he had a rule that you needed to attend a minimum of 3 times a week and failing that, you would not be welcome. There was no routine - you went in and just started working on a piece of equipment you fancied and he or Clara would wander by to observe.

Elders is the name given to “first generation teachers” - anyone who trained directly with Pilates and Clara and I attended a convention with Jay Grimes who is a retired dancer and Elder, training with Joe in the 60’s until his death and then for a following 10 years with Clara and he gave us a fascinating insight into the studio regime. (It was he that told us that he was Joe and not Jospeh). He told us that Clara was called “The Ghost” as she would silently appear as if from nowhere and with minimal direction, would just prod you here or there and say “this - this” as suggestion of what to work on.

All pictures of Clara show her wearing her nurse’s uniform. The fact is that she was not a nurse and had no nursing training but believed it offered her a more authoritative look.

I follow a hilarious Indian comedian/Yoga teacher who does this skit on why people are "rushing, rushing, rushing, rushing, rushing" to get to Yoga and therefor, this is not Yoga.

Pilates has the same theory. It is SO much more than just turning up once a week to attend a class. It is learning about your body, how you move, how to balance and build strength all these lessons into your everyday life. It is a lifestyle and an appreciation of how to appreciate and protect your body - read some of the quotes to help you better understand this. I say over and over that I want you to learn more about yourself and how you move and to use this in your other activities and sports so that you can always be the best possible version of yourself and look towards a long and healthy senior life!

Remember - Look after your body. It's the only place you have to live in.

What we have been up to. What is coming up.

It has been a fun week, trying to teach in the garden with slightly wonky wifi and very enthusiastic dogs but we always find a way! I never take for granted how amazing it is to be able to connect to so many locations and join together. I had a busy day last week with the amazing 'Becky takes Photos' to give my website a facelift and a refresh. Bertie and Gretl were very involved in that too and Becky did a wonderful job as I am a totally hopeless muse. My ex husband is a professional photographer who told me I was more wooden than Pinocchio so I knew what she was up against but I think we will find some good pics for both website and new flyers etc.

Please cast an eye over the new homepage and do give me your thoughts. ...it is a work in progress and will continue to develop. I hope you are enjoying the new content in the library and also the new layout which I think you will agree, is easier to navigate.

Congratulations and counselling available to Lou and Clare who successfully not only ran up and down various mountains in Wales last Saturday but also encountered orienteering and actual mountain climbing. Please now rest a bit you too!

What is everyone else up to? I am very jealous of one online member rocking it out to Taylor Swift last week at Wembley and some others are Glastonbury bound, not least our own Frome resident being escorted in a double decker bus!

How have you got on with the June challenge? The July challenge will be going up in the library in the next few days and coming soon - The 34 moves. I am writing about this next week and we will be hitting this hard in the Autumn!

I can highly recommend the Federer documentary on Netflix and I also really enjoyed the James Blunt documentary - he is a very funny guy but do prepare for some fruity language. I will always remember my dear, then 12 year old daughter, sitting in the back of the car with my Mother in the passenger seat and as we drove past some very grafitti'd bill boards, saying "Oh I think you should look away Grandma, there is some very inappropriate language"....

Have a great weekend all xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 24. 2024. NO EXCUSES!

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 19:47:54 GMT

Weekly wrap up. Week 24. 2024

If you are not changing it, you are CHOOSING it.

No excuses.

Well my week got off to a flying start. I had arranged to hire a bike very similar to the model I was buying in order to try it out and early on Sunday, I set off from where I am currently staying to cycle over to Lyndhurst to deliver that bike back and take delivery of my fabulous new, shiny model. Only I had forgotten that the Bucklers Hard Triathlon was taking place.

Clearly being out at an early hour suggested that I was in the elite competitors zone and never before have I had quite so many whoops and fist pumps… there was I, happily trundling along, enjoying the vista and listening to Sounds of the 70’s with Tony Blackburn, minding my own business when around every corner were cheers and shouts of encouragement - Have to admit that I did cycle a little bit faster after that but did feel I needed to point out that I was just a hobby cylist …. FOR NOW…..

So for my part, I have set a few little goals to keep me on track. A lot of people seem to assume that I just leap out of bed and throw myself into exercise and for the large part, I do but I am only human and I too have chunks of time when I can do a little too much sofa surfing and that slope is very slippery.

I know all too well that if you make an excuse for today’s workout, it makes it far easier to excuse tomorrow and then it is a week and before you know it, that discipline has fallen by the wayside, and you are back to square 1.

For my part, I had to pull myself up by the bootstraps and throw myself back into my own training - when I am teaching classes, it is all about you and your needs and I had to get back to giving my own fitness a kick up the backside… I am an addict so of course this has gone from zero to full immersion and as I warned some time ago, the fitter I get, the harder my classes get which has been noted but hey! WHAT is not to love!!! We are all on this journey together, are we not! I have to motivate and push myself as well as hopefully motivating you too!

There is no doubt that it is easier to maintain than to start again but we all know that it is very easy to let those bad habits creep back in so as the holidays approach and already I am seeing a gentle drop off, may I just very gently suggest a few tips to help prevent a total halt to all that good work.

We all KNOW that a balanced diet combined with exercise of some sort helps us maintain a healthy weight, gives us more energy, reduces the risk of type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, joint issues, depression, osteoarthritic conditions, it helps us sleep better - do I go on? So WHY do we find it so hard to stick to?

A lot of the time, it is a change to routine that tips us upside down so in that case, change the way you factor in your exercise to accommodate.

Usually do 6 classes/workouts a week? Settle for 3.

Don’t have time for a full hour class? Do 30 mins.

Kids are home and can’t get to your usual class? Work out from home and include the kids. Make up a simple circuits class in the garden.

Don’t over think it. Can you get up 30 mins earlier and just do it? Get it done before you start the day. Put your clothes out the night before, get up and get cracking before your negative voice has a chance to think about it. 30 mins later it’s done. Get on with your day with a win already in your pocket.

Try 3 days a week to skip the booze, drink more water, avoid processed food and eat more greens.

Get outside and walk in the fresh air. Take time to stop and and be present. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed, step away from all the “essential” tasks and go for a walk. Take a break.

If you are not changing it - you are choosing it

YOUR FUTURE SELF WILL THANK YOURSELF TODAY FOR INVESTING THAT TIME, EFFORT AND CARE TO BUILD A BETTER YOU FOR THE FUTURE.

Remember - Health and Fitness can be MOST OF THE TIME. It does not need to be ALL THE TIME. Take the pressure off!

So many people tell me that they want to train more often but they are too busy…. You know the best time to start a new training program? When you are busy! Why? Because if you can fit a new program into an already busy life, you will stick at it. If you wait until you are less busy, a) that will never happen and b) as soon as you get busy again, you will drop it - so find the time.

If you want to talk excuses, come to me. I am an expert on justifying to myself why I can get away with skipping that weights session or extra Pilates training but those are the BEST workouts - the ones where you really don’t feel like it but do it anyway. That sense of achievement is the BEST. A massive boost to the self esteem and a nod to self discipline.

Perhaps the greatest gift you can give yourself tomorrow is some investment in your health today.

What we DO has a FAR bigger impact on how we feel than how we FEEL affects what we do. In the words of a large sporting brand, “Just do it!”.

What we have been up to

Firstly, a huge thank you to Emma Hammerton for our online talk on Tuesday evening. I think we all learned a lot and most importantly that help is out there! There are so many ways to help ourselves and also to know what options we have with professional help. It was super to see such a good turnout and we were really lucky to benefit from Emma's experience and knowledge.

Another busy week. This week 4 new classes have gone up into the library - strength, power Pilates and mixed ability. Im shattered today, dont know about you!

I have enjoyed being outside and having a lot of support on the mat from my canine friends. Sorry for all the times one of the dogs was sat in front of the screen!! Also, when we were doing the Roll up and I said “Feel free on the way down to stroke your Jack Russell” please note that I was referring to the little bundle of Gretl sat by my side - it was not meant as a euphemism!!

I had a busy day on Wednesday with the wonderful “Becky takes photos” as we are working on a facelift for my website. I had warned her how much I hate photos but Becky was brilliant and we had a lot of fun… not least including some photos in my newly fitted out camper van! Watch this space for a new look website soon.

What’s coming up.

As I type this, our very own Wednesday teacher Clare and loyal Pilates devotee Lou are settling into their camper vans tucked up in the Snowdonia area as tomorrow they are running up it… in a marathon… Please join me in wishing them both a lot of fun, and a reminder to use lots of sunscreen and drink gallons of water!

TEACH FROM THE BEACH!

Looking at the forecast, I think we can finally get cracking and I will be teaching on Tanners Lane beach on Tues and Thurs 8am and 9am. Please message me for details. Online classes will run as normal as I teach online from the beach. (Please note, these classes are included for members so if you are local, please come along)

Community support

If you are a hay fever sufferer, then our fellow member Caroline has kindly shared a post from Liz Earle who is talking about the wonders of Quercertin c. Apparently this is a total game changer.

If you enjoy the play Hay Fever however, then there is an open air production at Furzey lodge in August!

Finally

“Don’t speak negatively about yourself, even as a joke.

Your body does not know the difference.

Word are energy and they cast spells, that is why it is called spelling.

Change the way you speak about yourself and you can change your life.”

Bruce Lee

Have a wonderful weekend everyone. Forecast looks superb x

Weekly Wrap up. Week 23. 2024. Protein!

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 12:10:58 GMT

Weekly wrap up. Week 23. 2024

Protein.

This is really the buzz word and more and more research is proving how absolutely essential protein is in our diet. I remember the days of carb loading before marathons. There used to be pre race pasta parties can you, believe whereas more recently the focus is far more on getting plenty of protein onboard.

Talking to a friend at the weekend, she told me that when her husband went to the osteopath with an arthriticky knee, the first thing he was asked was how many kilos he weighed and he was then informed that he should be having a gram of protein a day for every kilo of weight. So if you are a 65 kilo individual then you need to be consuming 65grams of protein a day. While he has seen a huge improvement in his knee, Dr Michael Mosley has just written pretty much the very same thing this last week, stating that while the standard guidelines are 45grams for the average woman, actually 65 grams is much more realistic.

Style and makeup guru Trinny was talking to her personal trainer about her batwing under arm issue last week and established that all the weight lifting in the world would not resolve this without the back up of plenty of protein and that we are not eating enough.

So why do we need protein and what is this all about?

Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as speeding up recovery from injury. It is essential for bone health and strength. Protein is filling so makes us feel fuller for longer and reduces the desire to snack and overeat so indirectly helps with weight management. It improves brain function, strengthens the immune system and helps keep skin healthy. Protein helps repair body tissues and helps make hormones.

I could add loads of scientific research and explanation here but statistics show that you have already allowed your mind to wander so I will stick with the bullet point facts and leave you to research should you wish.

So how do we find it and do we need to weigh everything now?

Fortunately we all have access to the internet and a quick google will generally give you guidelines on protein content. For example 2 large boiled eggs have around 12 grams of protein so if you start your day with eggs and soldiers or an omlette, you are already off to a fine start. A large cup (8 oz) of plain, low fat yoghurt is around 12 grams of protein so throw in some seeds and nuts (and a handful of berries and a drizzle of honey) and you have a really protein rich desert.

As a vegetarian, I have had to look a little deeper but fortunately I am a fan of beans and pulses. Lentils, quinoa and beans such as chickpea and pinto are really good sources of protein but of course fish and meat are excellent options. Don’t overlook your greens as choices such as spinach are a good source too with some greens being high in amino acids which are the building blocks of protein (learnt this at the Juicy retreats when we lived on plants and vegetables!)

Take a little time to think of what you enjoy, what you can incorporate regularly and what portion sizes you need. Remember that the more active you are, the more protein you will need for muscle repair and bone growth. I have recently introduced protein powders to weight training / long cycling days to make sure I have it covered but you will find your own way for what suits you best.

Whatever your way, remember when you have finished your class or workout to reach for a large glass of water and a source of protein within 45 mins for maximum benefit.

Members Zone.

What we have been up to.

Well, I finished my first official road bike event. A huge thank you to online member and fellow Pilates teacher Fiona who, as soon as she heard I was Sussex bound, immediately offered me bed and breakfast. I had just THE loveliest evening with Fiona and her husband Jan and am lucky to have been offered a return visit complete with bike to join Jan and his cycling club so yes please!

I was very grateful to have had the most incredible hospitality and great company and that really set me up for my day!

A quick selfie with Davina McCall and off I set just after 8am on my 47 miles. There was a shorter ride and two longer ones but I had decided not to be toooo ambitious on my first event. Just as well as, with my usual brilliance, I managed to miss some markers and all too soon found myself riding back downhill to the start. While the organisers kindly whooped and clapped, I was frantically turning round and setting off back up the hill, not nearly as exciting second time around, while they were shouting after me, but I explained I still had 20 miles to do… unfortunately as all riders had left, they had taken down the original arrows so I just trundled around to get the miles in, in order to achieve what I had set out to do and to fully earn my (cheapest, nastiest I have ever seen) medal at the end, but do it I jolly well did, albeit on my own, missing the refuelling stations, running out of water… and noting to self that a) teaching a legs strength class 2 days before was fully moronic and b) I should have paid more attention.

However, Sussex is just beautiful (if rather hilly) and the sun was out. I did smile to myself cycling into one village and seeing a “30”speed sign. I remember many moons ago, watching The Magic Roundabout with my mother and her roaring with laughter at a line from Brian the snail as he slid his way down a road and saw a “30”sign and said “30 miles an hour? THIRTY MILES AN HOUR? I can’t go that fast” and I had to agree at that point!

Several of you are away in motor homes and camper vans and other holiday sources and I have really enjoyed the pictures of you working from the library as well as jumping in to live classes when you can find wifi. I really, really appreciate that and full marks to you for being committed to your practise to keep you strong. Easier to maintain than to start again!

It's been a busy week with weights, lower body workout, power Pilates and lots of recording.

What’s new in the library.

Clare has recorded her lower body class which is now in “Clare’s classes” and I have uploaded this Tuesday and Friday's strength classes (located, funnily enough in the section called Strength) and also Tuesday’s pure mat and Thursday’s power Pilates with small weights and mini loops (both in Mixed ability). SO much new content coming!

Please note the library is moving around a little and the order of display is changing. Any questions, please let me know.

You will see a new section called “Guest teachers” where you can try a class from peers of mine who have taught classes for me. You will also see a new area “The Monthly challenge” - more of that below.

What’s coming up

You will have seen the post about our upcoming Pelvic health and menopause talk on June 18th and if not, please go to Latest News on my website. I really hope you are able to make it as I know it will be of interest to all ages.

You ask, I listen

I have had a suggestion that we have a monthly challenge and I think that is a really good idea and I am going to add this to our library. One thing to do every day for the month and although we are already a few days into June, I am starting with The Hundred. challenge. Please go to the library and find the recording to get more info! 5 mins a day, every day. Who’s in?

Please forward challenge suggestions to see us through Summer and into Autumn and there will always be levels for everyone.

Please note -

If we are recording and you join late, please don't be offended if we don't acknowledge you. Nothing personal but obviously it isn't ideal for the recorded classes. No problem if you are running late and hop in after we have started but just to point out!

Finally

A quote -

“It’s very possible to gain several pounds of weight overnight. It is almost impossible to gain several pounds of body fat overnight.

Remember that, when you step on the scales and see the number has gone up because….

All body fat has weight but not all weight is body fat’

“Only lost a pound?” Have a look at the picture below to see just what that means!!

Fitness - dont put off starting a new fitness journey until when “you have more time” as that means that as soon as you become busy, you will drop it again. Start that new habit right NOW while you are busy so that you learn how to fit it into your busy life and that way, you are far less likely to drop it again!

Have a great weekend! xx we have been up to.

Menopause and pelvic health. Come and join us online for a talk.

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 12:15:50 GMT

Tuesday 18th June.

I am delighted to invite you to join me online as I welcome Emma Hammerton, specialist physiotherapist with The Arches physiotherapy in Lymington.

A word from Emma -

"Approaching and going through the menopause can have a considerable impact on a woman's pelvic health amongst all areas of their well-being. Decreasing oestrogen levels can have a testing impact on general health as well as pelvic health, where issues such as osteoporosis, incontinence, prolapse and painful sex can arise. Pelvic physiotherapy can help!

My name is Emma and I am a chartered physiotherapist who has specialised in physiotherapy for obstetrics and urogynaecology since 2007, which has included 15 years working within the NHS at the Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton and with the Southampton Bladder and Bowel Community Service, before offering a private physiotherapy service at The Arches Lymington in recent years. My work involves helping women with a range of problems from pregnancy-related conditions like pelvic girdle pain and diastasis, to urogynaecology symptoms that include bladder leakage, prolapse and vaginal pain.

I will be happy to explain the structure and role of the pelvic floor and how the menopause can impact its function. I will introduce you to some of the problems women can face when pelvic floor function is compromised and the pathways of self-help and care available to you - including those all important pelvic floor exercises!"

Everyone is welcome and joining us is very easy and completely FREE.

Please download the latest version of Zoom and put in meeting code 854 7696 8693

Password is Jun2024

Please feel free to get in touch with any questions and I really look forward to seeing you online soon.

Emma is running classes based around women's health and pelvic health at The Arches starting this month. Please contact them on 01590 688788 for more information.

Tuesday 18th June. Join us at 6.30pm for a prompt 6.45pm start!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 22. 2024. Why we need resistance in our lives.

Fri, 31 May 2024 19:26:12 GMT

Why we need resistance in our lives.

STRENGTH.

Anyone who works with me cannot have avoided all my references to why we need to lift weights and factor resistance work into our week. I am a Pilates teacher through and through and totally believe in "The Method" but I also think we have room and need to add to our practise and this is why I have revisited my Personal Trainer experience and expanded our class schedule to include the many benefits of lifting weights. Incase you missed the memo, here are a few pointers for you to consider -

Improved posture

Improved energy

Better balance so reduced risk of falls

Better coordination

Increased resting metabolism so you can eat more and still burn it off (as you gain muscle, your body needs more energy for fuel)

Reduced load on joints from improved muscle strength

Maintained/improved bone density - as you stress the bones through strength training, bone density can be increased and reduced the onset of osteoporosis

Reduced body fat and increased lean muscle tissue

Improved confidence

Now to answer some of those common questions -

No muscle DOES NOT weigh more than fat . A pound of fat is the same as a pound of feathers is the same as a pound of rocks. However, muscle is more dense than fat. This means that as we reduce body fat and replace it with lean muscle, while the scales may not move, we will see our measurements reduce. If weight loss is your focus, step away from the scales and measure yourself weekly instead. As a strong, toned adult, lifting weights and keeping fit, you may weigh the same as someone of your height who is 2 or even 3 dress sizes larger than you but is sedentary. Weighing scales are a nightmare. (look at photo at bottom of page!)
No, you will NOT bulk up . I mean, yes, you can do if that is your goal but only if you are undertaking an intensive strength training program alongside a carefully planned diet. Two to three weights sessions a week will not turn you into a bodybuilder. To reassure you, professional competition body builders spend hours and hours and hours lifting weights, eat enormous portions of food throughout the day and even set their alarms to get up during the night to eat more, as muscles require so many calories (energy).
No, you cannot spot train . Hate your tummy? Want to tone your wobbly arms? Fine but we need to look at the overall picture and build strength and tone in a balanced way to achieve results.
It is NEVER too late and yes you can. Start slowly and with small weights and get ready to see little gains very quickly but AGE IS NOT AGAINST YOU.
Tins of soup, bottles of water - you do not need a fully equipped gym in order to get started.

Keep it simple. 2 or 3 times a week, doing 30 mins of some kind of resistance work involving weights is bang on the money and will produce results pretty quickly. Add to that a healthy and balanced diet and head into the next chapter of your life as the best version of you YET.

Join me on Tuesdays at 9am and Fridays at 8am and bring your weights. The feedback I have got is all I need to reassure me that you are really enjoying the benefits and seeing so many gains in your lives and that is for me, the best reason possible to get lifting!

Fancy trying a class? Give me a call and I can send you the zoom code to find out what it is all about.

Next week we will talk protein but if you have access to Dr Michal Mosley, he has written an article just today about how much we need to eat and where to find it.

I am off to my first official cycling event on Sunday, taking advantage of online member Fiona's kind hospitality tomorrow night before setting off on 47miles of hilly Sussex roads early on Sunday. It is fair to say that my new addiction is fully installed as I am now researching carbon fibre bikes and protein powders but... I am SO enjoying it! Watch out locally for the loony in lycra!

Last week, the New Forest Cycling club were incredibly kind and accommodating and I had my first ever official road ride in a peloton, learning hand signals (not just the ones to use on idiot drivers!!) - I mean I dont want to say I overthought it but I had a very vivid dream the night before that I actually fell off my bike in the carpark before we set off which thankfully didnt happen!

Have a happy, healthy weekend everyone and see you online or in face to face classes next week xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 21. 2024

Fri, 24 May 2024 17:39:52 GMT

Weekly Wrap up. Week 21. 2024

Hi everyone

What we have been up to.

A strong start to the week with Rollers on Monday, and I am still recovering from our Tuesday weights class. Did you all think it was a tough one this week? That followed the 8am mat with soft ball and I will be repeating that class (or a version of it) and recording thanks to your feedback. Clare sent you into a lower body burn with her usual smiley "this is all going to be easy" approach and Thursday saw us going through some sequence and flow in Power Pilates. This morning's weights class was chest and back strength and I gather it was, again a tough one. (I do really love getting your feedback not least to reassure me that it wasn't just me finding it tough!)

If you have any questions at all on equipment, please always feel free to get in touch.

In other news

I lost my Garmin watch while out walking the dogs on Wednesday. What was supposed to be a reasonably short walk (following a very long bike ride in the rain) turned into a 2.5 hours search to retrace my steps and getting utterly drenched and with no success. Having shared my loss on various FB groups and asking for everyone to keep their eyes peeled, I trotted off to John Lewis to replace it.

I was discussing the options with a charming and really helpful sales assistant. What did the upgrades on the new model involve, I asked? "Well" he said, "as well as the standard running, cycling, swimming training options, they have now added several new, more random activities".

I am going to pause for a moment. I think we all know exactly where this is heading.

Once I had fully furnished Josh with all the facts about exactly WHY Pilates was worth including on the watch and why actually, yes lots of us did indeed track our Pilates classes, he left to check stock on the model I had chosen, no doubt reflecting on what must have felt like his lucky day, being able to have learned so much..... meanwhile I was perusing other items I might need such as 75" televisions with surround sound when one of his colleagues smiled at me and said "I love your chunky laces" nodding at my trainers. Only unfortunately I misheard him and thought he said "I love your chunky legs" to which I responded "I BEG YOUR PARDON?"... "I love them" he repeated - "I have exactly the same ones".... once we had established our crossed wires, we were having quite a chuckle about it as Josh, the John Lewis expert on adding Pilates to your Garmin watch returned and all was well.

I have now taken receipt of a shiny new sports watch but went out yet again today to have a third and final search but with no success. After many, many hours and miles and miles of training for 2 Moonwalks and various other activities, I feel like I have lost an old friend.

What’s coming up.

Bank Holiday weekend so no live classes on Monday. Several of us are getting together to go to the Isle of Wight on Thursday for a walk and lunch and therefor, there will be ONE LIVE class (on Thursday) covered by Clare and it will be 08.30am. Please be kind to her as she will have just retuned from some hill training before she and Lou set off to Snowdonia for another epic running endurance event.

It is their fault I am now getting my endurance legs back and I am venturing out this Sunday for my first ride out with The New Forest Cycle club. I am actually a little completely terrified as it is nearly all men and they are fast. However if I don't embrace the challenge, I will be the biggest hypocrite in town so here goes.

Other stuff.

The library is starting to change shape so bear with me as things move around but I am getting ready to start doing a lot more recording so get your requests in. You will see we now have "Clare's classes" and I have uploaded 2 more of her classes this week,

Quotes from this week.

"If you are not willing to look like a beginner, you'll never become a master. Being a learner is not only the cost of entry, it is the key to success!"

My favourite this week

"If you want a simple formula for having a good day, then get your workout done and do your most important task before lunch. Knock those two things out by noon and you will really feel ahead of your day."

Have a lovely long weekend and see you on Tuesday xx

Weekly Wrap up. Week 20. 2024

Fri, 24 May 2024 16:55:43 GMT

Weekly Wrap up. Week 20. 2024

Hi everyone

Happy Mental Health Awareness week!

Whatever your personal mental state, I think it is an opportunity to look around us and if nothing else, learn more from the many articles and posts on this topic this week.

For my part, I embraced my own mantra of “one day? Or DAY ON E” …. I was only too aware that I was sliding into a fog of “can't be bothered and don’t want to/boo hoo, I’m tired” and had to really pull myself up by my bootstraps .

Thoroughly inspired by my running friends and having always enjoyed endurance events, (and no longer able to run), I dug my (loaned) bike out from under piles of stuff in the garage, dusted it off and hit the road. This is a whole new and terrifying territory for me, having barely sat on a road bike before as I have always been a casual “off roader”.

Needless to say, me being me, one shortish ride by myself was swiftly followed by a 20 miler yesterday with my (extremely fit, extremely road bike experienced) neighbour. I came home, lay on the sofa and could hardly move and the many tasks I had diarised for the afternoon were gone for a burton.

Anyway, I have booked my first (reasonably modest) road event and all I can say is.. “Watch this space”. Mind you - you all come on the journey with me, as the fitter and stronger I get, the harder the classes get (please see lots of laughing emojis here - cant work out how to add them on this program)!!!

So for me, it has been DAY ONE! (When do you think I can justify buying new kit?)

What’s been happening

On Wednesday I had the pleasure of going to the 90th birthday party of a dear friend who started out as one of my very first clients. Jacquie quickly became a friend and her daughter Vanessa subsequently one of my dearest friends to this day. Anyway -90! So you see - clearly it works. I was terribly impressed at how they had repurposed Jacquie’s dumbbells and were using them to hold the balloons down.

This week we beamed into homes in Madrid, Cyprus (was it Crete? Or was it both - sorry!) as well as our regular Kefalonia and France and had a guest from Virginia, USA.

We were back to lifting some hefty weight today (seriously, after my epic bike ride, I was struggling there a bit!!!) and I hope you enjoyed the power Pilates on Thursday which was classic and familiar exercises but with a bit of pace and punch. We worked on the rollers and I sneaked a couple of new moves in there and Clare’s Wednesday class was just fantastic. Hard but fantastic as always.

I do encourage you to try different classes. Clare and I will always accommodate different levels and take best care of you, offering alternatives where necessary.

What’s coming up.

We have a lovely group getting ready to head to the Isle of Wight. If you would like to join us on Thursday 30th, please let me know.

Next week, we will have some footwork and my huge apologies to Andy who asked me forever ago to record this. I am sorry and have been totally remiss. I am going to start recording a lot of classes again now that our newer members are more established and I can step away from the screen a bit but remember that you can always, always un mute and ask questions. Anyway - the library is in need of new content and Clare and I are ON IT!!

I have really enjoyed busy classes and as always, am so impressed by your commitment and hard work. (If you are reading this and haven’t been to a class for a few weeks, this doesn’t apply to you!!) Seriously though, we all KNOW that it is regular, consistent work that gets the results.

Thoughts for the weekend.

There have been a lot of quotes this week that have really appealed to me but here are just a couple -

WOMEN

After a lifetime of being told to eat less, do more cardio and starve ourselves to stay thin, women are … filling up their plates, picking up their weights and stepping into their power”

I just LOVE, LOVE that!

Finally…

Better to the be the oldest in the class lifting weights, than the youngest resident in the nursing home!

Well done everyone.

Have a great weekend x

3 weeks to go until the Big HO HO

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:52:21 GMT

PILATES, STRENGTH, MOBILITY AND A LOT MORE

Did you know that Joe Pilates created Contrology? He devised "The Method" and was famous for working with dancers and gymnasts after he moved to NewYork. It was after his death in 1967 that the exercise method became known as Pilates.
Did you also know that he invented some of the studio equipment while he was interned during WW1, working with injured soldiers. He created the now famous Reformer from using springs from hospital beds and the machine has changed little in all these years. But they are large, expensive and not easily accessible so on the mat, we have become very creative. Using bands, balls, weights and imagination, we can achieve SO MUCH and from the comfort of our own home. You do not need a reformer to be able to do a lot of the reformer moves.

At the start of lockdown, I moved my classes online and have stayed here and now invite you to join my every growing community.

Why would you join online classes? Lots of us much prefer the face to face social interaction and I totally understand that but as the festive season descends, you may want to consider other options as routine and normal life fly straight out of the window. This could be a temporary fix or maybe you will commit to a three or six month program or look longer term.

Let's look at the excuses.....

I dont have time! There is a library of classes from 15 mins to 45 mins. You could do a quick arms or legs workout while the ad break is on.

But I am so busy . Ok. The live classes start at 8am and 9am and are 45 mins. That is a mere 45 minutes.... you can tick that box while the rest of the house is still trying to get dressed or you can do your class, get changed, make a cuppa and be sitting at your laptop by 9am.

I want to know I am doing it right! Good. Me too. I am up at the screen in the live classes watching you and if you are not sure or have any queries, I am available for a chat on the phone or a quick 121 zoom to check out what might be bothering you.

I like the social side of the classes! Great. So do we and that's why I open every class 15 mins early so we can have a chat and we also meet up in person. We have a Christmas lunch next week and are planning a long weekend to France in April as well as another walk and pub lunch in the new year.

I'm a beginner. I have never done it before! No problem. I have classes that will take best care of you as well as a whole section in the library devoted to understanding Pilates and the basic moves as well as specific technique classes to break down and build back up all the different exercises.

I dont want to just do Pilates! . GREAT! we do weight training, endurance work, abdominal focus, stretch and mobility, pelvic floor work, small equipment and masses more. PLUS it is all recorded so you can find so many different classes in the library.

There are so many teachers. I want to know I am in good hands! I am a Level 4 Personal trainer and Pilates teacher with over 20 years teaching experience. I also have over 5 years experience as a teacher trainer and examiner for a national training provider teaching personal trainers and Pilates teachers.
I have 11 Pilates teachers, 3 physiotherapists, one osteopath and one menopause specialist in my classes so I think that says a lot. Feel free to ask for references.

I dont have any equipment! Don't worry. We get very creative and I will give you ways to substitute just about everything.

But I won't be at home/I'm going on holiday . Even more reason to go online. All you need is your phone or tablet and a quiet corner to get your class fix. We enjoy seeing all the different locations you join from and are up to 18 countries so far plus various UK destinations, hotels, conference hall corridors, gardens, beaches, conservatories and much more.

So... why not come and find us online. We have 7 - 8 live classes a week plus a huge and ever growing library.
Why not gift a month to someone for Christmas? Vouchers can be arranged!

How much will this cost? All the above for £45 a month. 7 - 8 live classes a week plus a huge library and friendly old me on the end of the phone to talk through any queries and give you the best possible service I can. £45 a month - that is a mere £1.60 a day for bespoke classes ( always ask you to make requests and will focus on what you would like to work on), plus access 24/7 to our library.

Please visit https://www.julietspilates.com/online-booking to come and join our online community.

ALSO. I will be starting a new block of classes at The Arches Physiotherapy clinic in January and currently have 2 spaces for Tuesday 11.30am. Please get in touch for details

Happy Christmas everyone and I really look forward to seeing you in 2024

Get Fit, Raise Funds, Beat Cancer.

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 09:53:10 GMT

What’s happening?

I am walking The 25th London Moonwalk on May 20th as part of Team Lovely Jugilees and 8 weeks later, the Macmillan Mighty Hike Thames path. 2 marathons in 8 weeks and all for Cancer related charities.

How does that involve you?

Sadly, so many of us have been affected one way or another and I would like to bring as many people together to use fitness and fun as a way of raising funds. Choose as many classes as you like, take part in some exercise from the comfort of your own home and make a donation appropriate to your budget while sharing this with friends, colleagues and family to bring fitness into your community. Join as many classes as you like and please tell your friends. You can make one donation to cover all the classes you wish to join.

So what happens?

Start your May Day Bank Holiday early with some dancing.

I am kicking off Get Fit, Raise Funds, Beat Cancer by hosting a live Dance fit class in Beaulieu village hall on Thursday 27th April from 6.30pm with ballet dancer and dance fit teacher extrodinaire Kevin Thatcher. Lots of you know our own fabulous king of Dance, KT who will put you through your paces without realising how hard you are working. Dust off your dancing shoes and get ready to shimmy and strut your stuff to some big show tunes.

Bring a mat as I will take you through a good stretch afterwards and please bring a glass as we will be rewarding you with a glass of fizz. Can’t make the live event? Email me as we plan to Zoom the evening.

Guide price £10 - 15 to the fund raising link of your choice. Why not throw on a tutu or dress up to win yourself a second glass of bubbles?

I'm looking forward to some of my other guest teachers coming along so I get the chance to introduce them to you....

Please ping me an email if you are coming so I know for numbers!

So what's next?

Now we go online and I bring to you some amazing and hugely experienced teachers who will deliver to you, a range of different classes. Here is a quick look at who is joining the campaign and when the y are offering a class. Our new web page Get Fit, Raise Funds, Beat Cancer will be going live here on my website very soon and then I can share a lot more info and detail on all these lovely teachers but in the meantime, here are some dates for your calendar.

This is the calendar so far but please keep an eye on this as I will be updating… . More classes are coming......

Wednesday 3rd May. 10am. Tali Swart. Chair Pilates .

Friday 12th May. 6pm. Claire Pearson . Barre and Bubbles

Sunday 14th May 10am. Trudi Sinclair. Power Pilates session.

Monday 22nd May. 9am. Hannah Katsikides . Dance Fit.

Thursday 25th May. 9am. Charlie Peck . The Pelvic floor class .

Sunday 27th May 9.30am Hannah Smith . Fitness Intervals

Friday 2nd June 6pm. Caralyn Duignan . Pilates circuits.

Tuesday 6th June. 6.30pm. Juliet Nicholas 5 4 3 2 1

Friday 16th June 6pm. Caralyn Duignan. Yin Yoga and Yoga Nidra.

Wednesday 21st June, 7.45am Juliet Nicholas . Wakey Wakey

Friday 23rd June. 2pm. Annie Smith F1REE (high itensity)

Wednesday 5th July. Erin Copeland. 6pm. Classical Moves Pilates class.

Charlotte Dawson. Line Dancing - details to be confirmed.

What do you need to do?

Please select your classes and click on the link to the charity you woud like to support below. I am asking you to dig deep and do your best but also welcome you if you are making a smaller donation. Every penny counts. and everyone is welcome. Psst.... don't forget to tick Gift Aid!

Then go into "read more" where you will find all the information about your class and see the zoom link for that class. Join as many classes as you fancy. You do not need to make multiple donations - one payment buys you the classes you choose but of course, the more classes you join, the more we hope you will donate!

Oh! And please share this page as far and wide as you can!! Share at work, with family and friends and lets make this as big as we possibly can.

PLEASE NOTE THAT BY JOINING THE CLASSES, YOU CONFIRM YOU ARE SAFE TO EXERCISE. Please make sure you have space to throw down a mat, with plenty of light and ventilation and with no obvious obstruction. If during the session AT ANY TIME, you feel nauseous, dizzy or unwell, please stop exercising immediately and if symptoms persist, please contact your G.P.

Marathons and how Pilates can help.

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 13:37:11 GMT

I was really moved and inspired to watch Alex Roca online today completing a marathon. A big acheivement for anyone but for someone with Cerebral Palsy, a condition that affects motor skills and coordination, Alex has shown that there are no limits. What a brave and inspirational man.

As for the rest of us....

Marathon season is approaching .

Marathons have grown in popularity over the years and there is now a huge choice of where you might choose to run or walk your 26.2miles. Of course London is one of the bigges and most famous and having run it and walked it, I am once again in training to take part with my fellow team mates to complete the 25th London Moonwalk in May followed closely by the Macmillan Thames Valley marathon in July.

Running was my absolute passion and I still really miss it but due to boring knee issues, I am now a walker and having some endurance events in the diary has really focused my mind onto training, nutritrion, what trainers and socks to wear and finding time each week for th at long distance session, with every mile being loaded onto strava to share with my tream mates.

Running was how I discovered Pilates. I went along to a class, as a practising Personal Trainer (and running coach). I was in training for the London Marathon so I was pretty fit and very strong.

However, I could not believe just how hard it was. As is my style, I went off and studied and researched the many benefits, found a course (actually my first L3 course was with Future Fit who I now work for as a teacher trainer and assessor) and the rest, as they say.....

I miss running so much and I live vicariously through great friend, client and admin buddy Lou Johnson who, last year ran not one but two marathons.

Here is her story.

How Pilates helped me get two Marathon PBs less than six months apart.

It was October 2019 and I signed up to run the Midnight Sun Marathon, Tromso Norway in the June of 2020. Well we all know what happened in the March of that year. The new date was set, the18 ^th June 2022 was in the diary, like buses, it would also turn out that after years of trying I would get a place in the London Marathon which I would run on 2 ^nd October of the same year. The challenge was on for me to prepare myself mentally and physically for 32 weeks of hard training.

To give you some background, I am no stranger to running, prior to 2022, I had a few half marathons in my legs and in 2018 I ran my first marathon. Alongside my running I have practiced Pilates, and here I try to explain why.

Training and conditioning your body for endurance sports is a mindset. Without commitment you will never start but without consistency you will never finish.

A marathon is 26.2 miles, by the way, marathons are all the same length. However let's be clear, running or walking any distance you set you mind on is an achievement. Respect the distance whether that’s a 5km run, a half marathon, marathon, ultra or anything in between. Everyone is different.

I will say that again, respect the distance, trust in your plan and work darn hard to do the best you can. Running or any challenge is you battling you. Your mind vs you legs vs your heart. Which are you going to let win?

I am pretty stubborn, and when it comes to 'race day' itself there is very little that is going to stop me doing the best I can. When the legs want to stop my head takes over, when the head wants to stop I need my heart and my legs to step up. In order to get to the end I need to train and condition each of these over 16+ weeks (the length of a standard marathon training plan).

Running if I am being honest is almost the easy part right? Get a 16 Week Plan, mine came through my local running club, I suggest finding yours. Here they will mix it up, intervals, progressive runs, fartlek, long runs and recovery runs. Left foot, right foot repeat… when things are going well it’s easy but as the body starts to fatigue that’s when your ‘other’ training comes in.

Running is more than putting one foot in front of the other. It’s a battle of your mind against your legs, lungs, core and upper body. Get it all working in harmony and it’s beautiful, get one or more out a alignment and trust me you will know about it.

You need balance, mobility and strength – everything you get from Pilates.

Let’s start at floor level, when you run your legs work in isolation as you plant one foot down you lift the other, as that foot goes down the first foot lifts. Ultimately you will find yourself balancing on one leg at a time, albeit for a split second but the further you run, the more you fatigue the longer your feet spend on the ground… so that’s when balance core strength (and stubbornness) come in.

A lot of things happen in your body to enable you to stand on one leg, right?

When we run we are holding our core, we are moving our arms forward and backward with purpose, and training takes its toll. The muscles are doing repetitive actions, and lets be honest, ahem, how often do we schedule in training and strength work. I am not talking lifting weights, I am referring to body weight exercise that strengthen the core and the supper body and then stretch out those hip flexors and increase mobility in all the body. It’s doing those moves that you wouldn’t

do any other time! Scheduling in active recovery in the form of Pilates will make a difference.

Covid enabled me to increase the amount of Pilates I was doing, I went from one class of 60 mins a week to two something three classes a week of 45 mins. I was doing it from home, more often and I felt the difference.

To anyone looking to start running, perfect their 5km, marathon, ultra or anything in between, I would recommend some form of Pilates, it will strength the parts running/walking doesn't and it will help prevent injury. I am not sure i would be looking at two marathon PBs finishing the year with a time of 4 hrs 14mins 06 seconds without Pilates.

A HUGE thank you to Lou for sharing her story and for flagging up quite a few things that may very well get overlooked.

She did brilliantly last year (and also helped raise awareness and funds for Asthma). A seriously impressive time too!!

As a marathon runner and walker, I can honestly say that mile 18 is the halfway mark!! You will breeze past mile 13 but by mile 18, when you still have a 10k to do…. (Ask any endurance athlete - we get very focused on the maths!)

However there are lots of things to do in order to be the best version of yourself.

As Lou has said, don’t underestimate the psychological strength you need. When you run out of energy, it will be sheer grit and determination to get you over that finish line. You need to feel prepared and to believe that you can and then, you will!

Thank you Lou for this - Mix up your training to build a strong body capable of endurance. As well as adding up the miles, factor in some strength training for both upper and lower body. It will be muscle strength that keeps you going and don’t underestimate how many times your arms are pumping or swinging by your sides - give them some attention too.

GLUTES - these muscles are the engines and are a HUGE part of what can cause low back pain, overworked hamstrings, leg weakness…. I could go on....

Plus....

Cutting down on alcohol to keep the muscles hydrated ( SO boring)

Plenty of protein for muscle repair (both during and otherwise)

Water, water, water

Appropriate clothing….There was a famous saying (from my previous life) of “No foot, no ‘oss”…. Well - the same applies here.

STRETCH, MOBILISE AND PRACTISE ACTIVE RECOVERY. It cannot all be about effort but a balance of recovery, rest and relaxation.

If you want to know more, then hop over to my classes - there is so much more to learn (and I will be sharing our Just Giving page soon!)

If the full marathon is not quite your cup of tea, then you might turn your mind to a half. Mariana who is a regular online with us, is heading to her first half marathon in a couple of weeks and had this to say....

" I have have a running plan which I am folowing, but I have to say your Pilates sessions have be en very good in aiding recovery a nd keeping me moving. The inner thigh mussels, quads and buttock muscles have been working very hard and the stretch and strength exercises we have been doing in last few weeks are brilliant I am looking forward to our next class.

Thank you "

Thank YOU Mariana and very good luck to you!

Below is a pic of me and my eldest who I introduced to running at the start of her A Levels and we have done many 10k's and a few half marathons together.

Oh! and the Moonwalk fundraising blog will be coming soon!

New Paragraph

March. It's going to be a busy one!

Sun, 26 Feb 2023 16:40:15 GMT

Coming up from my screen to yours... .

How fast has February whizzed by? March is tapping on the door and don't we welcome it along with the days finally getting longer, the crocuses and daffs popping up and just a sniff of good things ahead.

I have a very busy calendar for you so please read on.

Firstly, I am delighted to say that our September Kefalonia Pilates holiday sold out in 24 hours!! Don't despair... plans are alreaady afoot for June and Sept 24! (psst... also looking at one that involves snow and skis.... )

I continue to work on my own self development and last week, as well as teaching our 34 moves masterclass on Tuesday (which continues to teach me as I teach you), I spent all Wednesday filming for Future Fit Training Ltd as one of their teacher assessors (pic at bottom).

While I have stepped back from face to face tutoring, I do still occasionally deliver courses and will be teaching the Advanced Level 4 workshop next weekend to Pilates teachers in training. Also, I am currently studying the Level 5 Life Coaching course that Future Fit have just launched and I will be delivering this course to students in the not too distant future.

One of the perks of tutoring is all the fascinating people I meet. You may think that Personal Trainers and Pilates teachers all head in the same direction but let me tell you that I absolutely love the massively diverse way in which people use their qualifications.

I recently met Andy on a course and found his line of work so interesting that I had to ask him to join us and share some of his knowledge and fortunately for us, he agreed.

Not to be missed! Please join us online on WEDNESDAY MARCH 8th at 7pm

Andy is a Psychotherapist, Personal Trainer (Level 4 Lower Back Pain Specialist) and Pilates Teacher, based in East London and the City).

Here is a little info from him -

“Lower Back Pain, Stress and the Hip Flexors - Calming Mind and Body through Pilates”

"Did you know:

Anxiety, stress, trauma and depression can make chronic pain worse (and even create it?)

That the brain decides whether to feel pain, even if the body is fine?

That visualisation can distract the brain and end pain signals?

That the Hip Flexors are activated in the Fight/Flight response to trauma and that trauma and anxiety can be “held” in the muscles as tension, creating pelvic and lower back pain?

Chronic lower back pain is a condition of the mind and body with both physical and psychological causes and NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) recommends treatment including both exercise and psychotherapy. In this workshop, we will explore how Pilates can be combined with psychotherapy techniques to calm the nervous system / mind through mindful movement as well as increasing physical mobility and core strength, to reduce and prevent pain."

I am thrilled to host Andy and invite you to join and take part or sit and observe and learn. Whatever suits you best. I really can't wait for this one!

Once again, get those quads and glutes quivering with the fabulous Flow and Glow Pilates. Clare will put you through your paces on Friday March 17th at 8am with her wonderful BARRE class.

MARCH MASTERCLASS. March 21st. 7pm As a teacher, what exercise do you find the hardest to perform or teach or just understand? Do you avoid certain exercises because you are not confident in how to deliver them or adapt and modify?

Let's break them down and really get to grips with all the many ways that we can perform different moves and make them safest and most effective for our class. To book, please click the link below.

For all the above, members join via the link in your live calendar. Non members, please get in touch if you would like details on how to join us.

All this is available to subscibed members .... oh as well as 7 live classes a week including small equipment, back care, strength, full body stretch, pure Pilates, HIIT and circuits... with the invitation for you to get in touch with your own personal requests... did I mention an ever growing library of classes for all levels, time frames and interests. Don't forget that when I am not teaching you, I am teaching teachers so you continue to be in very good hands! Have a happy, healthy March and if you are not a member, what are you waiting for? join us here

This was last week when I spent a whole day filming for Future Fit Training, teaching all the advanced exercises for their Level 4 online course content. I am just a teacher who teaches teachers (and is constantly training, researching and studying so you really are in the best hands!)

STRENNNNNNGTH.... why we need it. A strong start to 2023

Sun, 12 Feb 2023 09:35:18 GMT

Here’s to a strong 2023.

Well January didn’t hang around for long!

Those who regulary attend my live online classes will know that we started the year hard! Apart from a little recap and revision, January was all about strength . Many of us will have gained a few pounds over the Christmas break and will look to the start of a New Year to shed that unwanted load and typically we assume that cardiovascular (C.V.) exercise will do the job.

Stop right there!

While C.V. exercise is hugely beneficial and has a very important role in our life, it is lean muscle that burns energy and therefor shifts weight. Read that again ….

I am a big fan of functional movement and building strength and therefore we have been lifting weights, pulling bands, pushing into loops, working with our own body weight and working hard on muscle strength and endurance. I am a firm believer that Pilates can help with balance, coordination, range of movement with strength being a key part of our practise that can only enhance other areas of exercise, sport and daily activity.

The ACSM guidelines (American College of Sports Medicine aka the fitness bible) advises that everyone over the age of 50 does some form of weight training.

WHY?

Our bodies have a natural method of removing old bone and building new. Over the age of around 50 howevever, we are at risk of losing more than we can replace. After around the age of 50, lean muscle mass starts to reduce by as much as up to 5 to 10% per decade. For women, the Menopause significantly speeds up bone loss and increases the risk of osteoporosis. Oestrogen helps to slow the natural break down of bone and when those hormone levels start to lower and drop, bone density is direclty affected.

Activities that stress the bones will push the bone forming cells into working harder. Pushing, pulling and load bearing will lead to stronger bones. Research shows that working against resistance also promotes growth and strength in ligaments and tendons.

You are NEVER TOO OLD TO START

One thing that infuriates me is to define people by age. Ernestine Shepherd (@ernieshepherd) started lifting weights at the age of 56 and is now the world’s oldest female body builder at the age of 86.

Joan MacDonald (@trainwithjoan) is an inspirational wonder who started training seriously at 70 and at 75 years old is 4 stone lighter and a huge social media influencer with a strong healthy body that defies her age.

Back to that weight though. A very common misconception is that muscle weighs more than fat.

No it doesn’t.

A pound of muscle weighs the same as a pound of fat which is the same as a pound of feathers or a pound of rocks.

However… muscle is more DENSE than fat therefore it takes up less room. When we say we want to lose weight, what we actually mean is we want to reduce body fat. We don’t want to lose blood, water, internal organs, muscle, bone density etc. etc. … We want to lose body fat and essentially VISCERAL fat that is stored deep in the belly and wraps around our internal organs.

We know that the energy in food and drinks is measured by calories and if we take in more energy than we use, then we store the excess, and it converts into fat. Reverse the process and reverse the results.

GREAT NEWS HERE – lean muscle tissue needs more energy therefore burns more calories even when we are resting . Our BASAL METABLIC RATE is the rate at which we burn energy at rest. When we build more muscle, two things happen. We reduce overall body measurements and enjoy a leaner and stronger body as well as increasing our BMR.

This means that when we are lying on the sofa watching our favourite drama (Happy Valley season 3 OMG), our body is burning more energy even at rest.

Did you know that body builders preparing for competition will set their alarm to get up and eat during the night - that is how much energy or calories their muscles are burning (and you won't see a single one of them on the treadmill!).

With a lean and strong body you reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, diabetes, stroke and some cancers as well as with regular exercise you improve your spatial awareness, your coordination, motor skills and improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Did I mention the release of those feel good hormones that will leave you feeling more positive and energised.

Grab a couple of tins of soup or fill up two empty milk cartons with water or invest in some inexpensive weights (middle of Lidl has currently got dumbbells and resistance bands) and add some strength work to your day. As little as 5 minutes a day will produce positive results.

Don't just think about lifting weights though. Throw in some. hills and rugged terrain to your weekly walking, take up swimming and work against the resistance of water and think of using your own body weight for resistance.

Please remember to increase your protein and include more fibre rich foods to aid muscle repair and growth so if (when!) you are upping the exercise, turn to healthy sources such as lean meat, oily fish, nuts, seeds, lentils, tofu, quinoa, eggs and leafy greens. NHS guidelines promote the need for 0.75g of protein for every kilo you weigh and to increase that if you are doing strength training type work.

You are NEVER too old, it is NEVER too late and you will feel stronger, more positive and more confident with every workout….and enjoy a couple of biscuits with your coffee knowing they will be burnt up and gone before you know it.

Psssst…. Remember that balance is key.Make sure you build in a day or 2 of active recovery every week. Always factor in some stretching and gentle mobility and find time for some mindfulness or how about you try some basic meditation or treat yourself to a massage.

What are you waiting for? Go on - just 2 mins of lifting some weights to get you started.. xx

It's beginning to look a lot like...

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 13:56:29 GMT

Give (or receive!) the gift of wellness, health, mobility, and a community with the gift of a Juliet's Pilates monthly subscription.

Get 30 days of live, interactive online classes, where no class is the same. Have access to an extensive library of recorded classes that are accessible any time of day or night, anywhere in the world. Practise with a highly experienced teacher and teacher trainer with 20+ years of experience who not only sees your every move in class but I am on the end of the phone to help and support you. We also have a fabulous online community around the UK as well as our international members beaming in from abroad.

ALL THIS FOR JUST £40 A MONTH

Here's what my members have to say....

The classes are convenient. At 45 mins long, I can join the 8 am class 3 days a week and be at my desk by 9 am.

The 9 am class works best for me. I can drop the kids at the school bus, and then it's 'me time'. I join the class and complete my workout in time for a coffee.

I can't always make the live classes, but the library is invaluable it's as if Juliet is in the room and you work (almost!) as hard as if it was a live class!

More benefits of the £40 a month subscription...

All live classes are 45 mins.
The library has a huge range of classes to choose from in ability, type of class, and length.
When you are short of time choose from 'The snack bar'.
If you need specific mobility I've got your back, with classes focusing on specific areas.
There are beginner classes, small equipment classes, circuits, ab blasters, and a leg stretcher.
Find specialist presentations in the library from our pelvic health specialist and osteopath.

Coming this December for Members.

Variety is the spice of life, and December sees you enjoying some rest from me, as I invite some wonderful guest teachers to cover some of my classes. So keep an eye out on the calendar and in the library for the following.

The 34 moves
Christmas at the barre
Deep stretch and relax

PLUS a Christmas gift from me to you. A free class for you and your friends...
Please join me and my members in the 12 moves of Christmas on Wednesday 14 December at 7 pm. Please follow link at top of page

Thank you to all my wonderful members for another memorable year, I look forward to a fun and festive time with you.

Juliet x

Pilates for Everyone from Your Lounge to the Middle of an Ocean

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 13:19:33 GMT

Pilates or Everyone From Your Lounge to the Middle of an Ocean

Row, row, row your boat

Gently down the stream

Merrily merrily, merrily, merrily

Life is but a dream

As you sing out the nursery rhyme you conjure up an idyllic scene of small children in their little boats paddling their way down a tranquil stream dodging the waterlilies and saying high to the frogs as they paddle past and getting gently splashed by the fishes jumping in and out of the water.

The twist

Well, now imagine one boat, two people, four oars and 3000 mile of ocean in front of them, unaided for around 50 days. It’s possibly not quite the same cute tranquil picture.

It’s a challenge of mental strength, physical stamina and the ability to look after yourself whilst at sea. Rowing night and day, no respite. You are in a boat 9.2m in length and 1.9m across, in the hands of the elements and the weather gods. Nowhere to run, nowhere to escape.

I’d like to introduce you to Sean Geiser, a South African living in the Bahamas and his cousin Darryl from here in the UK. I met them at the New Forest Show back in July. I mean a rowing boat is easy to spot when amongst all the country and horsey activity. Instantaneously I was captivated by their mission, Two-Inna-Row. They are competing in the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge 2022. A rowing adventure. A journey that will take them from La Gomera, Canary Islands to English Harbour, Antigua, and their personal goal to raise £50,000 for Children with Cancer UK, The Cancer Society of The Bahamas and the Kid Cancer Foundation along the way.

What has this got to do with Juliet’s Pilates?!

Naturally, as someone passionate about endurance sports, I was then interested in their diet and fitness plan. I wanted to know more. When I found out that there were some lower back complaints, I pulled my Pilates teacher hat firmly onto my head and asked if I could help in my own way to support them. Juliet’s Pilates has offered them my knowledge and experience to try and make their journey as comfortable as I can.

So, I have done some research of my own, and how utterly terrifying and exciting does this sound.

Each team will row in excess of 1.5 million oar strokes during a race.
The fastest 24 hours ever is 107.45 nautical miles covered.
The fastest row across the Atlantic was a four-man team who finished in 29 days, 14 hours and 34 minutes
At its deepest, the Atlantic Ocean is 8.5km / 5.28 miles deep.
The waves that the rowers experience can measure up to 20ft high.
Each rower is expected to use 800 sheets of toilet paper during their crossing.
In the 2016 race, solo rower Daryl Farmer arrived in Antigua after 96 days, rowing without a rudder to steer with for nearly 1200miles/40 days.
The fastest solo across the Atlantic was Mark Slats who completed in 30 days, 7 hours and 49 minutes.
Rowers burn in excess of 5,000 calories per day.
There is no toilet on board – rowers use a bucket!
The average rower loses around 8kg during a crossing.
In the 2018 race, solo rower Kelda Wood (Row 2 Raise) was kept company by a whale for nearly 7 days.

You can join this journey too… and don’t worry you don’t have to row the Atlantic!

This September, which coincidently is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the charities they are raising money for, I have introduced some rowers specific Pilates Classes, targeted at Sean and Darryl needs. After discussions with them, I have devised exercises to help cover core, shoulder, back and leg strength in addition to the necessary stretching and mobility. I am also throwing in some breathing exercises to help towards the mental challenge they face. They will also learn exercises that they will be able to do whilst at sea to help them maintain the bodies in the best possible way they can within the space they have.

What happens next?

On the 12th of December Sean and Darryl will start their challenge. This means they have the next three months to prepare, and the Juliet’s Pilates community is here to help get them into the best possible shape and you can come along for the journey too.

So, whether you are row or not, these classes are for you. Please come and join me, and let’s look at how we can exercise and keep mobile whilst not physically being able to go far!

Members. Already a member? Tune into my 8am class on a Monday morning and keep an eye on the calendar as extra classes will be added.

Non-Members. Looking to join up? Get access to this live class along with all other classes and my online library by subscribing here https://www.julietspilates.com/online-booking

Find out more!

Two-Inna-Row. two-inna-row.com

Talisker Whiskey Challenge. taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com

It's our 2nd Anniversary!!

Tue, 22 Mar 2022 18:00:59 GMT

TWO YEARS ONLINE!

Happy 2 years ONLINE!!!

I mean technically I was not fully yet online - but the cogs were whirring, the plans were forming and we were, as of 8pm 2 years ago today, locked down.

THREE DAYS…. No sleep, a lot of tears and some pretty fantastic anxiety attacks and we were off!!! Straight into a full month of Facebook lives… every single day… It was very exciting and very terrifying and so we were launched online!!

WHAT a couple of years it has been. To think back to those early days when we were all a bit trepidatious of this thing “Zoom” and how did one sign up and what was mute and quite honestly, just what was the etiquette?

Passwords did NOT work, wifi was being stolen by children homeschooling and it was too much bother. Spouses tended to wander semi naked, post shower in the back ground and pets and small children bombed the class….those days when no-one was quite sure who could actually see what and OH the delight when it was realised that you could stay in your pyjamas and forget about your hair.... well, YOU could....!!!!

Fast forward and we are quite the online community. I am proud to have taught live into 11 countries and counting with the grand accolade of being recognised, half asleep and staring at my coffee, at 6am at Bristol Airport just a few weeks ago by someone who’s mother had joined from Bahrain. Bertie has been recognised several times as “the Pilates dog” … we are, I believe, quite established!

Think back to Lockdown 1 when lots of you joined every single day and how STRONG and FLEXIBLE you all became with your daily practise. Lots of you accomplished some moves that had evaded you for years and with the help of toilet rolls, tins of soup, towels, dressing gown cords and a lot of laughter, we got very creative and incredibly strong.

Do you remember our first online Summer party when we all wore hats and danced to ABBA in our sunny gardens or going into Autumn and playing online Charades which worked suprisingly well.

We have had “From the Sofa” sessions including our wonderful Pelvic floor workshops, cookery demonstrations, read the book and meet the author, skincare tutorials and our back care and common injuries tutorial.

We had the 28 days live on Facebook at the start of Lockdown, all free, all recorded and all loaded into my blog, we had the November challenge which saw me posting every single day, including dressing for dinner Friday, socially distanced sparklers, relax and read a book, dancing for exercise….. and who could forget or indeed, keep requesting Pilates and Prosecco (oft repeated elsewhere but you saw it here first and it even got a mention on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen!!

Who could forget the Bond inspired week of classes to celebrate the new movie launch, our Olympics themed month of classes and two year’s of Christmas jumper day and The 12 moves of Christmas…. Not to mention HIIT, Circuits, Power, Back care, Mobility and Stretch, small equipment, Technique Tuesday, upside down and back to front, Pilates and the wall, my Teacher trainer workshops, sequence and flow, Abs burner, weights and bands…Rollers, Magic Circles, The Pole, The fit band, resistance band, The 34 moves.. forwards AND back again, our “between lock down” live classes with coffee and cake in the Forest when we got mugged by a herd of donkeys……We have had Sports Specific classes where I have welcomed horse riders (we used kitchen chairs), Pilates for Golf, for Running, for Tennis, for Sailing....

We have got to know each other virtually. Certainly we have missed the face to face interaction but we have shared SO much by zooming into each other’s houses….. We sing happy birthday, greet new babies and puppies…admire house moves, envy at holiday destination zoom ins, .....there have been new friendships formed when people realise that they live near by, we have sourced exclusive wallpaper, dog sitting companies, flight dilemmas, plumbers and decorators, advice on technology admin - only recently one member visited another who they found lived very close to research rowing machines…. We have house guests and family members joining in, mothers and daughters, sisters and friends all zooming in from different countries to see each other and to say that they can do the same class together from London, Dubai, The USA, Greece, France, Bahrain and so many more as well as those scattered across the UK - in one class we had Cornwall to Perthshire to Pembrokeshire to Dublin.

I think one of the best stories is the Grandma FaceTiming family in Canada after one full lockdown and telling her (utterly stunned, teenage) grandkids that her wifi was weak so she was hot spotting from her mobile data and was screen sharing from her laptop onto her tv so that she could see them all so much more clearly. All tricks learned from our community where people found skills they never knew they had and shared their knowledge to help others join in.

So, as I continue to have sound and camera difficulties (consistency is KEY), and we are technically no longer “The Lounge” but “The Studio” aka my spare bedroom… as we no longer have to cope with Bertie the Brilliant Barging into class (do miss that a bit), as we see new members still joining and our online community growing ever stronger, it just remains for me to say THANK YOU ALL for your support, your humour, your energy, your friendship, your loyalty, your checking your phone when you think I can't see you, YOUR CRAWLING ON HANDS AND KNEES TO GET YOUR COFFE THINKING YOU ARE BELOW THE CAMERA, views of your ceilings, your wonderful pyjamas, your pretending to freeze when really you are just having a lie down….your pets and kids joining in, your cat's bottom in front of your camera, your patience, your hard work and last but not least, your subscriptions…. Here’s to a very happy life online.

So - WHY are we staying online? Well, here are a few from me and below are a few from you!!!

Cost - for the same price as you used to pay for one class a week, you now have access to 7 live classes a week and a library of hundreds of classes on demand

Convenience - no parking, petrol, commuting, traffic jams and faffing. No childcare issues when someone is ill at home. Being able to sign for a parcel, let the builder in, be around for the isolating child. Being able to join in when you are isolating. Being able to join in when I am isolating!.

Time - opening your screen 5 mins before and being straight back into your life seconds after.

Accessibility- from wherever you are which includes bedrooms, kitchens, landings, hallways, conservatories, garages, Premier Inns, holiday homes, motor homes, gardens, abroad and at home.

Community - being able to sit in your own kitchen with a coffee and chat with your online friends before the class

There are just a few reasons why I think it works!!!

As to WHY JULIET’S PILATES ONLINE? ……in your words…

“ ‘Why Juliets’s Pilates Online’

The only good thing to come out of the pandemic was to be reunited with Juliet’s Pilates again.

The only downside to moving to Somerset in December 2021 was leaving Juliet’s Pilates behind, and the friends I had made at the gym and in the classes. So when Juliet went online in March 2020 it was a pure joy to be reunited, to be able to do ‘real time’ classes with others at a time we could only leave home for an hour a day and to feel we hadn’t been truly cut off from humanity.

Now, even though we are free, it is just perfect to connect online to do just as strenuous classes as if we had Juliet breathing down our necks in the flesh, four days a week, with others we can count as friends, and all without having to drive and park. Even from miles away Juliet’s beady eyes can see if we aren’t doing it right! If we can’t make a class there is an online library of countless classes of all abilities.

The true joy to be able to do regular Pilates with Juliet online, who makes every class interesting and different, is immeasurable. It may be virtual but we still have time for a chat and a laugh and it really is as if we are in the same room.

Keep up the good work Juliet and never come offline.

------------------------------------------------------------

“Dear Juliet,

Your Zoom class has been a wonderful link to normal life from the grey clouds of the Covid pandemic. Juliet M remembers me saying, as we heard of the first outbreak in Wuhan, that it would be with us within two weeks! I got back from NZ on 16th March and J encouraged me to sign up almost immediately.

Your determination to master the necessary technical skills has always amazed me and I am sure you have had to pay considerable amounts for all sorts of kit. The Green Goddess look is one I remember!“

------------------------------------------------------

“ Hi Juliet,

Simple. Because you are the best of some ten Pilates Instructors I have had in over twenty years and I have now been working with you for over ten years. I can understand what you are attempting from your instructions without having to watch your demonstration so can close my eyes and concentrate on getting it right. From you I have learned a massive amount about how my muscles and skeleton work.”

---------------------------------------------------------

You kept us sane when we needed you most. Now we have fabulous classes we can do anywhere, anytime. xx

--------------------------------------------------------

You've been incredible - you bring so much enthusiasm and joy xxx

---------------------------------------------------

Happy 2nd Anniversary! And thank you for helping me get through the last two years - I love my mat time with you, even if sometimes it might not look like I do!!!!

-------------------------------------------

SO glad I was introduced to @julietspilates!

-----------------------------------------------

............and HERE'S to the next 20 years!!!!!!

Competition Time!!

Fri, 15 Oct 2021 06:38:45 GMT

Competition time.

Competition time….

For the opportunity to win a free month of classes…

Please find and follow @julietspilates on Instagram (If you are not Instagram, you can always enter by using a friend to follow me!)
Like the post “Competition Time”
Comment #MYPILATESMAT and tag a friend
for a bonus entry in the draw, share in your stories and tag @JulietsPilates
The winner will be drawn from all entrants on Friday 3 ^rd December and will be given the following month totally free.

Members only - Another way to get involved is to recommend my classes to a friend and once they are subscribed I will give you a whopping half price discount on your next month! (T&Cs apply - Offer only applies once and for subsequent referrals, I will give you a £10 discount) - remember to tell me who they are so that I can link you.

#MYPILATESMAT - take a photo of your mat/your dog on your mat/your leggings choice of the day - get creative?!! post in stories, add the hashtag #MYPILATESMAT and dont forget to tag @julietspilates. Just because?!

Juliet's Pilates Autumn/Winter Member Exclusives

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 13:55:51 GMT

Autumn/Winter Member Exclusives.

Christmas is just around the corner. There I have said it!!! For those who have been coming to my classes for a while will know this is my favourite time of year. This will also be our second one online together. That got me thinking - how can we celebrate our successes and the progress we have all made in our Pilates practice over the last 18 or so months.

Being online has so many positives and amongst all the benefits are lots of little extras that are accessible from your comfy sofa. Whilst I know we are not face-to-face; I hope you still enjoy the classes and feel pushed as if we were in the same room. Online gives us a constant in our lives, and I think you’ll agree we all need that at the moment.

I appreciate your commitment and your loyalty. To show you just how much, I am now absolutely thrilled to announce the launch of Juliet’s Pilates Autumn/Winter Member Exclusives!

These extras are all included in your current membership, and are in addition to all the live classes, and the huge library of recorded classes you have access to on catch up, let’s not forget the educational, informative, exercise, wellness, and fun we have too! There is definitely something for everyone and a VERY good reason to stay online, all for £1.43 a day!

I really am very proud to be able to collaborate with some amazing fellow businesses who bring incredible skill, experience, and knowledge to educate, entertain and inform. I am quite knocked out with what I now bring to your living room… exclusive to subscribed members of Juliet’s Pilates.

Share the Juliet’s Pilates love with friends and when they subscribe you get a huge £10 off your next block!

Here’s what’s coming up in the final three months of 2021…

October

4 - 8 October. No Time To Cry.

It’s all about the new Bond film and you know I love to grab any opportunity so from 4th to 8th October I bring to you a week of Bond themed classes.

All the details can be found on your live calendar but expect some themed music, some Bond girl Booty and 007 abs - if you enjoyed our Olympics themed classes then you will love these.

Evening wear and gadgets are optional.

Pelvic Floor Tutorial

T his is our 4th Pelvic floor tutorial and follow up class. Karen has been a huge contributor to our online content, and I feel very privileged that she gives me so much of her time and experience - all born out of walking our Labradors one rainy day earlier and discussing ideas.

Karen is close friend and regular attendee in my classes, and we are so lucky to benefit from her extensive experience.

More information - Karen MacLeod is a Chartered Physiotherapist with a Postgraduate Masters degree and has spent the last 20 years as a pelvic health specialist working both in a hospital setting and in the private sector. Although now retired, Karen enjoys sharing the knowledge and practical advice that she has gathered from a wide range of experience and involvement in a global network of educators and therapists.

Her 4th tutorial is now up in “Technique classes” in your library and my follow up class is on Tuesday 12th October at 9am. Details in your live calendar.

Tuesday October 19th. 7pm. In Just One Day

Join us for a wonderful online chat with one of our own JP’s Member, superstar author and wine expert, Helen McGinn aka The Knackered Mother.

Helen and I have known each other almost all our lives through village life (although I do have just a few years on her!!!). Hels is a regular in our classes and she honestly does work like a demon! The master of the advanced rocking and a pretty mean Teaser to name a couple.

You can buy a copy of Helen’s latest book here (other outlets also available!) and then join us from the comfort of your sofa, glass in hand and ask Helen all about her books. She may even answer the occasional wine question if we are lucky!!!

You can also get lots of e ntertainment as well as info on what to buy from the wine department by following @knackeredmother (Instagram)

Tuesday 26th October. 7pm. Back Care.

SO many people have common back pain and we should all really should join this session. I am delighted to introduce my cousin and Osteopath superstar Monica Blackburn who is going to deliver a talk and take questions from “the screen”. It was a real coincidence to see that we work in fields that complement each other and I am really chuffed to be able to collaborate with my cousin in this way!

Monica will talking about lower back pain and sciatica from an Osteopathic and physiological point of view, and how Pilates can manage and prevent such episodes of pain.

More information – Monica is a registered Osteopath with over ten years clinical experience, working in both central London and Hertfordshire. Alongside her private clinical practice, she has also worked with amateur athletes in both the rock climbing and marathon disciplines and taught Osteopathy students at the London College of Osteopathic Medicine in Central London. Monica has a strong interest in movement based and complementary health practices and has benefited greatly personally from a regular Pilates practice. MFB Osteopathy mfb-osteopathy.com

The link to the session is in your calendar. Monica also regularly posts educational and inspiring information on her Instagram, so look up @mfbosteo.

November

Tuesday 9th Nov 5 - 7pm. Christmas Pop Up

Sarah Branson from KemptonBranson is doing a Pop Up Christmas market at East Boldre Playing fields hall for members and friends of Juliet’s Pilates. Sarah and I have known each other for many years and she has been a regular in classes over the last decade or so!! I am really looking forward to an intimate “friends of” evening and I will be pouring the Prosecco and warming the mince pies for you all as you have a browse.

Want to know what to expect - over to Sarah - “KemptonBranson is a small and perfectly formed independent online boutique based in Lymington. We love a relaxed and informal look, embrace all body shapes and as much sass as you can muster! Now 6 years old and the home of the infamous ‘ultimate tracky pant’ mixed with some chunky knits, Melly jeans, leather bags and a few sparkly gems, KB is one for your little black book as a ‘go to’ solution for clothing and gifts.”

You can visit @kemptonbranson over on Instagram to get all the latest deals and regular discounts. All the information is in your calendar. kemptonbranson.com

Tuesday November 23. 7pm. Get your Healthy Winter Glow

Diana and I go back a very long way - in fact she was my case study and very patient guinea pig when I was doing my Personal trainer Level 3 qualification some 20 years ago. I have watched Diana’s career grow and fly and I am delighted that she is bringing her very considerable knowledge and experience to share with us.

Diana is a multiple award winner - Beauty Therapist of the Year, PHAB Service Star (the beauty Industry equivalent to a Michelin star) and Dermalogica Brand Ambassador to name a few of her accolades and has recently opened her new and beautiful salon in Lymington https://www.orchidsretreat.co.uk .

In our live tutorial Diana will be presenting, Three Rules of Maintaining a Healthy Glow this Winter. Link in your calendar. Follow @orchidsretreat on Instagram for regular posts on skincare advice.

December

Tuesday 7th December. 7pm. Christmas Canapes

Lots of you will remember all the wonderful recipes we enjoyed from Annabelle in our November challenge last year and I am thrilled that she is back!

Annabelle launched her catering company The Kitchen Social following her graduation in Culinary Nutrition from Leith’s Cookery School, London early in 2019. Building on a passion for cooking for her family over sixteen years, her food focusses on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to create delicious dishes that are nutritionally balanced. She is evangelical about the principles of healthy eating which form the basis of all her company's cooking.

For the cook along for this event Annabelle will be showing us how to whizz up a couple of easy and delicious canapés for Christmas using a few seasonal, simple ingredients. You can learn more about the Kitchen Social here thekitchen-social.com and follow @the_kitchen_social on Instagram to see loads of delicious recipes.

Join us for a live cookery class from Annabelle’s kitchen by clicking the link in your calendar.

Tuesday December 14th. 7pm - Blow-dry bootcamp!!

The amazing Andrew has been colouring and cutting my hair for over 10 years and he is now going to share some tips, techniques and advice on getting that perfect blowdry!

Since starting his hairdressing career in 2008, Andrew trained with Goldwell in London and in Lymington before opening his own salon in the New Forest. Andrew has fresh, creative flair and a passion for colour. Andrew enjoys learning new techniques, sharing ideas & inspiring his talented team.

Andrew will be showing some skills on my hair as well as watching what you are doing so that he can advise you best. Bring your product questions too and let’s have some fun. Link in calendar and follow @andrewdavidhair on Instagram to see some of his latest colours and styles. andrewdavidhair.com

So, pour yourself a drink, wash your hair and open zoom at 7pm to learn how to get that salon look!

I look forward to seeing you on your mat or at one of these events soon .

Juliet x

Happy Birthday to us!!

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 14:38:17 GMT

IT'S OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY TODAY .

Happy birthday to us!!

WOOHOOO

One year ago today, I taught my first online class. After the mutterings going on, people were starting to get nervous and I turned up to an empty hall. I decided to bite the bullet and deliver a FB live instead from Beaulieu village hall on Tuesday 16 March at 9am.

I was so nervous I thought I was going to be sick (and those nerves reappear for every new style of class/introducing a new piece of kit/anything new - I think a lot of my fellow teachers will agree about the nerves - no matter how experienced we are, it’s always a bit scary presenting to an audience).

What a ride it’s been since then! We have had workshops, themed classes, our summer party, (everyone dressed up and over 70 of us danced in our sunny gardens - it was amazing) - 21 days Facebook live (launching Pilates and Prosecco), 30 day November challenge (be warned - consecutive day events are so exhausting and thank goodness for Lou at Box Pr who was in the background checking all soash meedya and chasing me up. - never underestimate the work that goes into THAT bright idea!

We have grown in both class size and geographical reach and include HIIT, circuits, Barre, LBT, power Pilates, Pilates using a towel, a toilet roll, tins of soup....we have zoomed from our sunny gardens, we have compared Christmas decorations and we even zoomed from out in the forest when we managed a couple of sessions last year with the laptop on a picnic table and ponies and donkeys visiting us .

We reach to Cornwall, Scotland, Cardiff, Dubai, Bahrain, The French Alps, Canada, USA, Germany... I’ve had Teacher Trainer workshops, we had Christmas charades, book club and wine talks and A LOT of Pilates and Prosecco ... those pictures pop up a lot!

I have grown my tech skills dramatically as have many of you! Many a grandchild has been rather gobsmacked when Granny has suggested hotspotting from their mobile for an independent WiFi connection or screen sharing to a bigger screen (love, love that )!!!

My front room looks like a recording studio with lights, tripods, webcam, music and mic kit and cabling ... don’t assume that no studio hire means no financial outlay.

Many have suggested that because I don’t hire venues, I must be better off?

Never forget the back office work!!

The hour on screen is the result of nearly 20 years of study, research, ongoing career development, teaching practise, attending courses as well as admin, banking, customer relations, marketing, class planning, editing and storage of recordings, ongoing CPD and standardisation training, business development...

Paid Subscriptions include Zoom, Vimeo for all recordings to be stored, online payment programs, insurance, calendar and booking programs, website costs... not to mention all the now not so new equipment.

It’s been EXHAUSTING!! EXHAUSTING.

I’m shattered!! It is very, very hard work and any fellow teachers reading this will I’m sure, agree. Anyone who uses Zoom will agree that we all get screen blind/Zoomsick!

There has been more than one occasion when I have closed my laptop and just laid on my mat with a few tears... (and googled application forms for Waitrose)!!

There have been plenty of sleepless nights, shushing barking dogs, ignoring the doorbell and OMG the technology issues!!! Everyone who attends my classes know that bin day is Tuesday, announced by Bertie and most of us now know eachother’s pets!!

I’ve never done so much Pilates as I have this last year (as we no longer walk around the class to correct) and as my regulars will know, my old body has (and currently is) fallen apart from time to time (a lifetime of intensive sport, riding and long distance running NOT Pilates!)

BUT.... we have carried on!!! My membership has quietly grown consistently month on month and we have such a brilliant community of which I’m so proud. New friendships have formed and so many of us are planning now how we can meet up to see each other for real after only knowing each other on screen.

I’ve been highly amused at how many people forget I have two screens and think that when my back is to the camera, I am no longer watching you.... yes you know who you are!!!!...as do those of you who, despite emails, posts and a live calendar with full class instruction, still wait til the start of class to run around finding what you need!!!

We have had plenty of pyjamas and bed hair turnouts (but enough about me ) and no shortage of family members and pets doing a Zoom crash.

THANK YOU all

Thank you those who turn up to EVERY SINGLE live class, thank you to those who choose only to do the recorded classes and stay behind the scenes. Thank you to those who have been with me for 12 months and thank you to those who just signed up last week or dip in and out. Thank you for giving a four week block of classes as a birthday/Christmas/mother’s day present

- what better gift than the gift of teaching someone how to exercise safely and build a strong body?

When I went back to some live f2f classes in that little window last year, the difference between those who had kept up with their online classes versus those who had missed 6 months was staggering!! In fact a few were so shocked that they signed up that week to stay online

The convenience has been evident! Just roll out of bed, pour a coffee and switch on the class. I don’t know how you all prepare for classes but it works for me

(that is obviously a joke.... as my regulars know how hard I work to keep variety and interest!!).

I had a message from a regular yesterday who said “sorry to miss barre but I really fancied an abs workout”... WHAT?? Where??? WHO WITH???? .... oh! With me from my recorded library ... PHEW!!!!!

I couldn’t have done it without you. No seriously, I couldn’t - as I wouldn’t have any clients!!! So thank you all and happy birthday to us!

We are a breath away from Easter and I’m taking a week off plus it’s my real birthday and then we start to see the restrictions slowly lift.... we however, we still be online....

If you have been to my classes or workshops or our book club or Prosecco parties or anything else, then please put a little comment below!! I always love to hear from you.

Happy birthday and well done us

Week 7. 2021

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 18:03:32 GMT

Mad March and lots of dates .

Sorry I am late.... I started writing on Friday afternoon and fell asleep.... is that on ok excuse? As I type this 3 days late, I am listening to BoJo and our way back to normal life. Nothing to get excited about yet then so what a good job I can offer you the following....

MASTER CLASSES

The March Masterclass is on Thursday 4th at 7pm . The theme for this class will be upside down and back to front. Come and have a play with the exericses you know and love and look at how many different ways you can perform them. Let's get creative. Members please click on the link in your calendar. All non members please click on the link below for all info.

WORKSHOPS

I am delighted to be teaming up once again with my great friend and colleague Jo Fernandes to bring you another workshop. We bring to you a collaboration of over 40 years of Pilates, Personal Training and Dance experience

SATURDAY MARCH 13TH

Teachers - we will give you masses of new content and ideas, show you how to adapt and modify, break down and build up and add some variety and spice to your classes. Each session will include time for discussion and Q and A.

Clients we will offer you a fantastic workout and give you loads of ideas for your own practice. Enjoy a full morning of classes to challenge and progress your practise. Use the Q and A time to understand how to adapt to best suit your own practise.

I will be teaching you a hundred ways to use the Pilates pole (aka a broom handle!!) and Jo will be teaching you a class. that involves the use of a chair.. never, ever underestimate this class. Please click link for more info.

And now for something a little different..... THURSDAY MARCH 11TH AT 7PM ....

What could be lovlier than a little informal chat and virtual meet up to discuss Helen's debut novel? Well, a meet up that involves wine obviously. Join Helen and me for a friendly evening of chat about her fantastic (it is, I've read it) latest book and bring with you any wine questions to ping her way!!! (This is all on Zoom obvs).

Helen will suggest nearer the time what you might want to have in the rack or in the fridge but feel free to bring your favourite glass and that question about wine you have always wanted to ask! Members you will find the link in your live calendar. Non members you will need to ask me (or Hels) very, very, very nicely.....

Week 5. 2021

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 14:13:23 GMT

Wine, debut novels, Workshops and Masterclasses.

MASTER CLASSES

I have decided to add a montly Master Class and this will be on the first Thursday of every month at 7pm. I will plan a theme for each class. This coming one is "Rocking the Roll" - up/down and over. The Roll up and Roll Over are exercises that we freqently struggle with so this class will break them down and build them back up using a variety of options. This class is included for all subscribed members but if anyone else would like to join me, it is £10 per class on a PAYG basis. The following class will be Thursday March 4th and will be "Upside down and back to front"- looking at the exercises from a completely different angle (but more of that nearer the time.) Members just click on the class in your calendar and non members, please book on my website and you will receive log in details. Please click on Workshops and Masterclasses.

WORKSHOPS

I am delighted to be teaming up once again with my great friend and colleague Jo Fernandes to bring you two new workshops. We bring to you a collaboration of over 40 years of Pilates, Personal Training and Dance experience

And now for something a little different..... from our very own, home grown Knackered Mother....

Helen’s new book - and debut novel! - "This Changes Everything" is out on the 9th Feb and available to pre-order now here If you do pre-order you’re in with a chance to win a 24hr getaway to Lime Wood (when we can, obviously), all details on how to enter are here .

Helen says: "It’s a love story of sorts - young love, lost love, forever love - set in Rome and Cornwall, a tale about a mother called Julia and her two daughters, Annie and Jess. When Julia decides to go to Rome on a whim with Patrick, her first love and someone she’s not seen for fifty years, the daughters decide to follow her (without telling her). What unfolds in the eternal city changes all their lives forever. I hope I’ve written a story you can escape into, a mini-break for the mind if you like. And that you read it with a glass of something lovely in hand, obviously.”

We’ll be running a competition to win some wine after the launch on Feb 9th so if you want to be in with a chance of winning, make sure you pre-order the book and get reading!

Week 4. 2021

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 16:09:03 GMT

Groundhog day. Constant loop. Same old, much of the same. Round and round like a merry go round.... a few of the comments frequently being banded about with regards to how we are all feeling. A good friend of mine rang me for a catch up last weekend and we had to laugh as we really had so little to talk about.

I have introduced two new classes this week having asked for and acted on feedback with regards to home schoolers etc and those not currently doing the school run. I hope you are enjoying the increased timetable.

This week, I would like to talk more to my office workers working from home. I know that for me working from home for nearly two decades, switching off is incredibly hard and I am hearing this a lot from those who are used to being in the office mixing with colleagues and then closing the door and going home. Faced now with working at the kitchen table or squirreled away in the bedroom can lead to stress, a sense of lonliness and isolation. Without the need to walk to a colleague's desk or the coffee machine or sandwich shop and with the added discouragement of leaving the house, people are getting even more sedentary and experiencing low back pain, shoulder and neck tension, headaches, sleep issues and low mood.

I was delighted this week to start working with a large London based company who are all now scattered and working from home. I got some wonderful feedback from them with some saying they felt calmer and more focused for the afternoon, felt more energised and didn't experience that afternoon slump and two people emailed me this morning to say how well they had slept. Several also commented on how much they enjoyed seeing eachother on screen and just having a virutal wave and knowing their colleagues were "out there".

If you think you might know a company who would be interested then please let me know. I will tailor the session to the requir e ments of the class and it will be a closed class just for the employees of that company.

MASTERCLASSES AND WORKSHOPS

Don't forget that if you missed last year's classes, they are available to purchase.

All classes are recorded. I am working on dates for this year and welcome requests. I intend to run some Saturday morning one hour Master Classes and Saturday morning 3 hour workshops. If you are a fellow teacher, I will give you class content, new ideas and ways to adapt and modify, and if you are a class attendee, you can get a really great workout, learn more about The Method and really improve your own practise with a recording of the class to keep.

Workshops £40 and Master classes £15. Download to keep.

Magic Circle and Roller workshop - 3 hours to give you masses of new content.

Master classes - The Towel

Sequence and flow

Pilates and the wall

Pilates Circuits.

Classes.

Next week's classes are available to view to all members. Remember if you have subscribed and set up "recurring payment" then you need take no further aciton. You will still receive a reminder every month.

Recorded classes

I will be recording new content soon......

Have a great weekend. Don't go wild now.....

Juliet x

Week 3. 2021

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 19:05:07 GMT

Lockdown Love. I know lots of you are feeling the challenge time wise and otherwise so I’m adding TWO NEW LOCKDOWN WEEKLY LIVE CLASSES!! All for the same price!! 9 weekly live classes plus a huge library of recorded classes and a highly experienced (if I say so myself!) teacher on the end of the phone to discuss any specific needs and queries. Hop over to my website, find the subscription tab and get a month of all the above, starting when you subscribe. Tomorrow is an early HIIT followed by a stretchy, relaxy.....tretttttttch..... come and join the love I’ve got your back!!!

Members - look at next week's calendar to see what I have in store for you and what equipment you need.

I saw the photo below and it really made me laugh so I had to share! Don't forget that even when I have my back to you, I can still see you!!! (Two screens!!!!!!)

H ave a great weekend x

Week 2. 2021

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 08:01:46 GMT

Lockdown 3. We knew it was coming.... it is a pretty miserable start to the new year BUT we did know really..... at least this time we are set up and tech savvy and ready to go. One thing you can rely on are my online classes. Consistent and here to stay!

So as we wade our way through a strange January, I for one am firmly of the belief that wha tever works, works. I would typically storm through January in a haze of green juice and cardio workouts but after Monday's announcment, that is not my current situation. I do know that January is not a great time to make resolutions. Did you know that today (Jan 8th) is the day that we are most likely to give up on whatever New Year plans we had set oursevles? (thanks for that little fact Lou!). The simple fact is that January 1 is most definitely not the time to try to change your life, lockdown or no. Post Christmas blues, Post Christmas bloat, a body that is possilby still processing an overdose of sugar and alcohol and too many relatives.

Tapering is a more realistc approach. Gradually start to drop the less healthy things, gradually start to add the more healthy things... slowly but surely. February 1st is a far more realistic time to think about new start, new you plans. To that end, let's virtually hold eachother's hands through this dark, cold and possibly lonely month and look to a new start as the days lengthen and we can just start to smell Spring in the distance.

One thing that lockdown does give lots of us is time. I realise many of you are juggling home schooling with working from home with running the home BUT taking out the commuting of life, lots of us do have time and thinking about that, I would like to bring "being present" into my classes for January. I am seeing a lot of "being distracted". I would like us to try for this month to really park up everything else, turn off the phone and be present. 45 minutes. Just for you. Focus. Think about what you are doing - mind body connection. I know several of you are home schooling and of course I respect that but just try and let's turn those phones off? I would like to try and not let "being distracted" become the norm and let "being present" become a new skill. It is a very simple and basic form of mindfulness and a wonderful way to quieten t h e mind and prepare the body for whavever is requ ired.

For all members, please visit the live calendar and see next week's classes. Click on the class to access the notes attached to see what we are going to be doing. Please note an extra class next week. PILATES AND PROSECCO TUESDAY 7PM

Happy new year!!! 2021 here we come!!

Thu, 31 Dec 2020 17:11:53 GMT

And we are off.... Happy New Year and may I wish you a healthy and happy 2021.

Despite good intentions, I start a brand new year in the same way as I finished the last... typing this on New Year's eve with glass of bubbles in hand.... so much for forward planning and getting these jobs done in advance. Funnily enough, my NYE diary looks fairly empty so never mind. I have had the tv on in the background in the kitchen with "best of" episodes etc. running and there was one scene that made me laugh out loud. I never used to watch Outnumbered but there was a scene today when the mum was telling her small daughter that we shouldn't be influenced and that women should feel free to be whatever size and shape they wanted to which the daughter replied " what? a hexagon? perhaps a triangle?" which has made me chuckle all day.

I hope you have had a lovely Christmas in whatever shape that was and feel raring to go. I know the gloom of tier 4 (unless you live in Rutland?!?) is a pain but we will continue online as we have and I am delighted to welcome new faces as well as looking forward to seeing those more familiar. Once you are subscribed, remember you are welcome to join any and as many classes as you like and I know so many of you will agree that being able to attend mulitple classses a week has produced great results - one of the benefits of being online means that, along with the recorded classes you can get practise every day if you so wish!

As we are in tier 4 I am not having to whizz off to teach elsewhere so I suggest Mondays at 9.45am and Fridays at 10am for coffee and chat. If you have not done the class but fancy popping in for a chat, just click on the class at the time mentioned above and come and say hi.

You need to be subscribed in order to see the live calendar. When you click on the class it will give you information on what to expect so that you can be prepared (!!!!) with equipment if any. I will also continue to post here in News every Friday to keep you posted on any changes or updates.

PLEASE rememember to complete your online health questionnaire and disclaimer. It is so important for me to be as prepared as possible with regards to any needs and adaptations I may need to consider but also for my insurance and to protect us both. Please also remember that it is your responsibilty to let me know of any change to your physical well being so please do pick up the phone. As you know, I take your care very seriously so always get in touch with any questions no matter how trivial it may seem. A quick chat on the phone can help to clarify how to perform an exercise or adjustment that you may need to do so please never hesitate to get in touch.

You need to have a clear, well lit and well ventilated area to work in that is clear of obstacles and please make sure you mute, especially if you have background noise. If you are not sure of any of this, do please give me a ring.

I know most of you have seen on social media but for those who haven't, I am really looking forward to introducing you to Gretl. A tiny, tiny Jack Russel bitch that I adopted just after Christmas. I. have been considering it for a year or so and found this little one on 23rd December. The first 6 years of her life have not been kind but as you imagine, the rest of it looks very rosey indeed and. as her little character starts to come out, I think she will be a wonderful addition to the Pilates Lounge family!!

2021. Week 1.

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Roller.

Tuesday 8am -Just Mat

9am. Have your block handy - a large book or a cushion will do.

Thursday 8am. Just Mat

9.15 -Have a band. l

Friday . 8am. Circuits. No equipment.

9.15am. Stretch and relax. Have your block or a cushion.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

Merry Christmas

Sat, 19 Dec 2020 12:42:54 GMT

It's a wrap!! That is the end of class 2020 and what a year it has been.

Who knows what 2021 is going to throw at us and quite frankly maybe we can just not think about it for now ? I just hope you all stay safe, stay well and have as lovely a Christmas break as tiers, restrictions and confusing rules allow. I am currently self isolating and am enjoying Prosecco at 11am thanks to a very lovely friend dropping me a care package off so all rules are off in this house!! I am looking forward to the the Strictly Final, some (more) cheesy Christmas films and eating too much.

I would like to thank you all for your loyal support and for being by my side and keeping me going as much as I have you and I am so proud of all of us for what we have acheived, how far we have come and how much we have all learned. I have really enjoyed virtually welcoming new members to my classes as well as seeing long standing members regularly and I am really happy with how the membership site is working and how (mostly) seamlessly the classes have run.

We had a wonderful game of Zoom Charades on Thursday evening and it was lovely to have a coffee and chat after classes this week with those of you who could stay on.

I am now closing my laptop and off to wrap a few last bits. Do try and dip into the library from time to time to keep ticking over so that Monday Jan 4th is not quite such a shock!! I will post here in time to give you a head's up and also will update the live calendar nearer the time so that you are prepared.

Other than that, I leave it to the super warrior that is Bertie to say it as only he can!!!

See you next year xx

Last week of live classes of 2020

Fri, 11 Dec 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Well Class of 2020!!!! WHAT a year it has been and how much have we all learned?

If you had mentioned Zoom to me in February I would have thought of Fat Larry's band and as for all of us doing our classes in our lounge, kitchen, garden, garage!!! ... learning about log on issues, where the wifi works in the house.... we have all learned SO much! I have really, really enjoyed getting to meet so many new class members and to see so many of you improve beyond all measure with multiple classes and practise every week. I have really appreciated your commitment to our classes and your company, albeit over a screen but to see so many of you in my lounge every week has been wonderful.

A huge thank you to Karen Macleod for the Pelvic floor mini worshop - Karen has some 40 years' experinece as a Physiotherapist and over half that as a pelvic floor specialist so it was a real treat to have her knowledge and experience. The session was recorded and is up in the library under the "bite sized" classes tab.

There are now close to 100 recorded classes of all levels, ability and intensity so I really hope you feel you are getting great value!

SO next week, please do stay on and join me for coffee on Monday after class, join a early morning Wednesday HIIT, enjoy a (very rare - don't do evening classes these days!!) Thursday evening class and stay on for a glass of your favourite tipple and again, after the 9.15am class on Friday stay on for a coffee.

Your current block expires on Friday 18th December so please remember to subscribe to be able to acces the ever growing library of recorded classes, (currently 87 and counting) to keep you ticking over and ready to start the new live classes on Monday Januray 4th. Once you are subscribed, you will be able to access via the calendar as you do currently for the new classes and continue to have full access to all the recordeds.

The new class info will available on the calendar as soon this week's classes end. Dont forget to subscribe! I need to keep numbers up to keep the cost down!!

I really hope to see as many of you as possible during this last week and all that remains is for me to say an enormous THANKYOU for your loyalty and support and I wish you all a very, very Merry Christmas. Stay safe and see you on the other side.xxx

Class info for the last week of live classes 2020

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Christmas Circuits. Roller. Magic Circle, flexi band and stay on for a coffee afterwards.

Tuesday 8am -Merry Xmas Mat

9am . Festive flexiband (and block)

Wednesday Christmas cracker class - 7.45am The Advent calendar class. 24 moves

Thursday 8am. Jingle Bells Just mat

9.15 -All I want for Christmas is a flexible body.

Thurs 6.30pm - Christmas cracker class - Pilates and Prosecco (or Mulled wine or Champagne).... Mixed ability Merry Mat followed by a little social

Friday . 8am. The 12 Moves of Christmas..... no equipment and no partridges in Pear Trees required.

9.15am. Fa La La La lie down and relaxxxxxxxxx and stay on for a coffee at the end.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

Block 8. 7 - 11 December 20

Fri, 04 Dec 2020 08:00:02 GMT

One of the many positive things that came out of our 30 day challenge was a long list of book recommedations. I was preparing to share it with you and I then saw this post on facebook and wanted to share that too as I think it is such a brilliant idea. Bring on a night of chocolate and reading. I think we should embrace it now more than ever as our socialiasing is a bit restricted. It sounds idyllic!!

The books that were recommended were

The Thursday Murder club by Richard Osman

Amercian Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

True Grit by Bear Grylls

Midnight at Malabar House by Vaseem Khan

Grief is a thing with feathers by Max Porter

The Woman in the white Kimono by Ana Johns

Home Stretch by Graham Norton

Everything I never told you by Celeste Ng

The Lying life of adults and My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante

Sapiens Yuval Noah Harari

Grown Ups by Marianne Keys

Feel free to ping over your book ideas and I will share them!

Thank you to all those who took part in the challenge and I am delighted to announce our lucky winners are

Highball Cocktails - Anne Evans

Oh So Chocolate - Louise Coulbeck

Elizabeth's Daughter - Lisa Ashworth

Manns Cookies - Sally Kelly.

The Kitchen Social - Carol Mathieson

Knackered Mother's Wine Club - Victoria Hopper

Juliet's Pilates - Julia Busch Hansen

It was lovely to get so many messages and I am really thrilled to hear so many of you enjoyed taking part. I really hope you are able to keep up those new habits!!! Lots of you have said that you plan to and I am really happy to hear that and wish you luck. I am biased as a lifleong bookworm but I think sitting down to read every day is a must!!!

So today the new system takes over - if you have not yet set your account then please do now in order to be able to access all the membership content. I hope you will agree that once you are set up, it is so much easier to navigate and sign in to the classes. Please remember that I need to keep numbers up in order to keep the cost down!!! So do tell your friends that they need online Pilates in their life!!!

Remember - from now on, you can see all class info on the live calendar.

Next week watch out for the Pelvic Floor mini workshop with Pelvic Health specialist Karen Macleod and yours truly and coming up during this block we also have more HIIT (maybe not wearing a fleece onesie!!!!) Pilates and Prosecco and After class coffee

Class info for next week. Block 8. Week 3

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Roller and Magic Circle

Tuesday 8am - Just mat

9am . Hand weights - tins of soup will do

Thursday 8am. Fit band, miniloop or flexiband tied in a loop

9.15 -Have your block

Thurs 12.30pm - Christmas cracker class - Pelvic Floor mini workshop. Exercises from me along with a talk from Pelvic Health Physio and Specialist Karen Macleod. 12.30pm Christmas Cracker Club

Friday . 8am. The 12 Moves of Christmas..... no equipment and no partridges in Pear Trees required.

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

THE LAST DAY!!!! Day 30

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 10:27:02 GMT

DAY 30!!!!!!

Better late than never!!!! IT"S THE LAST DAY OF OUR CHALLENGE

Thank you for all your involvment and I really look forward to receiving your completed grids.... and NO I am not doing another for the 12 days of Christmas!!!

Well done to all those who took part and I really do hope you had fun if nothing else xx

November challenge. Day 29

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 08:19:14 GMT

DAY 29!!!!!! We are sooooo nearly there!!!

So back in Lockdown 1 (remember that far back?!) I set myself a little challenge to sit down every day and read a chapter of my book and I kept to it.... for a while.....To "give myself permission" to stop for 10 minutes and read a chapter or two.... and I am resurrecting that plan tomorrow (I had better - I have book club in 10 days and I haven't started the book yet but don't tell them!) and I intend to see it through December (maybe not on 25/26th !!)....

I have a pile of books next to my bed which is like my own little personal version of browsing Waterstones (which is one of my absolute pleasures) and I have a pile of magazines next to the bath and with Good Housekeeping, Countrylife and Woman and Home, I like to think I am quite grown up.

So how about you join me? Start today and give yourself permission to pick up a book and sit down for just one chapter.... or .... just DO NOTHING

I dont know about you but I am tired and today, I am taking my own advice!!!

I need to learn to do nothing. I am the world's WORST at multi screening - watching Strictly while browsing the internet while checking my emails.. while what's apping.....and THAT. Must. Stop ....so .... today - let's do the running around and walking the dog and putting lunch together and all the other things that Sunday requires and then let's just STOP for a point this afternoon and either read a chapter or two or do NOTHING! Just be present and still. That is my challenge to you but also and honestly to me!!

Let me know your book of choice - who doesn't love a good book recommendation ? I'm about to start Amercian Dirt which is my book club book (and I am led to believe is absolutely un put downable) and then I cannot WAIT to start my new Victoria Hislop and I just inhale anything she writes.

Forgive the odd bauble and fairy light but the general attitude is that there are no rules this year (well, apart from all the rules) so get those lights up and what the heck!

See you tomorrow for THE LAST DAY OF OUR CHALLENGE XX

Block 8. Week 2. 30th Nov - 4th Dec

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 08:10:31 GMT

Well it's all change. Those of you who subscribe to my classes will be receiving an email in the next 24 hours, explaining the new system and I hope you will find it ticks all the boxes. Fully automated with easy access to the live classes and a library of over 70 recorded classes avaiable to you 24/7. It has been a lot of work to get things changed over and thank you for your patience. I am really thrilled with it and I hope you love it!

From next week, you will access the live class calendar in the member's site and a quick click on the class link at the time it is running will give you access as well as show you notes on that class with regards to equipment you may need so you now have NO EXCUSE!!! You will no longer need to check here, although I will continue chatting on here so I hope some of you read my ramblings.

As a thank you to you for your support, I am running THE CHRISTMAS CRACKER CLUB!! Extra bonus classes (all will be included on the members' calendar but info is here and it is the SAME ZOOM CODE AND PASSWORD). Christmas jumpers and leggings are encouraged - it's been a mad year anyway so why not?! Plus put Christmas jumper day in your diary - Friday Dec 11th... Please see extra classes below and look out for Pilates and Prosecco, HIIT, Circuits and some relaxy stretchy ones coming soon.

PLEASE NOTE ONE SMALL CHANGE -IT HAS BEEN NECESSARY TO CHANGE MY CLASS SETTINGS SO I WILL NOW OPERATE A WAITING ROOM WHICH MEANS YOU WILL NEED TO ACCESS ON TIME SO I CAN LET YOU IN BEFORE I START TEACHING

Class info for next week. Block 8. Week 2

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Magic Circle

Tuesday 8am - Just mat - LOWER BODY WORKOUT

9am . Flexiband

12.30 Christmas Cracker Class -Thursday 12.30pm upper body workout 30 mins Christmas Cracker Class 30 mins

Wed 7.45am - Christmas cracker class - WED 7.45am - HIIT - Christmas Cracker Class 30 MINS

Thursday 8am. Fitband - you can use a miniloop or tie your flexiband into a loop

9.15 - Soft ball

Friday . 8am. HIIT. No equipment

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

November challenge. Day 28

Sat, 28 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Day 28. We are nearly there. Today is a little reflection on all the different things we have got up to (and sorry for repeating myself!) and also a huge thank you to you for your part in this!!

T oday is pick your own challenge day!!! There are plenty to choose from now.

Please see little videos of all the lovely prizes that await and another very genuine thank you to The Kitchen Social, Elizabeth's Daughter, Highball Cocktails, The Knackered Mother, Manns Cookies and Oh So chocolate

November challenge. Day 27

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 12:28:04 GMT

Day 27 and apologies for being late AGAIN!!!!!

Slight technical hitch but all sorted now!!! I need to raise my game for these last few days!!!!

ONLY 3 DAYS LEFT - I hope you are ticking off that grid and please see a beautiful video below from The Kitchen Social of one of the prizes that awaits one lucky winner!!

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow. I am now off to take my own advice and walk in the fresh air and just ...... be....

See you soon xx

November challenge. Day 26

Thu, 26 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Day 26 and it's a chilly one! You may as well ignore my shouting as the waves drown me out but what I am trying to tell you is about the benefits of cold water. This from a total wimp who HATES cold water BUT....

We know that athletes regularly take ice baths after exercise but do you know why? The benefit of a freeeeeezing bath is believed to reduce the flow of blood to the extremities to keep blood focused around the vital organs which can help flush waste products, reduce swelling and tissue breakdown.... therefor promoting more effective healing.

As I was being very wimpy today, wrapped up for the Artic, there were several people swimming just down the beach from me (Milford) wearing no more than swimsuits and caps.... and Clare who was behind the filming had herself just got out of the sea - we are hearing more and more about the benefits of open water swimming no matter the season and the belief is that "cold water helps to boost the white blood cell count because the body is forced to react to changing conditions. Over time, your body becomes better at activating its defences. Cold water swimming activates endorphins. This chemical is what the brain produces to make us feel good during activities". So now you know! What I am reliably informed is that with regular practise, it does get more tolerable but if you want a slightly less traumatic experience, you could fill your bath up with cold water, immerse yourself up to your neck long enough to sing Happy Birthday or failing that, finish your morning shower with a cold blast for long enough to sing "We wish you a Merry Christmas" but dont forget the Glad Tidings or you won't have very long!!!! I have heard so many people sing the benefits of a freezing blast in the shower to feel rejuvenated, awake and energised so why not give it a try!!!

N.b. If you do venture out to the beach in Winter, do be careful! It is cold out there!!!

I am now posting every day, a little video of our amazing prizes so please keep ticking off that grid and you might win1 Today is Oh SO Chocolate.

ONLY 4 DAYS LEFT

November challenge. Day 25

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 15:40:20 GMT

Day 25 and today is "train with a friend" awareness day!!!

If you can get someone to meet you in the rain in the forest before 8am to help you record for your challenge then you can really consider them a friend! You don't need to go that far but if you arrange to meet a friend for exercise either in person or online then you are FAR more likely to commit and see it through. I have several friends and relatives who join the same class with me online from various parts of the country so that they can work together - it is a lovely way to see each other as well as to motivate each other.

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow - I hope you are ticking off your grid... ONLY FIVE DAYS LEFT!!!!!!!

Huge thanks to Lou who has been invaluable with help for my social media and this challenge so do check out her website -I could not have done this without her! She also supports and writes about some amazing sailing stories and the story about Scaramouche is definitley one to read -(just a tiny part of what she does). You can see a little more about Lou and the Scaramouche Sailing Trust "using sailing to transform the lives of students from inner city London" by clicking below. Both are well worth a read when you take a coffee break.

Have a great day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 24

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

D ay 24.

Good morning. Well, we have had a few days of stretch and dressing up and talking so today is back to some exercise. Push ups. A variety for you to choose from depending on your level and what might be most appropriate.

1 . Standing close to the wall with wide arms. Lower your chest between your hands, keeping the same distance between your collarbones and hips.

2. Standing further away from the wall so you have a bigger distance to travel and more weight to support - arms more narrow will increase intensity and keeping your elbows close to your ribs will add another challenge. Watch you keep your chest open and do not allow your shoulders to roll forwards.

3. In all 4's with your hips infront of your knees. Lower. your chest down, reaching your nose forwards toward the end of the mat. Again, bringing your arms closer towards you and / or keeping your elbows close to your ribs will give more challenge. Watch you keep your hips drawn slightly up towards your ribs to avoid arching your back. Keep those abs engaged. Watch you maintain space between your collar bones.

4. From a plank position, bend elbows lowering your chest down towards the floor. Again, watch you maintain space between your collarbones and to avoid your shoulder blades "winging", imagine someone resting the palm of their hand between your shoulder blades and gently push your back up towards that hand.

5. Same as before but again, have your hands closer to your body and draw your elbows up past your ribs. Keep the rib hip connection, feel your abs supporting you and try to avoid the shake that I got!!!!

Aim for 3 to start with and see if, over the course of a week you can build up to 6 or 8.

See you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 23

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 09:52:59 GMT

DAY 23

Day 23.

Good morning and welcome to a new week and our last full week of this 30 day challenge.

Keep drinking that water to flush out the system, plump up fine lines, hydrate the body....keep doing those exercise snacks to raise your heart rate and develop your cardio vascular (heart and lung) system and have a few days alcohol free and see how fabulous you feel at the end of the week!

See you tomorrow and have a quick look at Highball Cocktails to see what alcohol free options you can have especially as we head towards the festive season -(link below.

Remember to keep ticking off your grid to be in with a chance of winning TWO cases of non alcoholic cocktails!

See you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 22

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 08:46:03 GMT

DAY 22

Good morning and welcome to a relaxy Sunday. Today involves pyjamas and just got out of bed hair and hadn't got around to opening the curtains but the intentions are good and it's real! Who wants to see perfect and groomed at 8am on Sunday?! That's my line and I'm keeping it!!!

M obility and stretch to wrap up the week and today is cuppa and cookie day! So enjoy your exercise of choice and factor in some stretch and mobility and I hope you get to put your feet up at some point.

Click the link below and see what you can hope to win when you complete your 30 days and enter your grid - or just order some anyway and have them delivered to someone you love as a thank you or as a random act of kindness!!

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 21

Sat, 21 Nov 2020 07:58:24 GMT

DAY 21

Day 21. It's the weekend!!! Today is a quick, get moving one. Do this one with everyone in your home - learn how quick and easy it is to do and then you can jump up every HOUR when you are sitting at your desk or doing your chores next week and get a quick 2 min heart pumping, all over wake up and move.

W ith family in mind, pop over to Elizabeth's Daughter (link below) to see their beautiful range of skin care products designed exclusively for sensitive teenage skin. One lucky winner will be receiving a whole hamper of these beautiful goodies at the end of the challenge.
Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow!

November challenge. Day 20

Fri, 20 Nov 2020 08:02:21 GMT

DAY 20

Another week down a n d we are two thirds of the way through!! How many of you have managed to do a challenge every day???? It is widely bel ie ved that 21 consecutive days is all it takes to establish a new habit so you only have tomorow for it to feel like the norm!!

Today is Dress for Dinner Friday! I hope you have fun and get creative and I look forward to some photos.

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow!

Block 8. Week 1. 23 Nov to 18 Dec.

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 22:59:31 GMT

For info on next week's classes, please scroll down to the bottom.

Block 8!!! BLOCK 8!!! It really is amazing isn't it, how far we have come.

I had to share this photo with you. I pride myself on being "real" but scrolling through instagram, it would appear that my idea of real and other people's are somewhat different!! I won't be asking you to hang a hoop from your ceiling anytime soon but never say never!!

I am just putting the final touches to the changes to my website with the ever patient Steve who looks after it for me and then I really look forward to sharing some new improvements with you. What a long way I have come since my fumblings in March!! I hope to share that with you very soon.

In the meantime, welcome back for the last block of the year and watch out for some extra classes as Christmas bonus to you - not next week as I am coming to the end of the November challenge but certainly the week after!

PLEASE MAKE PAYMENT BY NO LATER THAN 4PM ON FRIDAY 20TH IN ORDER TO GET THE CODE FOR MONDAY 23

Class info for next week. Block 8. Week 1. Nov 23-27

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Roller

Tuesday 8am - Just mat - legs, bums, tums

9am . Soft ball

Thursday 8am. Just mat. Sequences

9.15 - Flexi band

Friday . 8am. Circuits. No equipment

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

November challenge. Day 19

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 08:00:03 GMT

Did you get your walk yesterday????? Will you manage to get away from your desk/sofa and get out again today? I reeeeeeeeeeally hope so.

TWO VIDEOS TODAY!!

I was a little disorganised today so here is a pyjama workout with my apologies, although sort of not apologising as this is real life??!!! I will get my act together again!!!!

...

Thank you to the Kitchen Social for their Overnight oats video - please see the video below.

Don't forget my last 4 week block of classes start on Monday - 28 live classes PLUS an ever growing library of recorded classes PLUS some Christmas extras...

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow!

November challenge. Day 18

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Day 18

Good morning and welcome to Day 18. Today is simple - get up and go for a short walk. That is ALL but... can you do it? Can you find 10 minutes? You KNOW you will feel better for doing it - not a proper walk but a get away from your desk /chores quick walk.

When you sit down later, have a look at Oh So's recipes - warming porridge with all the trimmings. You cannot deny how amazing this looks AND the chocolate is low calorie AND is a pro biotic AND I can guarantee it is delicious - the rasberry chocolate is my favouite. How about you make some and send in your recipe ideas?

Anyway, you need to get up and go for that walk first!!!

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow!

November challenge. Day 17

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 07:35:50 GMT

Day 17

Good morning and welome to day 17. Are you managing to drink more water? Do some simple daily mobiltiy? Tick off your grid to prove to YOU that you can add one good habit a day?

Today is a standing leg series using some basic ballet moves. "Reduce the range of movement if nec. and rest one hand on the back of a chair. This one definitley deserves some photos!! Excuse my clicky knees!!!!

"Exercise Snacks!!

Standing with feet wide and heels turned in

Double heel lifts
Double knee bends (small Plie's)
Plie with one heel raised
Holding Plie, alternate heel raise
Holding plie, lift one heel, lift the second, lower the first, lower the second and so on.

6. Double heel raise into straight leg, return heels, lift heels, plie, return heels

Repeat every time you boil the kettle for a glass of room temp. water!!

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow!

November challenge. Day 16

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Day 16

We are into part 2! I hope you had a lovely relaxy weekend. I had a very lazy Sunday and absolutely blitzed The Queens's Gambit and the new series of The Crown. Anyone else addicted?? It was u tter bliss lying on the sofa !!!

However, a new week beckons and it is back to work. Here is a cheekly little arms exercise snack that you can repeat over and over and over and over..... and you have plenty of other videos to choose from if you want to trade up.

Don't forget it is Mocktail Monday so try the drinking water challenge I set last week and hop over to Highball Mocktails for some alcohol free ideas and to see their Christmas offers.

It is great to see your posts and pics of the grids being filled in and keeeeeeeeeep them coming!!!! (didn't expect to see Maisie in the dance off, did you??)

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 15

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 08:00:03 GMT

Day 15

HALF WAY THROUGH! !

How are you getting on? Are you in the swing of things now and making sure you set that time aside every day just for you? Is it starting to become more of a habit? I really hope so. It is hard isn't it, setting a little time aside just for us. However today is relaxy Sunday so here is a gentle one for you to enjoy and I hope you find an hour this afternoon to put your feet up with a cuppa. I am currently glued to Queen's Gambit on Netflix and will definitely be taking some time out to sofa surf.

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 14

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 20:49:42 GMT

Day 1 4

D ay 14 and today is a chance to try and get out with family and get some fresh air and some fun! I had a lot of fun making this with Lou and as you can see, out in the forest on our "walk and talk" meeting, we managed to fit in some side to side gallops, power bridges, step up's, bunny hops and high planks! I am doing a plank on a dragon, as you do!!! Why is there a dragon in the woods? well, seeing as you ask, please read on .....(Lou told me about this !!)

" According to the tale, a massive dragon terrorized the hamlet of Bisterne until one valiant knight, Sir Maurice de Berkeley, offered to help. In the hopes of slaying the dragon, the knight hid with his hounds, waiting to attack the creature when it crept out to steal its daily dose of milk. Upon being ambushed, the dragon fled—the knight and his hounds following in hot pursuit. They finally defeated the Bisterne Dragon outside the village of Lyndhurst, where the beast toppled to its death, forming the knoll now known as Bolton’s Bench.

Though Sir Maurice and his hounds had won, the defeat came at a cost. Consumed by the toilsome deed, the knight wandered aimlessly for a month before returning to Lyndhurst, where he died upon the very hill that arose from his fantastical foe. His bow, which was made of yew-wood, fell onto the grass beside him and took root, eventually growing into a mighty tree.

Whether or not you believe the legend, a yew tree still stands atop Bolton’s Bench, overlooking the village of Lyndhurst. What remains a mystery to this day is who, or what, lies beneath the storied soil."

So now you know!!

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

Block 7. Week 4. 16 - 20 Nov

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 16:36:10 GMT

For info on next week's classes, please scroll down to the bottom.

I have been delghted to welcome some new faces to our online Pilates family and really enjoy seeing you all every day. We really have become a little community although there is still room to improve on the whole interacitive "you speaking to me" thing!!

I dont know how to break it to you but this is the last week of the block and next week is the LAST BLOCK OF THE YEAR! Yes! You did read that correctly......all the more reason to sign up and get your fix! I will be updating the recorded classes and will be planning lots to keep us entertained and challenged with a few Christmas treats along the way.

The next block dates are Monday 23 Nov to Friday 18 Dec.

Please make paymen t for the LAST BLOCK OF THE YEAR (did I mention that??!) by no later than Friday 20th please.

I have been rather busy with doing all the work wiht The 30 Day November Wellness Challenge and I really hope lots of you are taking part and enjoying it! Today involves dancing so I hope you will take part in your own kitchen disco!

My online workshops and Masterclasses are now on my website and I will be updating and adding to. Please get in touch to find out more.

Class info for next week. Block 7. Week 4. Nov 16 - 20

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Get a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Have your flexiband and make it into a loop with a freezer clip OR have your fit band

Tuesday 8am - Flexiband

9am. - Two tins of soup and a hand towel

Thursday 8am. The Pilates pole (a broom handle without the head on it!!!)

9.15 - The Pilates pole - see above

Friday . 8am.Sequences. No equipment

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

November challenge. Day 13

Fri, 13 Nov 2020 07:30:04 GMT

Day 1 3

The biggest reason I started the 30 Day November Wellness Challenge was to help us feel connected and stay motivated and positive. As we went into Lockdown Season 2 (which I didn't know about when I launched the challenge) following a really strange and diffcult year, going into shorter days with less daylight, I wanted to help us all feel that we are not alone both in the literal sense as well as in how we are feeling right now. I live alone and physical contact has been almost non existent for me and I know how much I get from seeing friends online and chatting and just knowing that people are "out there" for me.

When better to really appreciate that than today, Children in Need day? I. have felt quite emotional watching Joe Wicks this morning as he comes towards the end of his 24 hour challenge and what he has said over and over ( I have been red buttoning quite a bit!!) is how much it has helped him having people ring in, send videos etc to encourage him, send him virtual energy and believe in him.

So as we all face our own challenges, this little daily challenge from me is to remind us that we are not on our own, there is always someone out there who wants to encourage us and support us but also how we need to take time every day for us.

SO if I am not motivating you at the moment, get on the BBC red button and let Joe do it! Remember just what can be acheived if we stick together and show we care! A lovely quote I have heard this year is "We may be in different boats but we are all sailing the same sea". In true CIN honour, I hope to see some jazzy leggings in my classes please and I hope everyone will dig into the depths of their pockets and donate today for some amazing causes for so many who need so much.

Talking about support, please forgive me.... it is Day 13 NOT day 12 as I announce in the video.... I realised my mistake at the end and I just couldn't face re-doing it!

In other VERY exciting news, our wonderful prize giver Helen McGinn aka The Knackered Mother has her first novel coming out in February (available to pre-order now!) so please click below to read more!! Seriously exciting and huge congratulations Helen!! While on her site, you can also let her direct you to what to pop in your fridge and in the rack this weekend.

Today's challenge is to dance - in your kitchen - with the muic on full. You cannot dance and feel miserable. It is a wonderuful way to get rid of stress, feel happy and burn some calories!! Dancing is THE BEST way to feel happy and get fit. Hopefully your dancing is a lot better than mine but then who cares!!!! That is the point.

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 12

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 09:00:01 GMT

Day 12

Sorry I was late today. Technical issues!!! Must try harder.

So an abs workout today. You can play around with how many you do and repeat sets but let your head sit heavy and have no tension in your neck. Keep up the good work AND It is Children In Need Day tomorrow so I hope to see some jazzy leggins if not fancy dress!!! Let's cheer things up a bit.

Have a lovely day and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 11

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 08:03:09 GMT

Day 11

Sit up!!! Take note.....

So we are back to hump day and I am asking you to sit up tall and think about your posture. However it is not all nag, nag, nag and to get you into the downhill slide towards the weekend, why not revisit that amazing recipe from The Kitchen Social with dates and peanut/almond butter with (thanks Lou!) melted healthy chocolate over the top from Oh So!!

If you have been doing your daily challenge then you definitely deserve it!!!

See you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 10

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

Day 10

Thoughful Tuesday!

Today is all about drinking water!! This week is International Alcohol l Awareness Week so what better time to think about it!

I hope that maybe while you watch me chatting away, you will do some squats or some neck rolls... how are you getting on? I love hearing from you so keep those messages coming and if you are on instagram remember to share stories! The more you share, the more we interact.

As we are locked down again, I am adding some Master Classes on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings. Please email me for more information.

Keep going with the challenge - I really hope you are by now well into the habit of taking some time every day Just. For. You.

See you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 9

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 08:03:31 GMT

Day 9

This is Motivational Monday.

I had a really lovely walk wth my friend Debs and her Lab Samson yesterday. Socially distanced and observing the rule of meeting just one person and totally above board. For me as someone living alone, the face to face connection is vital and I know that there are so many who are in the same predicament. Eveyrone sees me as jolly and postive on the screen but I, like so many others, have to confront the reality of living alone during a tiime of isolation and I have learned a lot this year about friendsh ips and who reall counts!!

So the motivational aspsect today has several layers. We walked in the rain and the mud, putting the world to right, throwing in some side leg raises and standing push up's and felt so much better for it. We had quite a laugh setting up the camera on coats rolled up on the floor in the mud, avoiding trying to work around 2 very interested wet Labradors and faffing about in the rain.

Exercise does not need to be taken in a shiny studio or a state of the art gym. Exercise is about moving and getting the heart to work harder, getting the oxygen to travel more efficiently around the body...which in turn helps us to feel more postive and calmer in our mind. Who has EVER done exercise and not felt better for it?!

Something as simple as meeting a friend and getting outside for a walk is more important than ever at this time and I hope I can motivate you to a) think of friends and familiy members who may be living alone and propose a "one friend only" walk outside whatever the weather to connect, to support and get some face to face contact and b) reach out to a friend who may be living in a very busy house and is frazzled and could really beneift from the the fresh air, exercise and company.

Get a daily walk yourself no matter what the weather. Even if you are really busy, you can find 10 mins, put on your coat, get outside and walk. When did you ever do a class, go for a walk or a run, go out on your bike and not feel better?! The incentive might be lacking as the weather is drizzly and miserable but in this challenge, add a daily walk to your list and just see how much better you feel.

The Kitchen Social have done a wonderful little video on making Kale crisps which I have added to Instagram and Facebook. If you are not on social media and would like to see it, please email me.

Have a great day, look after your friends who may be living alone during this time, look after your friends who may desperately need a chance to get out and have space, stay safe, stay well and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 8

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 07:51:53 GMT

DAY 8

A week in already and here we are with stretchy Sunday once more. I have really enjoyed seeing your posts and videos and comments and thanks to your support we have had a little mention in The Lymington Times (also thanks to Lou who wrote it for me and continues to support me tirelessly.)

So enjoy your stretch and mobility session and what better way to wrap it up than with a cuppa and a cookie and the Sunday papers? Manns Cookies bake amazing cookies that are beautifully wrapped, packed and posted to your door so pop on over to have a look at what you could win in our draw at the end of the challenge (link at bottom of page).

Just a few minutes every day for you. To move, to breathe, to relax and today especially, to reflect and feel gratitude .

See you tomorow x

November challenge. Day 7

Sat, 07 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

DAY 7

A w hole week in!! I would love to hear how you are all getting on. Are you managing to do a challenge every day??

So today's challenge is a family one. See if you can get your kids/partner involved. Noone at home? How about facetiming them and doing it together online? I am using basic household items to keep it as simple and fun as possible so whack on some music and get moving!!

You need a hand towel, two tins of soup and a pillow or cushion folded in half.

Talking about family, have a look at Elizabeth's Daughter. A beautiful range of skin care for sensitive young skin and one lucky winner will receive a hamper in time for Christmas!

Keep going and remember to post photos, videos and comments - even just a photo of the grid being ticked off!!

See you tomorow x

Block 7. Week 3. Nov 9-13

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 08:15:02 GMT

For info on next week's classes, please scroll down to the bottom.

The mind is a wonderful peice of hard drive when you think about it. A facilty that we shoud be in full control of and yet is so quick to control us if not carefully managed. How many times have you found that you have gone to bed with a niggle or a conundrum going around your head and once asleep and without all the other distractions, y our internal system gets to work and you wake up with the awnser or at least, a clearer mind? I was lying on the sofa last night thinking that I really should shave my legs, only I couldn't be bothered.. but I should .... but does it matter .... I thought no more of it and went on to have THE MOST vivid dream that I was getting ready for bed and when I undressed and looked down, I had legs like Mr Tumnus. Not sure why my mind felt that was necessary!!

A s we go into another lockdown, we need to use all the tools in the box to keep positive and moving forwards and not let that mind take us away from thinking anything other than good and positive thoughts. I really hope that lots of you are enjoying the challenges and getting a smile from it . Thank you to so many of you who have been sharing, commenting, tagging etc. and just being so supportive.

Please try and do as many classes as you can to keep fit and strong and moving and let's all meet up before class as much as we can - I have taken my eye off the ball a bit this week (hadn't actually appreciated how much work the challenge would be !) but I promise to to get my act together and be seated and ready to greet you 15 mins before the class starts for a chat and a catch up. Let's support eachother as much as we can.

Have a lovely weekend x

Class info for next week. Block 7. Week 3. Nov 9-13

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

G et a tennis ball and give your feet a massage before you start the class.

Monday 9am Have your flexiband, magic circle a nd roller . A bit of playtime!

Tuesday 8am - Just mat

9am. - Mat only but always have a block or cushion handy.

Thursday 8am. Have your hand towel. A tough one with the unassuming towel.

9.15 Back to basics. EVERYONE needs to do this. A refresher on the principles, fundamentals and technique. Just mat but as always have your towel and block handy. Start with some foot massage - have a tennis ball to roll your feet over.

Friday . 8am. Circuits. No equipment

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

November challenge. Day 6

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 07:40:01 GMT

DAY 6

It's Friday!!!

A little side lying workout for you today. It's a bit of a burner so break it down into bite sized chunks if you need to and don't forget to do both sides!!!!

Our wonderful Knackered Mother who is one of our prize givers has been away all week judging wines so I am sharing a post from last week which really rather caught my eye as it is bubbles, pink AND served in my favourite loca!! You can hop over to her website for great advice on latest deals and best buys for what you should be putting in the fridge and in the rack.

See you tomorrow

November challenge. Day 5

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 21:15:45 GMT

DAY 5

Guy Fawkes night!

They say never work with children, animals or damp sparklers!!! Today's challenge, in true fireworks style, is to choose your exercise and see how many you can do before your sparkler goes out!! I hope your sparklers work better than ours and please observe h&s!!

A big thank you to the fabulous back up team of Lou, Lisa, Aaron and Nick and our lovely little torch holder. I hope this one makes you smile.

Have as good a lockdown bonfire night as you can and see you tomorrow x

November challenge. Day 4

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

DAY 4

International Stress Awareness day

I imagine that even the most relaxed amongst us are feeling the stress as we head towards Lockdown Season 2. I hope today's video will be soothing and help to relax even the most stressed mind.

Also Wednesdays are recognised as "Hump Days" - the tough middle of the week day to get over so a big thank you to The Kitchen Social who have very kindly provided us with this little recipe. I hope you can factor in some relaxation and breathing and then treat yourself - you deserve it!

Almond Butter Stuffed Dates

Ingredients

Pitted Dates (Deglet Noir good)

Good quality almond or peanut butter

Spoon a teaspoon of nut butter into each date.

You can freeze them and eat them like toffees or eat fresh for a chewy, sugar free snack.

Delicious and indulgent.

Enjoy!

November challenge. Day 3

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 07:56:38 GMT

DAY 3

Tuesday.....

A couple of tins of soup or if you prefer, just hold a tennis ball in each hand!! A quick arm workout! Labrador optional!

November challenge. Day 2

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 08:00:03 GMT

DAY 2

Motivating Monday. Let's get MOVING!!!

A little more energetic today - kick start the week after a rather miserable weekend! If you feel the video is too much, then pop back and repeat yesterday's.

I promise you I have not been in cahoots with BoJo but how timely that my challenge hits just as we go into lockdown Season 2. I have been overwhelmed by your support and the uptake and I really look forward to seeing yours and my progress and let's remember that we are all in this together!!

In the meantime, it’s #mocktailmonday and here is a little note from highballcocktails.com -

"We are all getting used to the idea of Meat Free Monday. Now how about thinking about reducing your alcohol intake?. It’s one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental wellbeing. Join us in going alcohol-free this Mocktail Monday. Choose from our range of classic cocktails, made from natural ingredients, suitable for vegans and all less than half the calories of a standard cocktail . Use the code MOCKTAILMONDAY on www.highballcocktails.com for 15% off your first order."

Please visit www.highballcocktails.com

November challenge. Day 1

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 08:00:02 GMT

WELCOME!!!

Day 1. Today is World Vegan Day. I am not going to ask you to give up meat but I am going to talk rainbow meals. A rough guide is to say that the more colour on your plate, the more nutrition it contains. Can you add some berries to your breakfast, go wild and experiment with different veg. and maybe try some fresh fruit or veg. you don't usually eat? For 30 days, can you get a rainbow on your plate for one meal every day? If possible, skip the supermarket and find your local veg. shop or market?

A really quick and easy way to get a head start on nutrition is by making a blend and this is also a really good way to "hide" vegetables for kids who may be more reluctant, as with some pineapple or apple, dates and berries, you can easily disguise the taste. Fortunately we have the experts on hand and The Kitchen Social has given us a recipe to get us going.

Morning Cleanse

45g broccoli ( freeze first to dull some of bitterness)

2 tbsps avocado

1 apple peeled & cored

1 banana

Fresh lemon juice

Water

Use equal portion of fruit or liquid

Use a maximum of 3 types of fruit to retain individual flavour

Use frozen fruit if you forget to buy fresh (keep in freezer)

Prep and drink smoothie straight away - they lose their nutritional goodness if allowed to sit.

Introducing our wonderful Supporters. Box PR

Sat, 31 Oct 2020 15:39:54 GMT

I would like to introduce my final and most amazing supporter Lou Johnson from Box Pr. Lou runs her business in Pr and marketing in the marine industry and she really did not expect to be promoting a Pilates business. However as is her typical sunny and positive way, Lou has supported me tirelessly over the years, helping me with social media, group mailings and so on and has run a couple of really successful Digital Marketing workshops on my Pilates Teacher’s network. A keen runner, sailor, SUP’er and general fitness fanatic, Lou has worked so hard with me over the last few weeks and there have been emails at 10pm, what’s apps at 7am and ideas and copy flying back and forth endlessly. Our lovely grid is Lou’s work and I want to give her a huge shout out and thank her from the bottom of my heart. So if you want information on wetsuits, dry suits, boat shows, boats, SUP’s and a huge range of other marine related things, check her out!

Please follow @boxpr as she also regularly posts her “what I am grateful for” posts which are an inspiration in themselves AND if you would like to read something uplifting and totally non Pilates, check out https://scaramouchesailing.org.uk/

Introducing our wonderful Supporters. Elizabeth's Daughter

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 19:51:24 GMT

We couldn’t have a wellness challenge without a skincare company… so we are delighted to announce that Elizabeth's Daughter is joining us on #JulietsPilates 30 Day Wellness challenge this November. Find out more about this wonderful brand that has a focus on young and sensitive skin.

Elizabeth’s Daughter, Skincare that loves you…. right from the beginning.

After 20 years in the beauty industry, Elizabeth was inspired to create a range of natural and very effective products that would suit not only her slightly problematic skin but would be a good introduction to a gentle skincare regime for her daughter. “I wanted to create a simple, effective and hard-working range for girls and women of all ages.” The result is Elizabeth’s Daughter - Investing in beautiful skin today means more beautiful skin in the future.

Elizabeth’s Daughter is donating some wonderful products from their range. Make sure you join and complete #Julietspilates challenge to be in with a chance of winning them.

Introducing our wonderful Supporters. The Knackered Mother

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:09:41 GMT

Here we have the delightful Knackered Mother's Wine Club joining in our #JulietsPilates 30 day wellness challenge.

Helen McGinn, author of The Knackered Mother’s Wine Club, an award-winning wine blog and best-selling wine book. Helen is an ex-supermarket wine buyer and spent almost a decade sourcing wines around the world. She's an international wine judge and writes about drinks for the Daily Mail and various other magazines. Regular TV appearances include BBC1’s Saturday Kitchen and ITV’s This Morning.

One lucky person who completes the 30 day challenge will be taking home a copy of Helen's latest book PLUS two bottles of wine from her wine rack.

All we need from you :

- Download the grid

- Pop it on the fridge

- Tick the days off to complete the challenge.

- Send completed grid in to Juliet to go in the draw, it's really that simple.

Introducing our wonderful Supporters. The Kitchen Social

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 16:07:46 GMT

I am delighted to introduce you to the wonderful companies who are supporting us all on the #JulietsPilates 30 Day Wellness Challenge.

First up we have the lovely Annabelle and Heidi from The Kitchen Social. Annabelle launched the Kitchen Social following her graduation in Level 1 Culinary Nutrition from Leith’s Cookery School in London early in 2019. She developed her interest in nutrition following her daughter’s diagnosis with a chronic auto-immune condition in 2017 and a complete change of diet has transformed her family’s health. She is now evangelical about the principles of healthy eating which form the basis of all of our cooking. Building on a passion for cooking for her family over sixteen years, her time at Leith’s has helped to refine and develop the Kitchen Social menus to be more nutritionally balanced yet still delicious, using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Keep an eye out for their delicious recipes over the next 30 days, plus they have an announcement coming early next week about what one lucky person will be winning.

Block 7. Week 2. Nov 2 - 6

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 08:00:02 GMT

For info on next week's classes, please scroll down to the bottom.

It didn't get off to a great start ! Bearing mind that my November challenge is based largely on support, motivation, care for eachother... I set out into the breach last weekend, fighting my way through torrential rain and howling wind for Bertie's walk. I thought that if I took the chuckit and a couple of tennis balls, I could tire him out quickly and get back to my cosy sofa. I had 90,000 acres of New Forest to choose for my walk. NINETY.... THOUSAND...ACRES.

After a few throws and much galloping in the mud (him not me), I went for my grand finale. I raised my right arm, extending it way behind me and with all my might, executed a pretty impressive serve, launching the tennins ball in a high arc of some considerable speed and power.... right into the side of the helmet of a cyclist who had just ridden across our path some distance ahead. Unfortunately when I get nervous, I often get the giggles so as the cyclist dismounted to look back at his assailant, he saw me waving the offending weapon while laughing my head off. As he rode off he gave a little wave and said something like "have a lovely day, toodleoo". To be fair, the rain was so heavy that visiblity was limited so I cannot confirm beyond all reasonable doubt that it was a wave and as I was wearing headphones under a furry hood zipped up to my chin, listening to Graham Norton interviewing Julie Andrews I can also not promise that he wished me a good day but I like to think that was the exchange that took place. I guess it can only get better.... which leads me into.....

The 30 day November Wellness Challenge

Please see earlier posts this week giving you all the informatoin you could possibly wish for! I will post the first video 8am Sunday and really hope lots of you will get involved. All Challenge updates will now be in their own posts.

Class info for next week. Block 7. Week 2. Nov 2 - 6

Red - int/adv Orange - mixed ability Green - all levels

Please get in touch if you would like to discuss the class levels and what will suit you best.

Monday 9am-Back by popular demand - The foam roller

Tuesday 8am - Small handweights - two tins of soup or just hold a couple of tennis balls.

9am. - Mat only -

Thursday 8am. Have your hand towel. A tough one with the unassuming towel.

9.15 Back to basics. EVERYONE needs to do this. A refresher on the principles, fundamentals and technique. Just mat but as always have your towel and block handy. Start with some foot massage - have a tennis ball to roll your feet over.

Friday . 8am. Circuits. No equipment

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive. Start with foot massage as before.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute .

A little welcome from me for the 30 day November wellness challenge

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 19:13:30 GMT

An introduction to me and a little more information about the 30 day Wellness challenge

The November Challenge

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 18:55:02 GMT

It didn't get off to a great start ! Bearing mind that my Nomember challenge is based largely on support, motivation, care for eachother... I set out into the breach at the weekend, fighting my through rain coming down in sheets and howling wind for Bertie's walk. I thought that if I took the chuckit and a couple of tennis balls, I could tire him out quickly and get back to my cosy sofa. I had 90,000 acres of New Forest to choose for my walk. NINETY.... THOUSAND...ACRES.. After a few throws and much galloping in the mud (him not me), I went for my grand finale. I raised my right arm, extending it way behind me and with all my might, executed a pretty impressive serve, launching the tennins ball in a high arc of some considerable speed and power.... right into the side of the helmet of a cyclist who had just ridden across our path some distance ahead. Unfortunately when I get nervous, I often get the giggles so as the cyclist dismounted to look back at his assailant, he saw me waving the offending weapon while laughing my head off. As he rode off he gave a little wave and said something like "have a lovely day, toodleoo". To be fair, the rain was so heavy that visiblity was limited so I cannot confirm beyond all reasonable doubt that it was a wave and as I was wearing headphones under a furry hood zipped up to my chin, listening to Graham Norton interviewing Julie Andrews I can also not promise that he wished me a good day but I like to think that was the exchange that took place.

The November Challenge

Watch out for my first post on Sunday! Instagram, FB and right here every day of November.

We have some truly amzing prizes and all you have to is commit to taking some time every day just for you. Remember, you can trade up so if you don't fancy doing that day's challenge you can swap to a previously posted one and by learning to prioritise some time just for you, you also get the chance to win from the list below. Don't forget to share, copy, hashtag, send photos, videos and tick off your chart to be in for a chance to win from the following....

Class info for next week. Block 7. Week 2. Nov 2 - 6

Monday -Im on holiday (working on the challenge) - no live classes but plenty in the library

Tuesday - still on holiday (still working on the challenge)

Thursday 8am. Just mat. Focus on lower body - legs, bums, tums but obviously that is not very Pilates so I will call it lower body workout.

9.15 Back to basics. EVERYONE needs to do this. A refresher on the principles, fundamentals and technique. Just mat but as always have your towel and block handy.

Friday . 8am. Circuits. Hand weights (two tins of soup), soft ball and towel.

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute.

Don't forget to turn your clock back for an extra hour in bed, have a great weekend and see you next week xx

Block 6. Week 4.

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 16:07:32 GMT

I was teaching a small outdoor group last week and I couldn't help but notice the display on one particiapnt's watch. I am used to seeing heart rate monitors and fit bits flashing away on people's wrists but I was quietly becoming a little alarmed. His watch display was steadily going up and at no point did it drop back down again. When I thought we were drawing close to possible heart failiure, I had no choice to mention it to him. "Oh no" he said, "That's not a heart rate monitor, it's a calorie counter!".

I only recently bought a watch. Back in the old days (BC) when I did lots of 121,s I could generally rely on my clients to have a clock in the room or I would discreetly check my phone. Not this one time. I was in a short sleeved top so it was obvious that I was not wearing a watch and I had forgotten to bring my phone in. Fortunately my client was wearing a watch and every now and again, I could squint carefully and notice the time and manage the session accordingly. When I told him the session was finished, he looked at his watch, looked at me and said "good grief, how did you know?"....."Oh" says I, "many, many years of teaching one hour slots. I'm pretty expert now at guaging it"..... He was so impressed that he went into the kitchen to tell his wife by which time I couldn't 'fess up!! They think I'm quite the marvel!

I do however, ALWAYS notice when anyone in my class looks at their watch and today my namesake surpassed herself.... "Juliet did you just look at your watch" I asked and swift as you like, she quite brilliantly replied "Oh, I am just enjoying this SO MUCH, I can't bear to think it's nearly over".

WORKSHOPS . I am planning some Saturday morning online workshops. While these will be geared towards Pilates teachers, if you attend my classes and think you fancy the idea of some master classes and some new ideas for small equipment and better understanding how to adapt the moves, you will be very welcome. Please email me for more info.

Have a lovely weekend and don't forget, next week is the last in the block :)

Class info for next week.

Monday - 9am. Roller repeated.

Tuesday - 8am. Just mat.

9am. Let's break down some of the moves. Just mat.

Thursday 8am. Miniloop. Your flexiband and two freezer clips will work (or a pair of tights tied in a knot) Repeated.

9.15 Let's attack some of those moves that tend to get the better of us and find ways and means around them! Just mat and all levels.

Friday . 8am. Sequences. Putting several exercises together to add some flow and challenge. Modifications available. Just mat .

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute.

Block 6. Week 3.

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:46:20 GMT

Nails are painted, hair is cut and coloured, mat, notebook and bag sit by the door and phone is charging. New leggings sit laid out, lunch is packed and alarm is set fo 5.45 am tomorrow. I am ready for a day up in't big smoke as I head off to our annual Pilates convention. We were offered the chance to do it on zoom but quite frankly I am really looking forward to seeing all my fellow teachers and "getting over the grids" as we say in the Forest!!!!

My friend and fellow teacher is picking me up at 6.30 am and we have 5 sessions over 9 hours to "enjoy".... a couple of 90 mins classes as well as lots of theory but not missing the pleasure of seeing my Pilates buds with lots of gossip. (Never trust a Pilates teacher who doesn't practise Pilates!).

I am promising myself a hot bath and early night. Slight deviation as I had a really lovely dog walk with fabulous friends and followed up with drinks in the Turfcutters this afternoon (while the barman played "chuckit" with all our dogs!!) and am currently rather addicted to BBC's Life and I can't possibly leave Alison Steadman in her current situation. If you don't know what I am talking about, head to Iplayer as you are denying yourself some brilliantly written and incredibly acted TV drama.

This week's classes were fabulous. You are all fabulous. Keep up the good work. I plan to have one single code for the next block's classes which will make life SO much easier. I am also working with Box Pr on some website changes and tweaks and a few new ideas to really embrace the online experience... let's face it - we are online and here to stay so let's make it work for us! I for one am really enjoying the interactive experience and always welcome your comments.

Thank you for the suggetion of meeting for coffee for those of us local to where I used to teach. Steffs Kitchen will take bookings of tables of 6 so we can meet and move around tables. I will propose some dates next week.

Have a great weekend and PLEASE see all info below for next week!!! When you open your class, please check in here and be ready!!!!

Monday - 9am. After huge demand, THE ROLLER is back - interactive.

Tuesday - 8am - Magic circle. LOADS of new ideas following on from the convention!!!!

9am. Full body workout with LOADS of nagging about technique - interactive and this week I won't forget and get the classes mixed up!!!! Have a towel and block handy

Thursday 8am. Miniloop. Your flexiband and two freezer clips will work (or a pair of tights tied in a knot - will explain when I see you!)

9.15 A full body workout and all levels catered for. Please do not underestimate the benefits of stripping it back to basics and really working on the principles and the original method of Pilates. Have your soft ball handy

Friday . 8am. Sequences. Putting several exercises together to add some flow and challenge. Modifications available. Please have your magic circle and block

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Please drop me a line/give me a ring if you have any queries regarding equipment and how to substitute.

Block 6. Week 2. Oct 5 - 9

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 16:58:02 GMT

HHappy Fri "yay" all

WHAT a filthy day. I was terribly amused this morning as we had a chat about the weather and discussed depressing of Dibden Purlieu, horrible of Hythe, lousy of London, monstrous of Moonhills, pissing down of Portmore, bloody awful of Blackfield, wild of Wakefield, lively of Lyndhurst, diabolical of Derby, revolting of Romsey... Wet of Winchester.... oh! I could go on... (I don't get out much you know!!)

What a great week. Welcome to FOUR new members and it is so lovely to see our little online family grow. I am increasingly enjoying the convenience of being online although I have had a little "studio envy" and was starting to think about converting a spare room until I spoke to a very good friend and member of our online family yesterday when wearing mask and heading to the post office I saw her parked... (seriously, it is all go here) who assured me that me in my lounge pushing furniture out of the way is what makes it what it is..... I hope you all agree. ( don't get that at David Lloyd!)

I have however, ordered a studio light - today was the first dark morning and I was terribly distracted by this shadow dancing around on the wall behind me!!! It was like a monster mimicking every move I did....

One thing I need to mention is that if you have purchased one of my recorded classes, please do make sure you have downloaded it. I am having an afternoon of admin tomorrow (see - told you I don't get out much/at all) and I am going to reorganise my recorded classes library and when I make new folders and move them around , the link will no longer work. Then you will have to email me to re-request the link and it all gets very faffy and quite frankly, that is SO boring. I'd rather watch the new series of All Creatures Great and Small with lots of happy sighs, reminiscing about my old farming and horsey days in Yorkshire while telling Bertie "well, he aint no Robert Hardy quite frankly.....( I used to have QUITE the crush on RH... his Desert Island Discs sends me all a flutter but that might be over share... . )

I am off to my annual Pilates convention next weekend. I cannot TELL you how excited I am. Apart from meeting up with all my Pilates teacher friends in the big city, I get to spend a day fully immersed in all things Pilates alongside my master trainer Jo who I have done so many qualifications with but as a real bonus, also Brooke Siler. Brooke is one of the biggest names in the global world of Pilates and I am soooo excited!!!! I have followed her for years and have all her books and next Saturday I will be doing around 7 hours straight of Pilates, with more learning about anatomy, special populations, cueing, age related adaptation.... we have a saying - "Never trust a Pilates teacher who does not practise Pilates" and I hope you are all reassured that I am ALWAYS learning, revising, researching and working to be the best I can be. I used to say to my children that my mantra was ' you don't need to be the best, but you need to be the best that you can be". Now I just say "why don't you ever ring me?" but life moves on....

Next week's class info below. Have a wonderful weekend and see you next week. Siegfried is calling....

Monday - 9am. Pole, flexiband and 2 freezer clips - interactive

Tuesday - 8am Soft ball - if you don't have a ball, you can use a rolled up towel or cushion. Interactive

9am. Full body workout with LOADS of nagging about technique - interactive

Thursday 8am. Have a wall or a door to. work with.

9.15 Balance and back work. Just because we are green does not mean we are meandering up the river...... I wil be pushing you!

Friday . 8am.Repeat of last Friday morning. It's brutal. We can do it....

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Block 6. Week 1. Sept 28 - Oct 2

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 14:41:44 GMT

Hello everyone.

Surely I am not the only one who thinks the weeks are just whizzing by! I cannot believe we are preparing to start Block 6. Autumn is most definitely upon us and staying online is definitely helping us avoid all the constant updates, restrictions, changes to rules... does anyone actually know who is allowed to do what and where?!! Apart from my work guidlines I have to admit to being very confused!

It has been lovely to be so much more interactive in the classes and treat it almost as if we are face to face. I have been getting in early with a quick coffee to see you and have a chat and I have changed Zoom settings so that when you log in from next week you will be OFF MUTE to enable you to interact more easily and you then have the option of putting mute on rather than the other way around. Remember that every class is open 15 mins early to allow you to check your connection, set up your screen to the right angle and hopefully join some of us for a chat, while possibly using your tennis or prickly ball for some foot massage.

Some of you have done every single day that I have taught and I know that pretty much all of you have been doing multiple classes either live or the recordeds on "catch up" every week and I know you can really see such a difference. I definitely can. To really make my point, in a recent face to face class, a rather brillliant client who has been with me online since the start joined a far more advanced class with some reluctance and despite the age difference, she was by far and away the most able in the class against some who have done nothing for 6 months!!! It really, really shows (oh and I was SO proud of you and you know who you are!!) - just look how you power on through the 34 moves now. We are doing some really advanced work and you are all doing a marvellous job. To quote Joseph Pilates, the more we ask of the body, the more it will give.

I continue to practise what I preach and have been doing online classes with my super Teacher of Teachers and also following other Pilates peers and joining their classes online and have really enjoying getting my own practise and, I hope sharing new tips and ideas with you. I am off to my annual Pilates Convention in London (- well I hope I am, it might be on Zoom which would be a pity) in 2 weeks where I will be fully immersed in all things Pilates for 8 hours and come home brimming with new ideas, different tweaks and twists and I will be very excited to bring that into our classes!!

I have seen the home studios grow and take shape and in some cases, turning the spare room over or for one, a fantastic and fully equipped studio in the garage complete with wifi booster!!! We are all really making a success of this online business and I for one, continue to enjoy it enormously in the absence of being able to see you face to face and embracing the next best option!

This weekend I am assessing the Pilates teachers of tomorrow as they do their final practical exams and give me their portfolios to mark and for one or maybe two of you who are reading this.. don't worry, I am in a very good mood!!!

I have been tremendously flattered and chuffed to see so many fellow teachers continue to subscribe to my classes which I take as a huge compliment alongside all my wonderful, loyal and longstanding clients who are all friends really!

On receipt of payment, I will send out the new password and really look forward to seeing you next week. Just a couple of points to mention -

Please note the class times are listed below and I apologise for the confusion over the Thursday class

I am making the Friday second class 15 mins later. The 8am is a tough one and I need just a few more mins to run off and have a super speedy shower before the second class as these last two weeks, I have got really chilly.

Please note the class description. However even the most adanced of you will benefit from checking in to a slower and more technique based class from time to time and those of you are a little more cautious could try joining the more advanced classes and suprise yourself with just what you can acheieve along with a few options thrown in by me.

I am going to repeat classes for 2 weeks sometimes so we can be interactive and sometimes I can then record and you can follow OR just give you a second stab at the class when you know a bit more of what to expect. I am repeating the Pelvic floor/hip mobilty class this coming week and we will again practise the Pelvic clock. If you would like some more details on this to practise, please drop me an email.

I will be updating the recorded classes with the new password over the weekend.

Have a great weeknd and I really hope to see you very soon. All the other info is below!

Juliet x

The Boring but necessary - By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website.

PLEASE ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR SPACE TO WORK IN WITH PLENTY OF LIGHT AND VENTILATION. PLEASE REMOVE ANY OBVIOUS HAZARDS.

Have a couple of towels handy. Really useful to roll up as a lumbar support, to pop under knees to soften straight legs, to fold up under your head etc. etc......

Monday - 9am. Magic circle. Full body workout. Interactive.

Tuesday - 8am Just mat. Full body workout. Interactive

9am. Have your flexiband and a cushion/blocK. Focusing on pelvic stability and pelvic floor connection. Have your prickly ball/tennis ball to start with. Interactive.

Thursday 8am. Focus on the lower body. Interactive.

9.15 Working with the wall. If you dont have a wall, use a door!!!!! Angle your screen accordingly as we are interactive.

Friday . 8am. Just mat. Interactive.

9.15am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Block 5. Week 4. 21 - 25 Sept

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 16:15:06 GMT

Hello everyone.

What a week! You have all worked SO hard and I have really enjoyed being more interactive.... although I hear there have been a few comments to "friends" (who feed back to me!!!!! ...oh yes, they do! ) that have been a few "OMG now she can see EVERYTHING, its a NIGHTMARE" comments..... very entertaining!!! and YES - I can!!! and I LOVE it!! so you have been warned!!! I have loads of recorded classes to keep rotating so I intend to do plenty more interaction so please remember to be "off mute" and chat to me! Let's make it as close to a face to face class as we can so do please feel free to share how you feel (well - to a point.....) and ask if you are not sure and let's work together as much as possible! Seeing and chatting to you in my living room really is a pleasure!

As you know, I open every class 15 mins before we start so please pop in with your coffee/mint tea/water and lemon around 5/10 mins before and let's have a pre class catch up!

This is the last week in the block so as Boris tightens restrictions and it all starts to get a lot more boring again, do remember to subscribe to the new block. Whatever happens "out there", in here is still consistent and going strong!

All class info below.

The Boring but necessary - By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website.

PLEASE ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR SPACE TO WORK IN WITH PLENTY OF LIGHT AND VENTILATION. PLEASE REMOVE ANY OBVIOUS HAZARDS.

Have a couple of towels handy. Really useful to roll up as a lumbar support, to pop under knees to soften straight legs, to fold up under your head etc. etc......

Monday - 9am. Working with the towel. Full body workout. DO NOT underestimate the power of the towel! Have a tennis ball/prickly ball to start with. Interactive.

Tuesday - 8am Just mat. ALL ABOUT THE ABS. Interactive and it is going to be tough (but there are ALWAYS ways to reduce the challenge so come along!)

9am. Have your flexiband and a cushion/blocK. Focusing on pelvic stability and pelvic floor connection. Have your prickly ball/tennis ball to start with. Interactive.

Thursday 8am. 34 Moves. Yup. Come on you warriors... and interactive so forget any short cuts....

9.15 Working with the wall. If you dont have a wall, use a door!!!!! Angle your screen accordingly as we are interactive. Have your prickly ball/tennis ball to start with.

Friday . 8am. Just mat. Recorded and a repeat of today's class... gulp....

9am. Just mat but always have your usual props. A lovely wrap up to the week with stretch, mobility and relaxation. Interactive.

Info on classes for the Winter term

Wed, 16 Sep 2020 13:52:53 GMT

Hello to you all and to Autumn 2020. Here we are, six months online and we are unquestionably stronger together.

I have given a huge amount of thought as to how to move forwards and how to best manage my classes. As much as I would love to return to the energy and social benefits of seeing you face to face, I have all our best interests at heart and for that reason, I have decided to remain online for the remainder of this year. This decision has not come lightly. However I feel that it is the best decision for us. As we head into the season of sniffles and coughs and with restrictions ever-changing, I would like to be one of your constants that doesn’t keep changing. To do that and so we can stick together, online is the way we need to go.

I teach seven classes a week (not including recorded classes available to you on catch up) so if you do one live class every day that I teach, that gives you 16 live classes for £40 while our face to face classes are £10 each. I know many of you do classes daily and have seen the benefits as opposed to your once or twice a week option when we were in the hall and being online has provided this for us. Also, if you do have a bit of a cough or a temperature, we can all still attend the class together safely from our homes. My classes are 45 minutes and without the travel time, chatting in the car park, finding somewhere to park and one thing or another we have also found the online option to be massively convenient. We are live and interactive, I have my glasses on and I am watching you and am available to chat to if you need me.

It has proved so convenient, you can access the classes from anywhere in the world, so wherever you are, you can still get your Pilates fix with me! I have really enjoyed seeing friends and relatives join the same class to be able to see each other and work together despite living in different counties, countries or even continents! I love being more interactive with you and doing more correction and I will definitely keep that going. I do call you out by name to offer adaptation and correction so if you are not comfortable with that, please do let me know.

I sincerely hope to return to the hall as soon as I am confident that it is safe and responsible to do so and I hope you will support my decision. We are all in this together, and through the support you have given me, I have been able to keep the classes at such a competitive price, so to pinch an old cliché, if you like my online classes please tell all your friends and share the love and if you don't, please tell me! I will offer a £10 discount or two recorded classes to anyone who recommends a friend who subscribes.

These are the blocks for the remainder of 2020:

This block ends on Friday Sept 25.

Block 6. Mon 28 Sept to Fri 23 Oct. Payment by no later than Friday 25 Sept to receive your new password in time.

Block 7. Wed 28 Oct to Fri 20 Nov. Please note no classes on Mon and Tues of the first week but recorded classes will be added. Payment please by no later than Fri 23 Oct.

Block 8. Mon 23 Nov to Fri 18 Dec. Payment please by no later than Fri 20 Nov to allow me to get the new password out to you in time.

For ease and convenience, Zoom codes will remain the same and I will send you the new password every four weeks on receipt of payment. To receive your new password, please pay the week before to give me time to process it.

A little admin.....

By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website. Please always advise me of any change to your physical well being.

Catch up with friends for a chat before class. All my classes open 15 minutes early and I encourage you to log in with your morning coffee (or green tea!).

PLEASE do try and log into the class at an earlier time to check you can connect . You can log in at any time, not just when the class is scheduled and I have set that up purely to let you check your connection so when you are watching Coronation Street or whatever floats your boat, just try logging in to all the classes so you are prepared and will have time to get in touch with me if there is a problem.

Please always have a cushion and a towel handy. The humble towel doubles up as a head support, lumbar support, rolled up to keep knees inline and much more. Also, please have your prickle ball or a tennis ball and if you have a couple of minutes at the start of the class, some foot massage will be really beneficial. I'll cover this when we meet.

I look forward to seeing you online and will be there before class starts for a chat! Incidentally, exercise/fitness classes run outside can still have groups of up to 30 so our garden classes continue to be very popular. If you would like to organise a small group while this weather holds, do let me know.

I will continue to post here every Friday to give you time to prepare equipment for the following week and for you to decide what class suits you.

Many thanks for your support and as always, do please get in touch with any queries.

Juliet x

Block 5, week 3. Sept. 11 - 18

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 18:03:55 GMT

Happy Friday everyone.

It really is life on a loop isn't it? I remember having a what's app converstion with someone saying we couldn't beleive it was Friday again, and that was 11 weeks ago.... helllllllpppppppp..... thank GOODNESS for Pilates online!!! I will be putting up an additional post about the remainder of this year and online dates soon.

I have also added a couple of new recorded classes for you.

I wanted to explain Mary ..... I just posted on soash meedya so I copy - " I think everyone who joins my classes online has now bought all their own equipment BUT, ever resourceful, I’d like to point out that this lovely lady’s book makes a superb Pilates block and, unlike the purpose made boring foam rectangle, you and Mary can have loads of fun after class in the kitchen. You’re welcome "

A really great week this week and my apologies for making the classes SO HARD - having acutally done a few now, I can only apologise! Got a bit carried away and standing there watching you on screen means I don't do as much so I got it a bit easy!! Having said that, I have really enjoyed doing more in the way of observing and working with you and hope you agree. I will be bolder as we go on with regards to calling you out by name in order to correct and guide so if you are not comfortable with that, please just let me know. I have decided to sometimes repeat classes so that you can anticipate and see progression - generally interacting and offering guidance and correction the first time and then leading you and recording in the next one so again, I always appreciate your comments but hope you realise that I don't just cobble it togther but put a lot of thought into what we are doing every week!! As you know, I did 3 online courses during full on lockdown and am currently having 2 private online lessons myself weekly in addition to attending other classes online so I really do pratise what I preach. I hope you will enjoy a few tweaks and variations on different exercises as I sometimes pick up ideas and try them out. Always learning!!!

I am always happy take requests and really appreciate the feedback as it helps me to be the best I can and identify where I need to adapt or just bask! so Thank you.

The Boring but necessary - PLEASE ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR SPACE TO WORK IN WITH PLENTY OF LIGHT AND VENTILATION. PLEASE REMOVE ANY OBVIOUS HAZARDS. IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO ALWAYS HAVE TO HAND YOUR FLEXIBAND, BLOCK AND SOFT BALL.

By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website.

Have a couple of towels handy. Really useful to roll up as a lumbar support, to pop under knees to soften straight legs, to fold up under your head etc. etc......

Week 3. 14 - 18 Sept. When it says "Just" mat - do not assume the "just" means a snooze..... "just" saying....

Monday - 9am. A hand towel. DO NOT underestimate the power of the towel!

Tuesday - 8am Just mat. Interactiave so have your screen set up and get ready to work HARD

9am. Just mat but always have your block/cushion handy

Thursday 8am. Pole -(broom handle). Interactive

9.15Just mat

Friday . 8am. Just mat.

9am. Just mat.

Block 5 Week 2. Sept 7-11

Fri, 04 Sep 2020 10:56:41 GMT

Well, where would we be without a few glitches and slip up's.... sorry for the website not matching the email times I sent out. Totally my fault and now all rectified! All class details are still here too but apologies nonetheless.

As we face another barrage of "smart child standing by the front door in school uniform" photos on Facebook, it reminded me of when a group of us did that last year at Beaulieu village hall. Can you beleive it is a whole year since we stood proudly by the hall door holding mats and looking smart!!!

It has been great to see you all again and such a great turn out! I can see that online is still really working for so many of us. I have particularly enjoyed being more interactive and seeing you and offering more in the way of corrections. I hope you feel the same way!!! Do always feedback to me as your comments help me to try and deliver the best I can.

Please see details for classes next week. Remember you can access the class at any time (I wont be there!!) to check your connection so please do try if you haven't already so that you are prepared for any unseen hiccoughs.

Have a lovely weekend and see you next week.

Jx

The new timetable for the remainder of this block will be

Mondays - 9am. All levels. Small equipment

Tuesdays. 8am. Advanced.

9am. Mixed ability

Thursdays 8am Mixed ability but with challenge with flow and sequencing - not suitable for beginners

9.15 - Beginner/back care but suitable for all

Fridays 8am HITT / Circuits /34 - the tough one!

9am Stretch and relax

PLEASE ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR SPACE TO WORK IN WITH PLENTY OF LIGHT AND VENTILATION. PLEASE REMOVE ANY OBVIOUS HAZARDS. IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO ALWAYS HAVE TO HAND YOUR FLEXIBAND, BLOCK AND SOFT BALL.

By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website.

Week 2. 7-11 Sept.

Monday - 9am. Magic Circle. Interactive

Tuesday - 8am Just mat. Interactiave so have your screen set up and get ready to work HARD

9am. Roller. Interactive.

Thursday 8am. Pole -(broom handle). Recorded.

9.15 Block, soft ball and band. Recorded

Friday . 8am. Flexiband and soft ball. Recorded.

9am. Have your flexiband. Interactive

Block 5. Week 1. Sept 1 - 25

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 10:19:46 GMT

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all having as best a summer as you can, with this current rain, high wind and very "un August" like weather.

I really look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on screen from next week and please see below the new timetable. There are slightly less classes but I hope you agree that you are still getting great value for money as we navigate around this strange time! I am looking forward to some more interaction so make sure you have your screen set up so that I can see you more clearly as I plan to be standing up at my screen and calling you out a LOT more this term!!

As always, please make payment of £40 for the new block either via my website or you can BACS me and the details are Juliet Nicholas t/a Juliets Pilates - s/c 40-30-36. Acc. no 21505734

The cost of £40 will provide you with 28 live and interactive classes and plenty of recordeds so I hope you feel you are still getting great value!

On receipt of payment I will send you the new codes and the password but please allow a few days as I am still on leave. I guarantee you will recieve details before the Bank holiday Monday.

I really do look forward to seeing you all again and have lots of ideas and new challenges for you so make sure you get signed up!

From next week, I will return to posting on Fridays and please note that I will also, in addition to listing what you are doing in what class, be listing what classes willl be observed and what will be recorded to give everyone some attention but to continue the recorded library. So if the class is listed as "Intereactive" it means I will be watching you and need you to have your screen set accordinngly (as best you can!) and "Recorded" means I will be leading the class and recording and not observing/correcintg - just as we have been doing but now you will have prior warning!

As always, I am trying to be as inclusive as I can so don't let the title of the class put you off without checking with me first as there are always ways to adapt and modify. If the class is challenging and you choose to work at a less intensive level from home then this is where the online option is a benefit as you can adapt to slow things or work at a less challenging level while still being part of the class. Noone else wil be watching you! Likewise you can be in a slower class but put in more reps. or take the exercise to a more challenging level where you feel it is appropriate without distacting those who are working at a less challenging level. I am delighted to continue to offer a varied and busy timetable and hope that there is plenty for everyone.

The new timetable for the remainder of this block will be

Mondays - 9am. All levels. Small equipment

Tuesdays. 8am. Advanced.

9am. Mixed ability

Thursdays 8am Mixed ability but with challenge with flow and sequencing - not suitable for beginners

9.15 - Beginner/back care but suitable for all

Fridays 8am HITT / Circuits /34 - the tough one!

9am Stretch and relax

PLEASE ALWAYS HAVE A CLEAR SPACE TO WORK IN WITH PLENTY OF LIGHT AND VENTILATION. PLEASE REMOVE ANY OBVIOUS HAZARDS. IT WOULD BE USEFUL TO ALWAYS HAVE TO HAND YOUR FLEXIBAND, BLOCK AND SOFT BALL.

By joining my online classes, you confirm you have read and agreed to the terms of my disclaimer found on my website.

Week 1. 1 - 4 Sept.

Tuesday - 8am just mat. Interactiave so have your screen set up

9am. Just you and your mat. Interactive.

Thursday 8am. Just you and your mat. Recorded.

9.15 Just you and your mat. Interactive.

Friday . 8am. Flexiband and soft ball. Interactive.

9am. Soft ball and block. Interactive.

See you next Tuesday x

August info

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 18:45:33 GMT

WOOOHOOOOOO - the sun's out, it is August tomorrow and we have completed 20 weeks of pretty successful online classes. I cannot believe how my lounge became a site for running a studio and how well it has actually all turned out. I do keep hitting the light fitting when I lift my arms up, Bertie does occasionally interrupt barking and my non slip mat invariably slips away towards the garden doors. However, it has been my pleasure and joy to meet new clients, continue with so many existing as well as reconnect with those of you who have moved out of the area and abroad. We have all learned so much and while it is not the same as seeing you all face to face and having the energy and personal contact of a class, the online ones have been certainly pretty successful and very convenient really - to be able to throw a mat down in the kitchen, do a full class and be back up and at your usual life within an hour has given us an idea of making different options work. It has been my pleasure to see so many of you "in my lounge" over the last few months and I do thank you for your support and commitment.

There are lots of posts on social media about things we have learned during lockdown. I have been reflecting and here are a few of mine..

1. People don't read their emails

2. You would be amazed at how many ways I can configure the furniture in the lounge to provide a space to zoom from.

3. None of them work as well as the first attmept.

4. None of them allow me to stand with my hands to the ceiling on screen no matter how much I try.

5. The light fitting was above me and totally in the way in March. It still is.

6. People don't read their emails.

7. Dismantling a superking bed single handedly and dragging it and it's mattress out of a spare room to try out a better home studio space will almost certainly produce inappropriate language and tears.

8 Zoom is an amazing platform to transfer pretty much my entire business online.

9. Zoom is a total pain in the proverbial when it doesn't work.

10. You can just fall out of bed and roll down the stairs with sticky up hair and no make up and pull it off by the skin of your teeth in front of the camera.

11. Eating your own bodyweight in pizza and prosecco for most of locodown whilst binging on Netflix will make you very fat and when you go into rollover you will think you are going to suffocate. You will also have limited wardrobe choices.

12. I know it says locodown.. that was my deliberate attempt at being hugely funny and sharp... play on words and all that

13.. Doing every single class every single day is utterly exhausting.

14. Doing 21 consecutive days of live online classes for free at the start of lockdown is insanely exhasting. Joe Wicks deserves a medal (or the several million £'s he is going to make)

15. Doing Pilates and Prosecco for several of those classes is tremendously funny and fun.

16. BT customer services operators can be a bit senstive.

17. People have gone a bit mad

18. I always was

19. . Paint can sometimes take several coats and several days to dry to it's true colour. Do not throw a tanturm at this.

20 Doing every single class every single day has made me so strong. You too - you have shown that. Some of you have been doing classes every day and you are ROCKIN - I am so proud of you in a creepy and weird " I am not actually even your mum" kind of way

21. You are all absolutely amazing. You have given my every lockdown day a purpose and a shape. If I hadn't had to run a business and share all your energy, humour and hard work and receive your wonderful support I might have gone as mad as everyone else...

21 That previous commment was tongue in cheek

22. The one about me going mad, not about how fabulous you all are

23. I think the tiredness has actually finally felled me. After a two day fitness charity event last week, (why not?!) I what's app'd a friend. I meant to say "in the bath with Prosecco" but what they actually received was "In Bath with Priscilla". It was 11pm on a Saturday and they were intrigued.

24. That actually isn't my worst typo. I once messaged a friend who had recently experienced a very messy relationsip break up after a relationship of many years. Hoping to wish her a very, very lovely seasons' greetings, I actually messaged her to wish her a very, very lonely Christmas.

25 I have the most amazing clients/friends and feel very lucky to have seen you all every day to keep ME going!!!

26. Did I mention that people don't read their emails?

So onto August. Next week, I will be running a scaled down schedule and really hope to see you. We are going to meet at Roundhills campsite which is between Beaulieu and Brockenhurst for real, face to face classes. Please bring your own mat, water, anything else you need (flask of coffee?) and I shall bring cake! I cannot WAIT to see you in person. The campsite is closed but there is enough space to park just for the time we are there. I will set up near to the. pond. I hope to see as many of you as possible and will be zooming some of the classes to those of you further away. Will you let me know if you intend to come to the outdoor class? Just so I know if it is going to work?

I have a library of over 30 classes that I will be loading up for everyone who subscirbes for August. For £20 you can have next week's classes and plenty of recorded classes to keep you fabulously fit until September. Payment please by Sun 2 Aug so I can send you all info.

I will keep an eye on proceedings of course and will be taking a view to our starting to return to face to face classes in halls in October. That however, is not guarnateed as we all know that this is an ever evolving situation. I will of course keep you updated but I can once again confirm that I will not be back in face to face classes in halls before then. While the weather allows, garden classes have been a huge success so do let me know if you would like to arrange something in Sept.

Garden classes have been a huge success and I have been seeing a lot of you regularly and let's hope that can continue in September until such a time as.

If you have loaned small equipment from me, I am now doing a round up as I have a waiting list of people who would like to purchase so please let me know asap.

I am turning my laptop off on Friday 7th August. Please get all enquiries in by then.

I really hope to see as many of you as possible next week and in the meantime, you know where I am if I can help and have a great weekend.

Classes next week

Monday - no classes

Tuesday - 9am - Mixed ability. Roundhills campsite. Zoom code will be sent on receipt of payment for the new block for those not attending in person.

Wednesday - no classes

Thursday - 9.00 am Mixed ability. Roundhills - details as above

Friday - 8.30am - advanced and 9.30am Stretch and relax - online. Zoom codes will be sent out.

If the weather turns, all classes will of course be online. Please do not try and access classes via the weblinks here. I will send every subscriber codes by Monday.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 4. Week 4.

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 06:58:57 GMT

IT'S THE END OF TERM!!!!!!!! Can you believe it?? 16 weeks online - well actually 19 weeks in total with the first 3 weeks included before we went official. Quite rememarkable. It has been wonderful to see so many of you so frequently and thank goodness for technology to allow us to keep going.

So to look forwards... this block ends next Friday 31st July. I have made a plan for August while I take some time off. I really hope we have good weather in which case for the first week of the month, I intend to offer some face to face classes out in the forest. I am going to do a quick reccie to check what parking is available and will confirm in next week's Latest News what venues we will use and what times. I will also be including online so I will check that I can get wifi and still teach online from wherever we are to include those of you who are not local and then of course, if the weather turns all the classes will be online. I thought it would be lovely to try and wrap up the term by seeing eachtohter so fingers crossed.

So for August, the first week will be a reduced schedule of classes online and hopefully live, and then for the remainder of the month, I will be putting up loads of recorded classes with lots of information to help you navigate around and find what is suitable. I am charging £20 for the 4 weeks to include the first week of live classes (reduced timetable) and 3 weeks of recorded classes. Please make payment for the 4 week block of August by Friday 31 July.

Please may I ask those of you who have borrowed equipment to get in touch and let me know if you would like to purchase or return for Sept? I will put more about Sept. and beyond in next week's letter.

I would like to thank everyone who has been subscribing for your loyalty and support by offering you a downloadable class to keep. If you email me with your preference, I will endeavour to match your requirements. I had hoped to have a fancy new page on my website with a whole library of the videod classes for you to scroll through but I am afraid that is still in the planning stages so just give me a guide and I will do my best. It will happen. Just not quite yet!! A big thank you from me to you.

Fitness Unites - if you have any questions about the event this weekend, please get in touch. Hopefully everyone who has subscribed will now have the relevant codes but do let me know if I can help at all.

So - all info on next week's classes is listed below. As a special end of term treat - On Thursday we will be doing the 34 ALL THE WAY THROUGH AND THEN BACK AGAIN. If you wish to join, all levels can be accomodated but do check the recorded classes that I have left up on the website with all the adaptations as I will not be hanging about on this one! ! We will have to get a wriggle on so I will be starting at 8am prompt and apolgise in advance if the 9am starts a little late... hopefully not but you heard it here first.

Have a great weekend and see you soon and as always you know where I am if you have any queries. If you are still having trouble getting online or not seeing the update times PLEASE let me know and I can send you a really short recording of instructions very kindly sent by a lovely friend trying to help me with the technology glitches!!

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

The Tuesday and Thursday classes are 9am NOT 915am - you may need to refresh your page but I have updated on the website!

Please do not be put off by the level. For example in the Intermediate/Advanced, it doesn't necessarily mean all the exercieses are an advanced level but generally I will moving the exercises on more quicly with less recovery and less teaching cues so if you are confident in your practise and have experience, you can join in and modify and adapt where you need to. Likewise, the BEGINNER classes are a great opportunity for you to revise your practise and check in on where those bad habits may be sneaking in. Never understimate the demand of the BEGINNER AND TECHNIQUE classes! Feel free to give me a ring to discuss the class level and how appropriate it will be.

Please note that by joining both my live classes and taking part in recorded classes, you confirm that you have read and agreed to the disclaimer terms and conditions. It is your responsbility to advise me of any changes to your physical well being and any change to your health that may affect your ability to exercise.

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 4. JULY 27-31

Monday 9am: Just you and your mat.

Monday 10.00am: Always have a block, cushion and flexiband for this class.

Monday 12.45pm: 30 mins on the mat. Non stop flow and sequencing.

Tuesday 8am : . Alllll about the arms. Have your band and hand weights.

Tuesay 9.00am: A mishmash to focus on glutes and abs. Have your ball handy.

Thursday 8.am: The 34 MOVES - kicking off at 8am prompt and taking no prisoners.... All the through and then straight back again - we may over run the 45 mins

Thursday 9.00am. Just you and your ma t and will include all levels so its a green / orange! - please be patient if I am a little late starting this after the earlier class. End of term shennanigans.

Thursday 12.15pm 30 mins on the mat. Full body workout.

Friday 8.30am: Everything - pole, weights (tins of soup), soft ball, circle, roller... just have everything handy and have some water to hand.. it is going to be tough

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Possibly on this occasion, the lie down and collapse class...

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THERE ARE OPTIONS TO SUBSTITUTE WHERE YOU DON'T HAVE THE EXACT EQUIPMENT - ALWAYS CHECK WITH ME IF YOU ARE NOT SURE.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 4. Week 3.

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 16:24:58 GMT

This whole sitting down to write on Friday thing seems to come round so fast. Another busy week with lovely full classes online and it has been a real pleasure to see so many of you for real this week, as the weather has allowed us to do several garden classes - fully respecting social distancing of course.

So a couple of points.... ( I even write "So" - I have become horribly aware of how many times I say "so" and "right" in classes... having watched hours of recorded's!)...

Some of you have been asking about August and I will be putting more info out nearer the time but I wanted to mention what my plan is. It is my intention to teach some real, face to face and "out in the forest" classes during the first week of August. After 24 July, we can increase the class size so while I will still totally respect the guidelines, I would like to have a few end of term outside classes. If weather allows, those of you who are in the NF can come along, bring your mat and meet for real and now that I am a whizz on "hot spotting", I will still Zoom to those of you further afield and we will all wave at you.. It may be pouring of course in which case we shall continue at home but that is a small plan that is forming. I am currently thinking about where may be appropriate as somewhere a little discreet, to offer parking, some shade and away from the obvious tourist areas and suggestions are welcome. If you happen to have the space and dont mind hosting, do let me know - otherwise we shall be somewhere in the forest. I thought we could bring coffee and cakes and just enjoy seeing eachtother!

I will run a slightly reduced class schedule for the first week of August and I am then taking the following 3 weeks off; (I know?!! it really is all about me isn't it?!!) but I will be putting up a whole range of recorded classes to keep you busy and will update and refresh. I will charge £20 (practicallly free) for the first week of live classes in whateve format that takes and the subsequent 3 weeks of loads of recorded classes. I also have a little "Thank you" for your loyalty and support but more of that next week. So - that is the idea and I hope that meets with your approval.

I am also taking note of which classes seem to suit with a view to the Autumn schedule (but let's not mention Autumn again for a while).

Secondly, I have been looking at all the info and chatting with my peers in the business and I think it is fair to say that we will not be offering small equipment anytime soon ( and more realistially over a year away) and will require you to bring your own. I plan, when we are back in the hall etc., to do a post weekly just like this so that we can plan what you will need to bring. I am therefor happy to sell anything that I have loaned out. I have a few soft balls left and literally a garage full of mats so if you need me to deflate a ball and stick it in the post do let me know. I have come up with the following

Roller £10

Ball £3

Magic Circle £8

Bands - Throw in for free

or £20 for all the above if that is what you have. If you do wish to purchase, please BACS me but PLEASE email me first as I have a big list on the fridge that I need to tick off. Likewise if you do not wish to purchase and would like to return, that is absolutely fine. If you have borrowed equipment and are not going to continue, I will arrange to meet you and collect during the next couple of weeks.

I hope that all seems fair and reasonable.

I am putting up the 34 moves from this week but at a modified level so do have a go and please let me know how you get on.... and ON THE LAST THURSDAY 8AM OF THIS BLOCK WE ARE DOING THE 68 - ALL THE WAY THROUGH AND THEN BACKWARDS - YES WE ARE..... (that is 34 + 34.... just checking )

And so to next week. - I need to warn you that I am embarking on a juicing sesh. As lots of you know, I used to (and may be again) work at the Juicing Retreats in Turkey and Portugal and am a devotee. Quite frankly if I don't do something soon, you will have to turn your screen to landscape to fit me in.... so for those of you who have not experinced "Juliet juicing"...... the energy and enthusiasm will be through the roof by about Tuesday.... it could be a tough week for all. Don't mention the war and fasten your seatbelt.... drastic measures. as when someone popped over and commented on how grey I looked in real life and it didn't show on Zoom, my haridresser (no longer grey) mentioned about "all you middle aged women" (currently lookng for a new hairdresser) and when I sat down on a "friend's" bar stool this week, she said how rickety it looked and "I think it will hold you".......

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

The Tuesday and Thursday classes are 9am NOT 915am - you may need to refresh your page but I have updated on the website!

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 4. JULY 20-24

Monday 9am: The Pole (broom handle) and flexiband with TWO freezer clips

Monday 10.00am: Always have a block, cushion and flexiband for this class. Let's throw in some small weights - a couple of tins of soup will be fine.

Monday 12.45pm: 30 mins on the mat. It is going to be tough in as much as it is non stop. No equipment.

Tuesday 8am : . A flexiband and a freezer clip unless you have a miniloop or fit band - either way, a band made into a small loop to inflict ...... challenge

Tuesay 9.00am: Angle your screen so that you can use a wall - We have loads more to do here!!!!

Thursday 8.am: The 34 MOVES - kicking off at 8am prompt and taking no prisoners....

Thursday 9.00am. The magic circle. mixed abilty and will include all levels so its a green / orange!

Thursday 12.15pm 30 mins on the mat. ALLL about the legs.....

Friday 8.30am: Usually the circuits class but this time, it is going to be allllllll about the abs. ... a chance for me to also have a full dress rehearsal for the Abs class I am delivering NEXT SATURDAY 25 JULY FOR THE FITNESS UNITES EVENT. No equipment needed but perhaps a box of tissues. Prepare to cry.......mwoooohahahahahh

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Always have your block, flexiband and soft ball to hand. This is the class where I try out the being nice and gentle option.... a work in progess....

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THERE ARE OPTIONS TO SUBSTITUTE WHERE YOU DON'T HAVE THE EXACT EQUIPMENT - ALWAYS CHECK WITH ME IF YOU ARE NOT SURE.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 4. Week 2.

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 16:17:57 GMT

I think the less said about this week the better... don't you!! I am still without internet "hub", am still "hot spotting" and facing a weekend without binging on "This is Us" as was intended. Just as well it is going to be sunny then!!

I am going through my emials and if I haven't yet replied, I will do and thank you SO much for your support and lovely messages. Honestly, it means so much.

Recorded classes - I do not understand why some of you are having problems accessing these. I have looked and I cannot see a problem. I will possibly pop down to Steffs tomorrow ( THE most amazing place to grab a coffee and something to eat) and use the wifi and see what is going on. I also know I need to update the recordeds which is very much on the "to do" list. In my defence, this has been the first technology glitch since we started so all in all, this continues to be a successful way forwards.

I must be tired - this morning I went to put on the kettle and then thought "oh no, I can't make a cup of tea, I don't have any wifi"...... Oh dear....

I hope to have the normal wifi situation resolved by Monday and can only apologise for this week.

I know that there are updates in the press today about gyms and studios opening on July 25. There are however, very strict guidelines with regards to distancing and what steps to take and I stand by my earlier decision to stay here online for the forseeable. From the feedback, I feel that you agree and the garden classes are a very welcome addition for some of you but of course if you have any questions, please give me a ring. I am of course keeping up to speed with developments and am in talks with Future Fit about going back to tutoring again so very much up to speed with them but it is SO complicated at the mo, let's us stay in our lounge/kitchen/hall,/garden. I don't want you to think that I am not keeping an eye on developments but again, I will not be returning to halls until October at the earliest. I will, once we return, be looking at Colbury in addition to Beaulieu in addition to CONTINUING online but let's just see how it goes!

So to next week. I am going to incorporate as much as I can so that EVERYONE will be rocking the 34 moves with confidence.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 4. JULY 13 - 17

Monday 9am: The Magic circle and the dyna/flexi/theraband.

Monday 10.00am: Always have a block, cushion and flexiband for this class.

Monday 12.45pm: 30 mins on the mat. It is going to be tough in as much as it is non stop.

Tuesday 8am : . The second half of the 34 moves - broken down, built back up and put together.

Tuesay 9.15am: Angle your screen so that you can use a wall - have your usual block/cushion to hand.

Thursday 8.am: The 34 MOVES

Thursday 9.00am. Just you and your mat. This is. mixed abilty and will include all levels so its a green / orange!

Thursday 12.15pm 30 mins on the mat. Again, 30 mins non stop. It doesn't mean that the exercises are always tough but we won't stop so flowing from one move to the next to build some energy and feel a bit of puff!!!

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class. Soft ball, Roller and hand weights, (Because I forgot this morning and did the 34 instead!!!!)

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Always have your block, flexiband and soft ball to hand.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THERE ARE OPTIONS TO SUBSTITUTE WHERE YOU DON'T HAVE THE EXACT EQUIPMENT - ALWAYS CHECK WITH ME IF YOU ARE NOT SURE.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 4. Week 1.

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 15:19:13 GMT

It's Friday..... again!!!! Thank you all for your hard work this week. Wrapped up in the 34 moves this morning. It has been briliant to see so many of you "live" and to hear how much progress you are seeing by doing more classes than you may usually do.

So to a new block and a slightly altered timetable. The second Monday class will now be half hour earlier and will be including balance but will be working on backs so if you have a cranky back, make sure you get to this one.

STARTING NEXT WEEK - the Bitesized lunchbreak classes. I really hope that they work out for those of you on the school run (you have just broken up?? really?....) or those of you who are back to work will jump in and enjoy these. It continues to be a work in porgress and will change where necessary to be as incluisve as possible. I will vary the short, lunchtime classes once I see who is typically attending and what is required.

For this next block, I will be teaching The 34 Moves every Thursday at 8am and will be breaking down the moves in and amongst oher classes.

I really hope you enjoy the new timetable and continue to welcome your feedback. Please check your connections - you can access the classes at any time just to make sure you can connect. If you have the Zoom codes they are the same but of course there are a couple of new classes. You should be able to click on the webiste link and get straight in but do check.

I have really enjoyed seeing some of you in face to face garden classes and perhaps you may want to consider that as an option moving forwards. If you have a large indoor space (once the weather turns ((currently raining!!)) or you are happy to push the furniture to one side and invite a group of friends to make up your own class then do drop me a line. I do anticipte doing more along the lines of small, private groups so bear that in mind.

TEACHERS - I am delighted and very flattered (and just a little bit "kept on my toes") to see so many fellow teachers, both those of you who I have tutored and otherwise in my classes. I am planning to start a "Teachers' Masterclass" to give you class content ideas, cueing tips, ideas on how to break down and build up the more common exercise problems and offer support to you building your classes and will record the sessions for you to keep so if you think that may interest you, please drop me a line. This will be an additional, stand alone set up and charge.

PLEASE READ MY DISCLAIMER ONLINE AND ADVISE ME IF YOU EVER HAVE ANY CHANGE TO YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH THAT MAY AFFECT YOUR ABILITY TO EXERCISE.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 4. JULY 6 - 10

Monday 9am: The Pilates Pole. It is just a broom handle (head removed) but I like to make it sound more grand.

Monday 10.00am: Always have a block, cushion and flexiband for this class.

Monday 12.45pm: 30 mins on the mat.

Tuesday 8am : . Just you and your mat.

Tuesay 9.15am: Small handweights, block (large, hardbacked book will substitute) and soft ball.

Thursday 8.am: The 34 MOVES

Thursday 9.00am. Just you and your mat. This is. mixe abilty and will include all levels so its a green / orange!

Thursday 12.15pm 30 mins on the mat.

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class. Soft ball, Roller and hand weights.

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Always have your block, flexiband and soft ball to hand.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

New block, latest classes on catch up and a few other bits

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 15:41:51 GMT

Hi everyone.

As we are coming to the end of this block of classes, I thought I would touch base and just share some info to date.

Moving forwards. As you may be aware, at this time there are no guidelines and dates on gyms and studios (and of course, halls that run fitness classes) opening. I have therefor decided to make a decision rather than just running on indefinitely. I will not be returning to teaching in halls before October at the earliest. I know that this is not what some of you want to hear and I do apologise but until I can be sure to deliver my classes in a safe environment, I am sure you will all agree that it just does not make sense. In addition to that, it is simply not financially viable for me to run classes in a hired venue at 50%. capacity. It might sound forever away but I am taking time off in August and some in September and will review nearer to October. One thing I can confirm is that my online classes are here to stay . Thank you for all the requests and I confirm that our live and catch up classes will continue in addition to face to face. I am looking at a multitude of options - "blended" online with face to face, online only, face to face only, membership options that give you catch up's included,

The option of working online is undoubtably convenient and allows me to access those of you further afield and abroad so I will be running through all the options and will see what I can offer to give you the best possible service. It does mean that when you go away for a month at a time or find yourself babysitting or caring for a relative in another part of the country, you can maybe swap from face to face to online and so forth so you still have your weekly classes. I feel that it offers a lot of positives.

When we can, I will be returning to Beaulieu village hall and am currently looking at venues as I intend to also run classes in the Lyndhurst/Ashurst area.

Having said all that, it has been lovely to see some of you in face to face classes in gardens and while the weather allows, I am really happy to teach small groups in large gardens where the "1m plus" rule can be observed so if you wish to put your own group together then do get in touch and we can discuss times and days. Also, maybe you would like to organise your own bespoke online class with some friends. Perhaps you all went to another class that isn't running or you had a class in your office at work and are missing it. You can get a gang of friends/colleagues and I can run a class online just for you. Again, just pick up the phone and we can discuss. I really do see that we have all learned new ways of working and there are definitely some positives and some newfound convenience.

New Timetable. I have taken your reqeusts onboard and have also of course been keeping an eye on what classes seems the most popular. The Tuesday 6pm class is currently quite under subsribed so I will not be continuing this in the July block. I will never say never and if the interest is there, I will reinstate later in the year. I am adding a lunchtime "bitesize" class on Monday and Thursday so I really hope that will give an opportuntity to those of you who are working office hours. The classes will be around 35 mins MAX. to give you time to get your lunch and get back to your desk. The Monday 10.30 class has been a bit quieter so I will be making this "The back care class" with balance and mobilty. So whatever your level, the earlier time of 10am on Monday will be all about exercise and movment designed to support and rehab. grumpy backs but including balance.

After this week's introduction to "The 34 Moves", I am going to be running this as a class every Thursday for the July block.

The new timetable will go up on Friday after we have finished the last class of this week.

Payment - please make payment of £40 for the new block by no later than Friday 2nd July in order to receive the password for the new block. You can either pay online through my webiste or BACS me - Juliet's Pilates (business acct) - acc no 21505734. sortcode 40-30-36. Please be kind enough to email me if you are paying by BACS and PLEASE email me if your banking name isn't the name I know you by. On receipt of payment, I will send you the password for the new block. Please allow 24 hours for reply. £40 will give you access to 40 live classes and around 24 recorded classes on catchup for July.

Latest News. Please remember to check "Latest News" on my website for all information on the upcoming week's classes with regards to what we are doing and what we will need. I post every Friday and do my best to offer suggestions of how to substitute so please be prepared with whatever you may need by checking here. It is also an opportunity for you to see what may take your fancy and I am always happy to take requests. PLEASE also double check your class start time which is displayed on the website when you join the class. If for whatever reason, you join late, can you PLEASE check you are on mute. It is really distracting for the rest of us when you join late and we can hear your background noise - runs alongside coming into my hall late and making a big fuss of sorting your bag and your shoes and your mat and we all know how I feel about that.... so a little courtesy please!!! 20 press ups is my usual punishment...

Recorded classes. I have updated classes today. I have also found a couple of bite sized classes that I recorded about two stones ago, when I had long hair and the Late, Great Jack Russel, Panda the Pilates Wonder dog used to sit on my feet - (do you remember when we were in Moonhills and he used to join in the classes and sit on your mat!).

I have made these downloadable with no password so available to all. A taster of the short bite size classes I will be offering soon.

The library is growing so get in touch if you would like to purchase a class.

Health and Safety. Please read the disclaimer and if you have read it, please read it again. It is your responsibility to advise me of any change to your physical health and well being no matter how trivial you may consider it. I am always on the end of the phone for a chat if you would like to ask/check/query and please do always keep me up to speed on any changes to your health and physical well being that may affect your ability to exercise. There are always a multitude of ways to adapt and modify so I can usually inlcude you but will offer you props to use or alternatives.

So to wrap up.... a very slightly altered timetable which will be posted Friday afternoon, payment by Friday latest (I am not working on the weekends) and plenty of "recordeds" to keep you going. The existing class codes will carry over and I will send out the new class codes on request (Monday 10am, Monday and Thursday lunchtimes) but all the rest will remain the same but will require the new password from Monday.

Fitness Unites. As you know, I am delighted to be joining over 20 other presenters to take part in this 2 day fitness event. 25/26 July. For £15 for one day or £25 for both days, you have one code and you can dip in and out and join as many classes as you like with a huge vareity to choose from. Classes include Pilates, Yoga, Bollywood Zumba, Martial Arts, Dance, Barre, HIIT, Stretch and relax, Meditation, Kids Fitness and loads more. If you are on social media please find Fitness Unites and you can see a daily update on each presenter, their experience and what their class will be. I am teaching "Abs Fab Fusion" and really hope to see lots of you there. There really are some amazing teachers and it is a wonderful cause as every penny goes towards The Chicken Shed Theatre Group helping disadvantaged children in the community.

Please visit. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/joanna-fernandes

Recorded classes -

Thank you for your humour, energy, support and company. My lounge is now dedicated to a homemade and somewhat precarious tower made up of kitchen chair, boxes and 5 large books for my laptop to sit high up on, furniture piled into one end of the room, cleared space for my mat and the hoover on constant standby. I don't think I have ever worked so hard and I have to confess that you are not the only ones who sometimes just lie on the mat in a heap.... when I close that class, I am often to be found collapsed on my (newly purchased, colour coordinated and non slip) mat!!! But (n.b. dont start a sentence with but) we are having fun aren't we. You have all made my solitary confinement much easier than it may have been and I treasure and love each and every message from you. Feeling a little emotional as this is the second time I have written this as I lost one hour of work when I randomly hit some random key that randomly wiped all my rambling... I think Bertie learned some new words he may not normally be used to.

See you soon x

Block 3 Week 4 Jun 29 - Jul 3

Fri, 26 Jun 2020 19:25:57 GMT

Well, Friday has come round rather quickly again!! So here we are, with a plan for the next week and the final week in this block.

I will be putting all the info for the new block up next Friday but suffice to say, we will run straight into a new 4 week block, 6 July to 31 July. The arrangement will remain the same at a cost of £40 for 9 weekly classes and access to all recorded classes.

I am keeping my eye on developments with regards to rules and regs. around getting back into our hall but as yet that is not happening. I think at this stage, it is highly unlikely that I will be returning to teaching in the hall before October at the very earliest but I will of course keep you updated.

Please see info below for classes next week. Please note that just for this week only, there is only the 8am class on Thursday.

Class information for Week 4.

I will always vary which clases I record and which I am interacive with to try and give as much attention to eveyrone as I can but also to keep topping up a large selection of classes for you to access on catch up. Please always feedback and let me know how this works for you.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 3. JUNE 8 T0 JULY 3.

Monday 9am: The Magic Circle class - you can adapt with a soft ball and flexiband tied in a knot but you won't get the whole class from this. You are welcome to join and adapt of course.

Monday 10.30am: Have a block or cushion and flexiband. Angle your screen to allow you to use a wall.

Tuesday 8am : .We are going to nail THE 34 MOVES. This morning will be the first 17 exercises. No equipmement.

Tuesay 9.15am: Stretch band and small hand weights. (Pair of tights and two tins of soup work as substitutes)

Tuesday 6pm: Legs and glutes. Have your soft ball handy (or subsitute with a towel rolled up into a sausage)

Thursday 8.am: The 34 MOVES - the second half

Friday 8.30am: THE 34 MOVES - ALLLLLL the way through.

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Have your soft ball handy.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 3 Week 3 - 22- 26 June

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 18:35:48 GMT

Another week of busy classes and always so great to see you live. Thank you for your feedback and requests and I do hope I have covered everything.

Don't forget to put the weekend of 25/26 July. My lovely friend Jo Fernandes (who lots of you have already met as she and I have run some workshops together and we were running our IOW retreat together - now taking place next year) is hosting a two day fitness extravanganza with some fantastic presenters (if I do say so myself!!!). There will be a variety of Pilates, Yoga, barre, meditation, Martial Arts, Bollywood dance, HIIT, Kids fitness, Zumba and lots more. I will of course be giving you lots of info but do put it in the diary. Alll proceeds to go to Chickenshed Theatre. Please book the date, tell your friends and watch this space.

I will be getting on to Pilates15! I promise.. hopefully some next week - sorry to be so slow on this but in the meantime the online workshop I am doing on The Menopause (Greek for monthly pause, don't you know!!) and it's pre, peri and post effects on the body is taking up some time but is very interesting and will give me more to give to you!!

Monday class - I am altering this a little as it has not been as busy as I had hoped - focus still on balance, coordination and mobilty but please do not underestimate the level - suitable for all.

Have a great weekend

Class information for Week 3.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 3. JUNE 8 T0 JULY 3.

Monday 9am: The Roller class - back by popular demand!! A whole new set of exercises!!

Monday 10.30am: Have a block or cushion and flexiband.

Tuesday 8am : . Flexiband and a couple of strong freezer clips - if you have a miniloop or fitness band, have that handy

Tuesay 9.15am: Just you and your mat.

Tuesday 6pm: An Ab's blaster. Bring a hand towel (for the exercise, not to mop your brow!) and your soft ball (a firm cushion folded in half will do... ish)

Thursday 8.am: Magic circle - you can sustitute with a loop, ball, cushion....

Thursday 9.30am: Block - (a large book or cushion can sustitute) and small handweights - you can use 2 tins of beans

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class. Roller, magic circle, flexiband, small handweights and soft ball. Its a tough one but there are lots of options to vary intesity and challenge.

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Have your soft ball handy.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Block 3. Week 2. 15 - 19 June

Fri, 12 Jun 2020 13:49:17 GMT

Well, I have a busy Friday afternoon and coming week. Today I am attending an online lecture on "Loaded flexion and Rotation in older adults". This evening's treat, in place of a glass or two at the local, is a 2 hour webinar on "Osteoporosis and Scolisois to include exercise adaptation and modification" and next week, I am attending what would be a one day workshop, broken down into 2 hours per day, Mon to Fri of live, online training to gain a diploma in "Women's health and the effects of meonpause on the body and mind". Just so you know! It really is all rock and roll in my life.....

That said, I think it is important that you know that I continue to be committed to my own personal development and ongoing learning and this is something I have always taken very seriously. This industry is always moving and changing and there is so much to learn, so although I try and keep you inspired and challenged in the class, I hope you can be assured that I am also bringing to you an ever growing knowledge and understanding of the human body and all it's needs and adaptations.

I am also planning to enjoy my very welcomed, gifted 'Kylie Rosé" - it's pink, it's delicous and it's Kylie - what's not to love!! alongside a mahoosive Netflix binge over the weekend too!!! Im not that saintly!!!! Just devoured Little Fires Everywhere (Amazon prime - AMAYYZING) and currently glued to Cardinal (Ipayer - bit gruesome but who doesn't like a good crime drama?!). I don't really have much of a life so I am a good source of ideas if you are looking for the next binge set!!!

Have a great weekend ...... at least the garden won't need watering.... !

Class information for Week 2.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 3. JUNE 8 T0 JULY 3.

Monday 9am: The Roller class - get your Amazon order in quick!!

Monday 10.30am: Have a chair and try to angle your screen to allow you to use the wall and still see me. Lots of foucs on balance and coordination.

Tuesday 8am : . Just you and your mat.

Tuesay 9.15am: This week we are including appropriate work for runners. Have a block/cushion handy.

Tuesday 6pm: The Glutes class. It's going to hurt. Just sayin!

Wednesday. No classes but there are plenty of pre recordeds for you to follow - hovver over "Online Classes" on my website and "Online Videos" will drop down for you to select.

Thursday 8.am: J ust you and your mat. No equipment. All about the legs..... Some intervals in this one.

Thursday 9.30am: Block - a large book can be used and a cushion.

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class. Just you and your mat. Its a tough one but there are lots of options to vary intesity and challenge.

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class. Focus on lower back pain in this one.

Have a great weekend and see you next week.

Recorded classes for purchase

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 17:36:03 GMT

I have created a library of recorded classes available for you to purchase and keep. Each class is around 45 minutes and costs £8. On receipt of payment, I will send you the link and password and the class is yours to download and keep.

I am also in the process of creating "Pilates15" - bite sized 15 min classes that will focus on particular areas such as a Legs workout, Abs blaster or a neck and shoulder mobility class that you can fit in easily before work or at lunchtime. These will be purchasble to download and keep at a cost of £5. Watch this space.

I will be loading all the classes up onto the website but in the meantime, please see the library below. Please email me the name and number of the class you would like and pay BACS to account 21505734 s/c 40-3-36. £8 per class. I will be setting up an online payment system in the next few days but this will get us started.

Beginner Level

1. Beginner Mat.

2.Beginner Mat.

3. Beginner with soft ball

4. Beginner with soft ball

Technique classes

1. Pilates Breathing

2. The Roll Up Workshop

3. Flexiband to assist with upper body strength

4. Understanding the Abs 1.

5. Understanding the Abs and Pelvic Floor

Mixed ability - all levels except beginner

please note that all the "Just Mat" are different exercises and variations!!!!

1. Mixed abilty Just Mat

2. Mixed ablitliy Just Mat.

3. Mixed ability Just Mat

6. Mixed ability The Glutes class 1 .

Intermediate

1. Intermediate / Advanced No eqimpent

2. Intermediate Just Mat

3. Intermediate Just Mat

HIIP/Sequencing

1. Int/Adv No equipment

2. Int. Intervals with the broom handle/pole

3. Int/Adv. Sequences No equipment

Small Equipment

1. Flexiband Intermediate

2. Flexiband mixed abilty

1. Pilates and the Pole mixed ability

1. Roller, hand weights and Bertie

2. Roller mixed abilty

1. Soft ball mixed abilty

2. Soft ball mixed ability

1. Small hand weights Intermediate

1. Magic Circle mixed ability

1. Two tins of soup - intermediate

Pilates Circuits

1. Circuits - 2 x tins, small towel and pole

2. Circuits - 2 x tins, towel, toilet roll and pole

3. Int/adv - Just Mat

4. Int/adv with Rotation and Corkscrew prep

Wind down/Mobility and Stretch

1. Neck and Shoulder relax and mobility

2 Neck and Shoulder stretch and mobilty

3. Shoulder mobilty and relax

1. Hip mobility and release. Soft ball

1. Back mobitilty . Soft ball

1. Mobilty and wind down. Flexi band and block.

All classes are approx 45 mins. Each class is £8.

Block 3. Week 1. 8 - 12 June

Thu, 04 Jun 2020 18:51:59 GMT

Welcome to our 3rd block. We are into nearly 3 months of online classes and I think on the whole we are managing brilliantly. It is so lovely to see you all on screen. Don't forget to log on 15 mins or so before class so that you can check your connectivity, adjust your screen angle and have a chat. If I am not there, my mat will be along with any eqipment we will be using (if relevant)

I have triple checked my class codes against my webtsite and also asked my web expert to have a check too. There are two different areas on my website where you can click to join classes so if for some reason you are having difficutly, please try clicking on the other page. I will always have my mobile with me so if you are having problems, ring me.

PLEASE contact me by phone (what's app or ring) or (for general enquiries) email. Please avoid contacting me via Facebook or Instagram messanger as I won't check here and it just all gets a bit out of control.

I will be putting up more infomation next week about recorded classes to purchase.

Connection issues . Please remember to install the latest version of Zoom, delete temporary internet files/clear browser history and reboot your device

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 3. JUNE 8 T0 JULY 3.

Monday 9am: Magic Circle and a toilet roll

Monday 10.30am: Soft ball and a chair.

Tuesday 8am : . A broom handle, stretch band and two freezer clips.

Tuesday 9.15am: This week we are looking at golfers!! Have your stretchy band and soft ball.

Tuesday 6pm: " Master the push up" - no equipment

Wednesday. No classes but there are plenty of pre recordeds for you to follow - hovver over "Online Classes" on my website and "Online Videos" will drop down for you to select.

Thursday 8.am: J ust you and your mat. No equipment. The Abs blaster.

Thursday 9.30am: Block - a large book can be used and a cushion.

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class. Two small handweights. Magic Circle. Flexiband

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class.

We will be using the roller next week so if you want to join, you will need to order one now!

Have a great weekend and see you next week. Jx

Information on Block 3.

Tue, 02 Jun 2020 13:41:04 GMT

Thank you for your input to help me plan the new timetable. I have added a couple of early classes and a later morning class but the changes are not huge, as per feedback. I have really hmm'd and hawww'd over this and I do hope that this will be as inclusive as possible. I know that some of you are now on the school run in addition to working so I will make sure that there are plenty of recorded classes for you.

I hope that you will consider the increased price of £40 for 4 weeks to still be exceptional value. I would like to mention that during this lockdown time I have continued with my own personal career development and upskilling. I have completed a pretty massive workshop on Pilates and neurological disorders (and will be adding this to my portfolio) in addition to taking part in over 50 hours (and counting) of Masterclasses, Teacher Training classses as well as 3 half day workshops. I am currently looking at another HUGE virtual workshop on "Pilates and the effects of Menopause on the body" which will give me another specialism to add to the porfolio as well as a couple more Teacher Trainer workshops. My reason for mentioning this is to reinforce to you that I am a Level 4 Teacher and Teacher trainer (for two National Training providers) and with over 17 years of teaching experience, I continue to study and learn to be the best that I possibly can be. In addition.... to be as creative as I possilby can so that you still feel challenged and inspired - the day you feel it is "The same old, same old" I will retire. You have my word!!!

However, this takes a lot of time and energy to plan and get creative as I am seeing so many of you multiple times a week and I want it to always be fresh and interesting. I hope you will also appreciate the thinking behind my using household items to substitute Pilates equipment!! That said, it has been an opportunity for me too, as I am usually away teacher training at weekends so I rarely have the chance to attend workshops in addition to having access to Master Teachers and "Elders" (Teachers who learned under the direct tutoring of Joe Pilates) who are now online and supporting their peers out in the field so it has been a great chance for me to grow my skills too.

Equipment. I do encourage those of you who intend to continue, to purchase your own roller, magic circle, dyna/theraband soft ball and block. Even when we do return to studios etc., it makes sense to have your own "kit" to stay as safe as possible. Amazon is a good source as is Decathlon (who do their own online and delivery service). Lidl and Aldi randomly have items and if you can get them, then they are usually good quality but they go quickly - all us teachers messaging one another to shop quickly!!

Please have in your Pilates Online basket.. in addition to your Pilates equipment

Two tins of soup
A toilet roll
A large cookery book, (if you do not have a yoga block)
A broom handle
A cushion
Two freezer clips or clothes pegs

... I think that is it!!!

I will be offering an equipment class that will require the Pilates small equipment such as magic circle, roller and band but where possible, I will suggest how you can substitute where possible.

I will also offer classes where we can easily sustitute with household items to include everyone and I will have classes that are mat only.

To wrap this bit up, I am charging £40 for 36 live classes and around 24 recorded classes over 4 weeks.

DISCOUNT of £10 if you introduce a friend who subscribes!!

Connection issues . Please remember to install the latest version of Zoom, delete temporary internet files/clear browser history and reboot your device. If your screen freezes, this will be WiFi issues at your end!!! If my WiFi goes down, I will make the time up accordingly. To help, you may want to log off as many devices as you can - if someone in your house is streaming movies or gaming or you have several internet users, that will hit your WiFi speed quite a bit!!!

PLEASE CHECK THAT YOU ARE LOGGING ONTO THE CORRECT CLASS AND ON THE CORRECT DAY AND PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CLASS IS OPEN ONLY AT THE RELEVANT TIME . I will open every class around 15 mins early for you to check your connection, have a natter with anyone else onscreen if you like and check the angle of your screen. I will not always be there but you will see my mat and whatever kit we are using and often Bertie will kindly lie on the mat to welcome you so that you know you are in the right place. PLEASE SET YOUR SCREEN SO THAT I CAN SEE YOU NOT YOUR CEILING - less important when I am recording but essential when the classes are interactive.

Recorded classes to purchase and keep.

I am adding more recorded classes to my library and will be putting details on my website to help you see what is available. I will also shortly be doing some 15 min "bite size" classes for £5, also posted in the library. I will be getting onto that - these things do take time!!! The Bite Size Recordings will be along the lines of "All about the Abs", "Booty Burn", "Back Mobility", "Balance" etc.. so each will have a theme. Requests always welcome.

Payment Details.

Below is the new timetable starting from next week Monday 8th June, with clear guidelines of what equipment is needed for each class.

Please make payment of £40 either online or by BACS to account 21505734. Sort Code 40-30-36.

PLEASE email me so that I can tie up the payment especially if your payment is in a name I wouldn't necessarily recognise.

On receipt of payment, I will email you the new password - please allow 24 hours over a Mon to Fri week.

PLEASE REMEMBER TO LOOK HERE ON LATEST NEWS TO SEE WHAT IS NEEDED IN EVERY CLASS. UPDATED EVERY FRIDAY FOR THE FOLLWING WEEK.

I hope this all makes sense and as always, you know where I am if you would like to ask any questions.

What you need to do now.

Pay online or via bank transfer
Confirm your place in Juliet's Pilates Virtual Classes by emailing me, juliet@julietspilates.com .
Check the class times and equipment needed
Locate the right class at the correct time and day. Remember your subscription gives you access to as many as you like
Check your connection up to 15 mins before
Have a natter and join in the class
Tell your friends and get a £10 discount if they sign up!

Have a great rest of your week.

Tough - Intermediate/Advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

TIMETABLE FOR BLOCK 3. JUNE 8 T0 JULY 3.

Monday 9am: Mixed ability using small equipment. I will post every Friday to list what will be needed and will offer substitues where possible but this won't always be possible.

Monday 10.30am: NEW CLASS. Balance, coordination and mobility. This class will be geared to those who wish to work at a slower pace with a lot of attention on technique and precision. This class will suit those who live with M.S. or similar conditions, are recovering from a stroke or other conditon that affects motor skills and coordination as well as balance and general strength and mobilty relevant to this level. Please get in touch with questions.

Tuesday 8am : Int/Adv. Intervals, HIIP - a challenge.

Tuesday 9.15am: Mixed abilty with easier options. We will look at specialist exercieses here - week 1 will focus on exercises to help your golf swing!

Tuesday 6pm: Mixed ability with more challenging options.

Wednesday No classes - there will always be plenty of videos to access

Thursday 8.am: Int/Adv - just you and your mat. No equipment.

Thursday 9.30am: Beginner/improver. Working at a slower pace focusing on technique and establishing the fundamentals.

Friday 8.30am: The circuits class- I will post here ever Friday with details of what equipment will be needed (if any) and will mat and will suggest how to substitute so that you do not need specialist equipment.

Friday 9.30am: The mobility, stretch and wind down class.

Block 2. Week 4. 1-5 June

Fri, 29 May 2020 18:54:41 GMT

Another week gone and here we are facing another weekend of sunshine. I honestly do not know where these weeks are going. So we are not going out to clap anymore on a Thursday? Don't worry becuase it is only 31 claps until Christmas!!! We could start that one.......

So as you know, I have been saying that I will be making some changes to my timetable and my charges. I think it is fair to say that we are going to be here for quite some time yet. While other areas of life start to open, I do not anticipate being back in Beaulieu village hall before September at the earliest. I am sure that you appreciate that I have been running my classes at a vastly reduced cost but as I consider this continuing, I have to be realistic and so I shall be running the next 2 blocks of 4 weeks at £40 per block. We will have a straight run of 8 weeks which takes us to August at which time I shall reduce the rate back down and provide plenty of recorded classes as I take some time off.

DISCOUNT of £10 if you introduce a friend who subscribes!

It is my intention to make this a sustainable side of my business as I have so enjoyed seeing lovely faces who have moved away and abroad as well as this being a very convenient and time friendly way to do things. I do miss seeing you all ever so much of course but this is a very satisfactory way to bridge the gap and moving forwards, give you the option to continue in classes if you are away for whatever reason. That said, it will be wonderful to see you in person again both in Beaulieu and also, I am making equiries into Colbury village hall to cover the Lyndhurst/Ashurst area.

So I am putting the final tweaks to the amended timetable. I plan to offer 2 x 8am classes (if they need to be earlier, speak up soon), in and around the current times plus a couple of later morning classes and a lunchtime class. I will continue to put recorded classes up and keep refreshing them. The cost of £40 will allow you to continue to "access all areas" whether you are doing a class a day, taking part in catch up or a combination of the two. I am delighted that so many of you, being able to now do classes several times a week are seeing such postive results in both your strength and flexibilty.

Recorded classes to purchase and keep.

Coming up in the new block are new sequencing routines, technique classes to break down and understand specifics and in the first week a class to help improve your golf swing!!!

I will finalise the new timetable and post early next week. In the meantime, have a great weekend.

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Equipment list and details for week 18 - 22 May

Monday 9am - hand weghts (tins of beans will do)

Monday 6pm - flexiband

Tuesday 9am. Just you and your mat

Tuesday 6pm . Broomhandle

Wednesday 8am HIIP - just you , your mat and a class of high intensity intervals

Wednesday 915.am. How to find your abs, stop your neck and hip flexors jumping in and loads more!! Block to sit on and a towel

Thursday 8.30am. Just you and your mat.

Friday 8.30am - The circuits class but this week just you and your mat

Friday 9.30am - Soft ball

Block 2. Week 3. 26-29 May.

Fri, 22 May 2020 19:50:01 GMT

Please note that this Monday is a bank holiday and there are no classes. I have put up extra videos though.

Please check your spam/junk as my mailings may drop in there but all updates will always be here anyway.

I have had requests for some "lunchbreak" videos of 15 mins so I shall get onto that next week and add to library for purchase at a cost of £5. If you have any special requests, please let me know.

Have a great weekend and see you on Tuesday.

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Equipment list and details for week 18 - 22 May

Monday No classes

Tuesday 9am. The roller class

Tuesday 6pm . Just you and your mat.

Wednesday 8am HIIP - just you , your mat and a class of high intensity intervals

Wednesday 915.am. HOW TO MASTER THE ROLLUP!!! One not to be missed! All levels - have a towel and soft ball/cushion and flexi band (dressing gown cord will do)

Thursday 8.30am. Flexi band.

Friday 8.30am - The circuits class but this week just you and your mat

Friday 9.30am - Block/cushion and a flexband

Recorded classes available for purchase

Tue, 19 May 2020 10:57:42 GMT

I have started to compile a library and will be adding to it constantly. Recorded classes will be aroud 45 mins are available for you to access and keep at a cost of £8 per recording. In the first instance, please email me juliet@julietspilates.com with the recordings you want. Please then make payment via BACS to Acc 21505734 s/c 40-30-36 and on receipt of payment I will provide you with the access password. I will be adding to the library constantly so Beginner 1 will be different from Beginner 2 and so on. I will also take requests so if you don't see what you want, let me know!!! Please allow me a 24 hour turnaround time Mon to Fri to process requests.

Beginner class 1.

Flexi band for resistance and strenghtening.

Breathing - the technique class

Hip mobility 1.

Back care class 1.

Roller and handweights.

Magic Circle mixed ability 1.

Soft ball 1.

Week 2, Block 2. 18-22 May.

Sat, 16 May 2020 15:38:33 GMT

Connections and start times.... I think that all technicial glitches are now sorted. If you are still having problems, please check that firstly you are on the right class on the right day!! You may well benefit from a computer spring clean so clear browser history and reboot your device.

I am going to use the waiting room from time to time to help with log in security so please be prompt as once we are started in the class, I can't then let you in. I will always have the class open 10 mins early to allow you time to check your connection etc and I will have my phone so you can ring/text if you have still having connection problems. Please don't facebook message or email as once the class is open I wont be looking here. (Wed and Fri second classes do sometimes open with less prep. time if I am running over a little from the previous class. Sorry about that!)

Videos - I will be making the final tweaks to my videos for you to purhcase and will be adding a page to my webiste for this. Recorded classes will be £8 for you to purchase. I will post under Latest News here when recordings are ready and provide info on how to purchaes. Please let me know if you have any specific requirements and I can record a class accordingly.

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Equipment list and details for week 18 - 22 May

Monday 9am - a broom handle

Monday 6pm - soft ball

Tuesday 9am. Flexi band

Tuesday 6pm . 2 tins of beans/soup - please make sure the tins are the same size and weight.

Wednesday 8am Its going to be a killer ABS set - just you and your mat.

Wednesday 915.am. a broom handle

Thursday 8.30am. A Killer glutes (booty) class - you need a toilet roll (no, no...not for that!)

Friday 8.30am - Magic circle, soft ball, broom handle, 2 tins of soup

Friday 9.30am - Block/cushion and a flexband

Log in issues, new block and a few bits and pieces

Thu, 14 May 2020 09:41:58 GMT

NEW BLOCK

Dear all - we are now into our second block of 4 weeks - can you believe it!!! Some of you have been with. me right from the start and we are heading towards the end of our 8th week online!! so if you haven't yet subscribed please go to online payments on my website or drop me an email and for all up to date info, please visit Latest News where I will post all updates and info.

Sincere apologies for log in problems today. I have absolutely no idea what is going on and will be looking into it today and hopefully have everything sorted for tomorrow. If you had not realised that we have moved into a new block (with a new password) then that might be the problem for some but I do know several of you were trying the new password so I have no idea. Sorry for your inconvenience and I am "on it". I may enable a waiting room so if you log in and are sitting there "waiting for host" don't worry - I will let you in (provided you are subscribed!!).

Please do upgrade Zoom as per info - go into your account and follow instructions and if you are not sure, please get in touch.

VIDEOS

For those of you who are subscribing to my classes, you also have access to videos that I upload weekly and change regularly. I have had several requests to purchase these videos so I am now working on a small library for you to choose from and will also take requests. Videos will be £8 and will be available via You Tube in the next few days so if there was a particular class you liked, you can purchase and keep.

Next week's class info will be going up under Latest News on my website so that you can be best prepared. For small weights you can use 2 x tins of soup, for a flexi band you can use a pair of tights (thick/woolly!!), for a soft ball you can use a football or cushion (but really, buying a ball for around £5 would be best) but I will also help you to use household equipment... next week I will be repeating the toilet roll class!! I will also have "Just you and your mat" classes too.

Thank you too!!

As you know, I ran the first 3 weeks (21 consecutive days) for free and am now offering classes for £20 for 4 weeks which gives you 9 live classes and access to 6/8 videos weekly.

I still have the same knowledge, skill and nearly 20 years' worth of experience and indeed, have been upskilling and adding to my qualifications during lockdown and have done 2 full day workshops (Pilates and exercise for neurological disorders, Classic exercises and modification) as well as 9 webinar training sessions and scores of master classes with some international presenters (a wonderful opportunity that only came about purely because of lockdown) so I continue to be the best that I can be. I am a level 4 teacher and also a Pilates teacher trainer (still having to do mind numbingly dull standardisation meetings to keep that side of my skills current!) and unlike some of the large online services, I am right here on the end of the phone, responding to emails and available for requests and support so currently I am offering you access to all this knowledge and personal interaction for around 50p per class not including the classes available to you on catch up!!

I cannot promise to keep the subscription at this price forever but while it is, do take advantage, support me to support you and let me know what you would like to see in your classes.

Having said all that, as someone living alone in lockdown (with Bertie) it has been truly uplifting and joyful to see so many of you in my classes and to chat every weekday with you all. I have been really touched by so many wonderful messages, deliveries and thank you's and I really appreciate you taking the time to contact me and thank me but I also would like to thank YOU for supporting me and for being in my lounge chatting to me every weekday and making me smile, keeping me company and supporting me. I honestly don't know what I would have done without you all. I am delighted to see so many new faces and to be zooming into a variety of counties and countries which just shows what we can do when we put our minds to it.

THANKYOU xxx

See you on screen soon!

Juliet x

Not a massive change but it got your attention!!!

Thank you to all who gave feedback and it seems that with the tiniest tweak or two, we will largely remain the same.

Monday 9am - small equipment mixed ability and 6pm - beginner and back care

Tuesday 9am mixed abiltiy and 6pm mixed ability with harder options

Wednesday 8.am intermediate/advanced and 9.15am Beginner/back care

Thursday 8.30am - mixed abiltiy - only one class today

Friday 8.30 am The cicuits class and 9.30 - relax and wind down for the weekend .

PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE NO CLASSES ON FRIDAY 8TH MAY AND MONDAY 11TH MAY.

Please remember to check Latest News every week for upates on classes and equipment.

New Block Tues 12 May to Fri 5 June

Mon, 04 May 2020 15:02:58 GMT

Not a massive change but it got your attention!!!

Thank you to all who gave feedback and it seems that with the tiniest tweak or two, we will largely remain the same.

Monday 9am - small equipment mixed ability and 6pm - beginner and back care

Tuesday 9am mixed abiltiy and 6pm mixed ability with harder options

Wednesday 8.am intermediate/advanced and 9.15am Beginner/back care

Thursday 8.30am - mixed abiltiy - only one class today

Friday 8.30 am The cicuits class and 9.30 - relax and wind down for the weekend .

PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE NO CLASSES ON FRIDAY 8TH MAY AND MONDAY 11TH MAY.

Please remember to check Latest News every week for upates on classes and equipment.

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Equipment list and details for week Tues 11 - Fri 15 May

Tuesday 9am. Soft ball

Tuesday 6pm . Just you and your mat

Wednesday 8am Magic circle

Wednesday 915.am. A flexi band and soft ball

Thursday 8.30am. Soft ball and two hand weights - tins of soup will do

Friday 8.30am - just you and your mat

Friday 9.30am - soft ball and a block/cushion

Class info 4 - 8 May .

Fri, 01 May 2020 17:44:00 GMT

Thank you all for another really busy week of classes. It is lovely to see you and have a chat and I know those of you who cannot make the live classes are catching up on videos. Today's classes are uploading as I type this.

We have one more week of this block and listening to the news updates, I think it is safe to say that we will move straight into a new virtual block starting Monday 11th. I will continue to offer you the discounted rate of £20 for 4 weeks but I do ask please that each person in the household pays for their place just as you would in a traditional class. I hope you will appreciate that I am putting in a huge amount of effort to keep the classes varied and interesting and am keeping costs very low to reflect the situation we all find ourselves in. Please may I ask for payment for the new block by Friday 8th May. On receipt of payment I will send over the new class code. If you pay by BACS and/or you pay under a different name, please can you email me so I can look out for it.

Thank you for your requests and I have updated next week's classes accordingly.

As so many of you are working or home schooling, I would like to propose a slight change to the timetable to help you fit in around office and school hours. This is a PROPOSAL and I welcome your comments.

Monday 8am (was 9am) and 6pm

Tuesday 7.45am (was 8.30) and 7pm

Wednesday 7.45 (was 8.30) and 9am (was 9.30)

Thursday 7.45 (was 8.30) and 9am (was 9.30)

Friday 8am (was 8.30) and 9.15 (was 9.30)

Calling all runners.... on Monday at 7.30pm I am running a FREE sports specific class Pilates for Runners. This is a stand alone class and you will need to email me for the zoom code.

Please see below, next week's timetable and what you need.

Have a great weekend and I look forward to your feedabck but dont expect a reply until Monday as this laptop is closing for now!!

Juliet x

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Monday 9am. Magic Circle

Monday 6pm. Flexiband and some small weights - tins of soup

Tuesday 9am. Soft ball

Tuesday 6pm . Just you and your mat

0Wednesday 8.30 Just you and your mat.

Wednesday 9.30am. A flexi band

Thursday 8.30am. Roller and small weights

Thursday 9.30am Just you and your mat.

Friday - No classess - I am taking a day off

Facebook live and extra class this evening and one or two other things...

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 19:04:55 GMT

Please read the below from Kate at Highball drinks!

Don’t forget to join Juliet's Pilates ‘Prosecco & Pilates’ class on Facebook Live this evening from 7pm. Instead of Prosecco the wonderful Juliet will be using our delicious alcohol-free cocktails. It’ll be a fab way to look after your body and help clear your mind during lockdown.

We will be offering anyone who joins in this class 25% off their first order. All you need to do is go to our website highballcocktails.com and use the code HIGHBALLFIT to order. ��‍♀️

I will see you on FACEBOOK this evening at 7pm for a workout with a twist followed immedatiely by...

7.30 on Zoom for an abs and glutes workout - please email me for the code if you do not yet have it - this class is an exra and is not on usual timetable. You need a mat and a toilet roll!!

Wednesday - the class will remain at 8.30am - I will leave everything "as is" for the remainder of this block.

Mondays 4 and 11 May - I will be running a "Pilates for runners" free class at 7.30pm. Please email for the zoom code.

New videos are uploading on my website as I type.

Many thanks

Juliet x

Tough - intermed/advanced Mixed ability Beginner and all levels

Monday 9am. Just you and your mat.

Monday 6pm. Just you and your mat (and a block/cushion)

Tuesday 9am. Flexiband - a dressing gown cord or pair of tights if you dont have a band.

Tuesday 7.30 . Please have a toilet roll.

Wednesday 8.15 You will need 2 tins. Soup/beans/chickpeas... as long as they are the same size and weight.

Wednesday 9.30am. A band or similar and a soft ball if poss .

Thursday 8.30am. The Magic Circle class.

Thursday 9.30am Just you and your mat.

Friday 8.30 - The Circuits class. Toilet roll, 2 x tins of beans, a towel and a broom handle.

Friday 9.30. Mat, cushion and a quiet space to work in.

20 - 24 April class info

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 09:38:06 GMT

Every week I will post here to let you know what equipment will be required for each class to help you be best prepared and find the class most suitable for you. Please see my earlier post on what to buy and where to buy it (if necessary) and how to adapt by using other items in your home. Please always have your mat and block or a cushion and a small towel to roll up.

Monday 9am. You will need hand weights and your roller.

Monday 6pm. Please have your soft ball (a pillow folded in half will do)

Tuesday 9am. Please have a chair and soft ball (or pillow as mentioned above) - if you are on a carpet, you may want to use a large chopping board or similar to give you a firm surface.

Tuesday 6pm. Please have 2 large hand or 2 standard bath towels in addition to the usual mat etc.

Wednesday 8.30 Please have your flexi band and a freezer clip or similar to make the band into a loop

Wednesday 9.30am. Please have a chair and a soft ball (or pillow)

Thursday 8.30am. Hand weights (tins of soup/plastic water bottles filled)

Friday 8.30 - Everything and more. Please have.... flexi band, weights, magic circle, roller and plenty of space.

Friday 9.30. Mat, cushion and a quiet space to work in.

Online class information - a guide to the class descriptions

Sat, 11 Apr 2020 01:20:58 GMT

A guide to the classes.

Monday 9am. Small equipment. We will alternate between all the different pieces of equipment as listed below . I will suggest in each class what we will use the following week. Mixed ability.

6pm. Beginner class. Suitable for those who are new to Pilates or who want to practise the basics.

Tuesday 9am. Mixed ability/improvers. Offering mixed ability but with the emphasis on a slower class with less challenging levels.

6pm. Mixed ability/intermediate so offering adaptations but geared more to the improver level who already understand the basics.

Wednesday 8.30 Intermediate/advanced with higher intensity options. The one where you can expect to sweat. Sequencing and some faster paced work.

9.30 The technique class. Suitable for all levels to study the basics and fundamentals of Pilates.

Thursday 8.30am HIIP - high intensity - to include a mixup of High Intensity Interval Pilates, barre and faster paced sequencing.

9.30 Mixed ability mat class.

Friday 8.30 Small equipment intermediate. We will use most of the equipment in a circuits type class. A real mix up of exercises that will suit most levels.

9.30 Deep stretch and relax - all levels - wind down for the weekend.

For small equipment classes we will be working from a choice of hand weights, soft ball, magic circle, roller, dynabnad and broom handle so you will need to have these pieces of equipment in order to participate. I wil give you an idea the week before of what you will need in the follwing class.

For all classes I ask you to have a block ( a firm cushion will do) and a rolled up towel.

You are invited to a party this Friday ...

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 14:45:17 GMT

This Friday, 10th April, at 6 pm you are invited to join my live and interactive Zoom disco party!! Let’s see how big we can make it!!!

Click here to join

A celebration of 21 days of non stop, free classes, birthdays, anniversaries, Easter and connecting with friends

WEAR A HAT - any hat will do!!!!

The theme is Mamma Mia and you are invited to dress up, bring your family, your dog (or cat) along, and let’s just have a party to celebrate completing 21 consecutive days of free, online Pilates classes and also my birthday on Saturday, Easter weekend and lots of other April birthdays!!

"Techy bit"

DOWNLOAD

Before the day, please download zoom onto your laptop/tablet/phone. You do not need to go into the program, set up a meeting or anything else, just have the program downloaded.

CLICK THE LINK

On or around 6 pm on Friday 10th April, click the link in pink in the box above which will take you into our party. Please look at the bottom left of your screen and “start video” which means that you can be seen on screen and “unmute” which means you can be heard and in the top right of your screen. If you click gallery view, you will be able to see other people.

VOLUME UP

Turn your volume up loud or add speakers.

GO LARGE

If you have a smart tv, you can screen share to put your screen onto your tv to see more clearly (swipe up on an iPhone to see “mirroring screen) or click on the square with the arrow pointing up in the top left of your computer screen and click on find tv - if the broadband in your home is getting a battering, this may not connect.

BE SOCIAL

If you click on chat you can type a message to all.

MUTE OPTIONS

If you wish to join in but not be heard, you can click on mute.

TUNES

The music will be played by me. It’s my party after all!

If you have an April birthday in the house, please let me know.

Let’s just have some proper levity in the living room, forget the “C” word and have a party. Open to all so please spread the word and pass the invite code on.

At 7pm you can then join Helen McGinn, aka Knackered Mother for “the big English wine Good Friday” - details on her web/insta

See you Friday and hope you are going to dance “like you just dont care……”

Juliet xx

A suggestion of what to buy and where to buy it from

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 11:08:26 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. A suggestion of what to buy and where to buy it. While I don't want you to have to spend too much, these pieces are pretty budget friendly and will be something you can bring to class when we return to the hall.

Click here to join

Day 15 of 21. Juliet's Pilates online.

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 10:54:15 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. The one that was supposed to be about a good Ab's workout but really was all about Bertie the Magnificent being a total clown.

Click here to join

Juliet's Pilates online. All you need to (currently) know

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 16:51:59 GMT

Juliet's Pilates online.

I have now got everything interactive and I hope, easy to navigate. From now you can access classes via my webiste, www.julietspilates.com. From here you will easily find my online classes timetable and you can now, with a few clicks, access my live classes. I suggest you access the class a few minutes early incase of any glitches. I wil be online around 15 mins before each class to be available for any connection queries. If you do have connection issues, please ring me on 0773 6359062 rather than emailing me as once I have opened the class, I won't be looking at emails.

So to clarify - you do not now need to email me to register interest and request codes but instead visit my website and book yourself onto the classes of your choice.

As you know, all classes are currently FREE and you are invited to access as many classes as you choose. Every class will be videod and shared online for 7 days for you to practise before your next class. If for any reason you are not able or willing to access the live classes, you can still access the videos to allow you to practise at home. Currently I am offering a scaled down timetable but after Easter I will be impletmenting an online payment system and will be offering a fuller timetable.

All my Facebook Live videos are also available to you under the (newly amended) title of "Latest News".

We are all learning new technological skills and if you would like help with understanding Zoom, please let me know as I have some excellent "You Tube" training videos to share with you.

Please share the classes with your famiy and friends. It has been wonderful to reconnect with clients who have moved away and abroad and to enable relatives and friends to work out in the same class but from different parts of the globe.

Please get in touch with any queries and I really look forward to seeing you all very soon.

Juliet x

Day 10 of 21. Juliet's Pilates online.

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 13:13:30 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. The one about mobility and movmetnt for horseriders and where I find another app to amuse me... hence the pony on my mat!

Click here to join

Day 8 of 21. Juliet's Pilates online.

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 11:30:26 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. The one about pooches and Pilates. Bring your dog to class day. A little contribution from Bertie.

Click here to join

Day 7 of 21. Juliet's Pilates online.

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 22:37:01 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. The one with a broom handle, lots of upper body work and an 8pm date to applaud the NHS angels

Click here to join

Juliet's Pilates Online Timetable. March 23 - April 10

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 19:05:32 GMT

Class timetable from Monday 23 March to Friday 10 April.

All classes for this timetable are free of charge.

Please have a mat and a block or a towel and cushion available for all classes.

Disclaimer on receipt of email request. You are required to agree to all terms and conditions before clicking on link to class.

Mondays

10.30am Facebook live - video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

6pm. Live interactive class via Zoom. Level - Beginner. Please email to request invite by email or whats app - (mobile needed for whats app add on). Open to all.

Tuesdays

9am - closed class via Zoom - invitation will be emailed to existing subscribers.

5pm - closed class via Zoom - invitation will be emailed to existing subscribers.

7pm - Facebook live. Video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

Wednesdays

9am. Fitness Pilates. This is a more challenging class working at a highter intensity. Open to all. Level - challenging. Please email to request invite by email or whats app - (mobile needed for whats app add on)

10.30. Facebook live. Video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

Thursdays.

9am. closed class via Zoom - invitation will be emailed to existing subscribers.

10.30 Live interactive class via Zoom. Traditional Pilates at intermediat/improver level. Open to all. Level - intermediate/mid challenging Please email to request invite by email or whats app - (mobile needed for whats app add on).

7pm. Facebook live. Video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com.

Fridays.

8am. closed class via Zoom - invitation will be emailed to existing subscribers.

9.30am. 45 min Live interactive class via Zoom. Mat based Pilates. Level - challenging Please email to request invite by email or whats app - (mobile needed for whats app add on). Open to all

10.30am Facebook live. Video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

Saturdays

10.30am Facebook live - video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

Sundays

10.30am Facebook live - video content available on catch up at Juliets Pilates FB videos or under news on Julietspilates.com

Juliet's Pilates Online. An introduction to using Zoom for live, interactive classes, where to find classes from Facebook and how to sign up

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 16:44:56 GMT

A video introduction to me, accessing my live Facebook classes, subscribing to my live, interactive classes, using Zoom and hopefully making some sense of it all.

Click here to join

Juliet's Pilates online. Disclaimer for all online classes.

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 18:21:15 GMT

Bringing Levity into your Living Room!

I really look forward to meeting as many of you online as possible. However I do need you to please read the information below to help you exercise safely.

Juliets Pilates online. March 2020

Disclaimer:

The classes provided by Juliets Pilates are for educational and entertainment purposes only, and are not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific treatment plan or course of action.

Exercise is not without risks and this or any other exercise programme may result in injury. They include but are not limited to: risk of injury, aggravation of a pre-existing condition, or adverse effect of over-exertion such as muscle strain, abnormal blood pressure, fainting, disorders of heart beat, and very rare instances of heart attack. To reduce the risk of injury, before beginning this or any exercise programme, please consult a healthcare provider for appropriate exercise prescription and safety precautions. The exercise instruction and advice presented in the classes are in no way intended as a substitute for medical consultation. Juliets Pilates disclaims any liability from and in connection with the classes.

As with any exercise programme, if at any point during the class you begin to feel faint, dizzy or have any physical discomfort, you should stop immediately and seek medical advice.

Please take note of the following precautions before taking the class:

To reduce and avoid injury, you will want to check with your doctor before beginning the classes. By participating in the classes you are doing so at your own risk. Juliets Pilates will not be responsible or liable for any injury or harm you sustain as a result of our Pilates programmes.

Please use good judgement and common sense when taking the class, consider your level and ability and choose the appropriate level of the exercises and rest when you need to.

Please ensure you are in a clear space with no obvious hazards, with ventilation, appropriate lighting and access to water.

By clicking on the link to the class or joining Facebook Live, you confirm to abide by the terms of this disclaimer. All live and recorded content is the property of Juliets Pilates and is not to be shared with third parties.

Day 1 0f 21. Juliet's Pilates online

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 17:34:29 GMT

Levity in the Living Room. The stretchy, relaxy, end of the week one.

After a crazy week, I thought we should start with a wind down and to finish, just..... breathe....

Click to Join the class

Free taster sessions on Facebook

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 19:14:08 GMT

Bringing Levity into your Living Room!

Times are changing, as is the way we are working. To help us all adapt I am offering free online Facebook Live taster sessions to keep you mobile and active whilst at the home.

The sessions will involve a range of Pilates moves and will last approx 10 - 15 mins.

We will mostly be using things you have in the home. Things I suggest you have on standby.

- Mat

- Dyna band

- A block, or a cushion

- A wall

- Possibly a chair

- Two items you can use as weights (tins, toilet rolls - nothing too heavy)

- Boom handle (!)

We will run for 21 days (maybe longer if you are nice to me) as follows:

- Friday 20 March @ 1600 - have a mat, space, water and a cushion.

- Saturday to Thursday @ 1030

So let's meet, do some exercise and interact - Tune in here

(disclaimer - please watch my video from 19th March at 1900 here )

Hi everyone and welcome to my new blog

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 07:31:20 GMT

The one about the Juicy Oasis retreat

Well, I am off this Saturday for my first stint as fitness instructor out at Jason Vale’s beautiful juicing retreat in Portugal. I am very excited, rather nervous and probably overthinking my prep. as is my way. I’ll do my best to have a blast… looks utter hardship right? I will just clear up some misconceptions though… yes, I will be living exclusively on juice for 3 weeks (apart from salad on the handover days and I speak from experience when I tell you that it will be the most delicious meal ever!), no I will not be eating (please see previous sentence) and no, of course I wont be drinking!!!

The one about Nordic walking and getting into the Christmas spirit…

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 07:26:02 GMT

I spent last weekend in Crystal Palace sports centre learning how to walk. I have to admit, I was not massively excited about giving up a whole weekend of my (currently) very busy life and sitting on the train at 6.10am on Saturday (slightly hungover) did not see me in my best mood. However… as is so often the way, I ended up really enjoying the weekend, feeling thoroughly inspired and absolutely shattered! A hundred years ago, I went along to day one of my Pilates course feeling exactly the same way -really not that enamoured with the prospect of learning Pilates and look where that took me!!

As you know, I am off to teach fitness at Jason Vale’s retreats next year and this was a qualification they required so they duly dispatched me off to get the necessary. I made new friends (of course!!), learned a new skill and had an exceptionally good work out. So yes, I will be offering Nordic walking in the new year… not sure where it will fit in but it will. I was really impressed at how hard I worked and what a great c.v.workout it was. In the classroom I was sat next to an ultra marathon runner and I must admit, talking to him got me thinking.

I am getting restless feet to run again… apparently there is an ultra right here in Brockenhurst next October…. just wondering if I am brave enough to start again. At least if I start running, it might take care of some of the excess energy I have which can only be very good news for everyone who suffers in my classes!

I have two sets of walking poles and will be spotted out and about practising my skills. The best bit is that my instructor advised using a whistle. I am SO using a whistle. I asked if I could use a loud hailer but the instructor felt that would be a little excessive.. #disappointed!

So, I have been tearing my hair out somewhat with regards to class cover for next term and think I am finally there for the new term. Dates will be going out very soon. I am having a minor op in the first week of Jan that requires some recovery and then I am in Portugal for 3 weeks in Feb at Juicy Oasis (http://www.juicyoasis.com) where I shall be teaching the afore mentioned Nordic walking along with all sorts of other exercises classes.

In the meantime, it is officially Christmas season – there is no stopping me now. Fairy lights are up and really bad music is playing. I actually found Silent Night at 140bpm this morning and yes, it is really bad. I have decided to change the format a little and we are doing Pilates circuits and so far, so good apart from Panda getting a little over involved!

The one about Healthy Habits… our upcoming January workshop

Tue, 11 Jul 2017 23:00:00 GMT

Are you looking to start the new year with a bang?

Want to improve your health, maybe lose a bit of weight, get back on track after the excesses of Christmas?

Possibly all of the above?!

So why not get your year off to a flying start come & join us for some new year fun at our next workshop….

“HEALTHY HABITS”

Thursday 26th January

6.30-9pm

Country Education Trust, Treehouse 1

Beaulieu

£25

The evening will start with me offering a full 60 minute class to mix up cardio and toning. The focus will be on “HIIT” (the current buzz word which means high intensity interval training.) This will be a mix of taking your heart rate high to improve cardio vascular fitness and get that fat burning off followed by slower, toning and strengthening work to allow the heart rate to slow and recover before repeating. This will be built around equipment that can be found in the home. You all know I love using small water bottles as hand weights and I will be showing you how to have a full workout without the need for a fully equipped gym. The class will be followed up with a session plan of clear and concise notes on the exercises that we have done, how to modify and most importantly, how to progress and improve.

Phew, that’s the way to start the new year!

Antonia will then show you how to introduce healthy habits into your life with ease & make them stick for good….

No fad dieting required!

Here’s what will be included

top 5 go to healthy snack recipes, that are quick, easy & perfect for those of us time pressed & on the run.

5 steps to setting realistic health goals, how to reach them with ease & make them stick for good.

Some delicious healthy snack tasters to try

All the recipes & notes sent straight to your inbox

And of course there will be a few nibbles to try along the way, plenty of laughs & time for Q&A with both of us at the end.

If you would like to join us please contact Juliet at juliet@julietspilates.com to book your spot.

Places are limited so be quick!

Your place will be reserved once payment has been received & we’ll then send you all the details including directions.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

Juliuet and Antonia

The one about the Juicy Oasis retreat

Tue, 31 Jan 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Anywayyyyy, I shall be in regular contact and plan on doing Facebook live so you cannot escape me but in the meantime, I wanted to share this documentary with you. I have watched this many times and hope it shows you why I am inspired and enthused and such a fan of the juicy method. I would love to hear your comments if and when you have watched it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aaxa7rxEbyk

The one about the workshops reminder and roadworks…

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 00:00:00 GMT

This is a really quick “touching base” post to remind you that Antonia and I still have a few spaces on our Treetops workshop which is coming up soon – Wed Nov 23 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Please email me for more info. 4 Weeks to Fabulous! Whats not to love?

Those of you coming to my studio – As you may know, Palace Lane in Beaulieu is currently closed but if you continue on and take the Ipley cross roads route, it is only another 10 mins to your journey.

Believe it or not, we only have 4 weeks left of this term before we break up for Christmas so please do try and catch up on classes you have missed. I will continue to send out ad hoc places where I can.

Im still bonkers busy – Im off to London again this weekend to do another barre course with my good Pilates buddies Tali and Jo which will be really fun (and very, very hard work) and next weekend sees me in London again for a weekend course to qualify to teach Nordic Walking which I will be using when I start teaching at Jason Vale’s retreats next year. I now have all my dates and am so excited and am currently sourcing superb cover for my classes back here in my absence. More of that later.

That’s all for now and hope to see you all this week in my classes

Ohso

The Zanzibar Yoga Festival

Sitting in Southampton airport and other stuff

Why runners need to lift weights

But what are the 34 moves?

We have been breaking them down, building them up... but do you want to know more?

The order matters

Bringing it to our mats

Week 3. 2026.

In like a lamb, out like a lion....

Week 1. 2026. Happy NEW year or just happy year?

Well, we did it! We knocked 2025 out of the park....

Week 52. Goodbye 2025

Well, we did it! We knocked 2025 out of the park....

Week 51. Weddings, Christmas and Pyjamas.

Weddings, pyjamas classes and working out with concrete weights

Weekly Wrap up. Week 48. Rugby, Red ribbons and my wonderful clients!

First things first. A HUGE thank you to YOU

Weekly Wrap up. Week 47. Women of a certain age

Why "women of a certain age" must be cancelled

Weekly Wrap up. Week 46. One body, one system.

Why we can't spot train: Why Pilates shouldn't just fix that one thing

Merchandise!

Christmas T shirts and Christmas cards.

2024 design.

2025 design - Please see only text, not surrounding stars. (Try singing to "The 12 days of Christmas" and I think a rendition at our Christmas lunch would be delightful!!!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 45. Time for hibernation.

Maybe the hedgehogs have the right idea!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 44. Ghost walks

Surrendering to what we have no control over!

Weekly Wrap up, Week 43. Is Pilates easy?

If you think Pilates is easy, read on...

Weekly Wrap up, Week 42. Life is about balance

There is no time in life to start falling over....

Weekly Wrap up, Week 41. SITTING KILLS

KEEEEEEEEP moving...

Weekly Wrap up, Week 40. What weights do I need? What are reps? A few questions answered

Weights, strength training and some explanations.

Weekly Wrap up, Week 39

Running late but here at last!

Weekly Wrap up, Week 38.

Charging cows, Flower farms and wedding Pilates

Weekly Wrap up, Week 37.

Weights, IOW day, Ghosts, library changes and more

Weekly Wrap up, Week 36

Beginner's guide to lifting weights, September reset and being mugged by God in a hoodie

Weekly Wrap up, Week 35.

Carfest, My new BFF Rev Coles, Sir Chris Hoy and migraines.

Weekly wrap up. Week 34. 2025.

Happy 2 years alcohol free to me today! and how to lose that weight!

Weekly wrap up. Week 33. 2025.

National Relaxation Day!

Weekly wrap up. Week 32. 2025.

Hello August

Weekly wrap up. Week 31. 2025.

Goodbye July - you have been great!

We have a busy month of classes coming up and I really look forward to seeing you soon. I am back on my mat as usual from this morning. ﻿

Weekly wrap up. Week 30. 2025.

The world is out there!

What is coming up.

Weekly wrap up. Week 29. 2025.

Centering

What is coming up.

Weekly wrap up. Week 28. 2025.

Athens, training and here comes July!

What is coming up.

Weekly wrap up. Week 27. 2025.

Tour de France, Wimbledon and do men do Pilates?

What is coming up.

Weekly wrap up. Week 26. 2025.

Why do YOU do Pilates?

What is coming up.

Weekly wrap up. Week 25. 2025

Our Summer Solstice

Weekly wrap up. Week 24. 2025

The unlikely comparison between Battersea Power Station and Pilates!

Weekly Wrap up. Week 23. 2025. Reformer training.

What is happening to Pilates? Is it in danger of getting lost in the rush?

Weekly Wrap up. Week 22. 2025

A busman's holiday

We have a busy month of classes coming up and I really look forward to seeing you soon. I am back on my mat as usual from this morning.