I love practising pilates and think it is so underrated (a bit like walking) as the exercises are so effective. I discovered Pilates after the birth of my first child around 18yrs ago as I wanted "to get my tummy back". I was consistent and it worked.

I have such a strong core these days (my sister jests that it is a "core of steel"!) which I solely put down to regular practise of pilates.

So I thought that I would focus on Pilates this week with a little Q&A dealing with the questions I frequently get asked:

What is Pilates?

It is a form of mat based exercise (so low impact on joints) which concentrates on strengthening the body with an emphasis on core strength. This helps to improve general fitness and overall well-being. Similar to Yoga, Pilates concentrates on posture, balance and flexibility.

Pilates also focuses on the mind-body connection. While doing the various exercises your mind needs to be constantly aware of your breathing and the way your body moves.

Pilates moves are cleverly designed to ensure that each one works the whole body (though the focus maybe on a particular area).

Can anyone do it?

Mostly yes! Pilates can be modified to provide either gentle movement, a strength training programme or a challenging workout, most people would have no problem with this form of exercise. It is suitable both for beginners who've not exercised and can enhance and support those who exercise at a high level. This is particularly important because as we age, we need to look after our joint mobility and flexibility.

There are very few conditions which may prevent you from doing pilates so please do get in touch if you are not sure. Do not let any weight gain that may have crept on during midlife prevent you from trying it. It is absolutely the right form of exercise for this.

My group classes are full body workouts but I also work with women on a one to one basis preparing a progressive programme (which can include weights and/or ball and/or bands) to work to their own tailored goals.

What are the Health Benefits ?

This is an important question!

As Pilates focuses on core strength, posture and flexibility the health benefits include:

• Good posture - Pilates will teach you to gain and maintain good posture. The exercises require that your body is always in alignment. This is especially beneficial if you suffer from lower back pain.
• Muscle Tone - The exercises involve the use of muscles that you may not use on a daily basis including deep and smaller muscles. With regular (and the word regular here is key - you need to be consistent) your muscles will be much more toned. This is especially important if you have a sedentary job sat at a desk or if you are older as muscle tone is usually lost with age and inactivity. It is particularly important for midlife women and beyond as it helps build bone density reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It also helps with your pelvic muscle tone which can weaken through peri menopause and menopause.
• Flexibility - As we age we tend to lose the flexibility we had when we were young. Pilates will restore your flexibility, gently at first of course. After a while though, you'll be amazed at how much more flexible your body has become. This is especially important for avoiding injuries from falls.
• Improves your balance - Through the mind-body connection which is taught in Pilates you will become much more aware of how your body moves and performs. Therefore Pilates not only improves your physical balance through correct posture but will also restore your mind-body balance.
• Reduces stress and improves your well-being - When doing the exercises, you'll be engaged thinking about the exercise - almost like a moving meditation You'll be more focused on your breathing and on the moves that you are making with your body. This is an excellent way to relieve stress and improve your well being.

Will it help me to lose weight?

I get asked this - a lot!

Because Pilates is a muscle strengthening form of exercise it can help you to trim and tone certain areas of your body especially your arms, stomach, legs and buttocks.

Bear in mind though that Pilates is not classed as an aerobic exercise, so for effective weight loss you need to combine your Pilates exercises with healthy nutrition and some regular aerobic activity such as walking, running, swimming or cycling.

I provide nutrition guidance to the ladies I work with 121. It is an important part of a plan and healthy lifestyle.

Do let me know if you have any questions. Always happy to talk Pilates!!!