In case you're thinking about how to get fitter - I've been trying Power Pilates! You can currently try 2 classes for £20 with the Power Pilates UK introductory offer.
SOMETHING HAD TO BE DONE
I hadn't exercised for about 6 years and yet up until a month or so ago I was still managing to delude myself that I was fit and healthy! However, the advent of spring and running around in the garden and parks with the little ones made me realise that I was anything but. Lack of muscle tone and breathlessness after the shortest bursts of activity made me admit that something had to be done.
As I was pondering what my exercise of choice would be - running, yoga, swimming, a combination of all three? - Power Pilates UK got in touch with a challenge. Did I want to tone up and improve my strength and fitness? And did I want to see/feel a difference within a matter of weeks? Yes!
UPBEAT AND DYNAMIC
Based in Breeze Yoga studios in Beckenham, Power Pilates UK offers a intense, upbeat Pilates class in a new and dynamic way. Performed on reformer machines, the class promises to 'tone, sculpt and strengthen your body in ways you never thought possible'.
Popular in central London and in boot camp style programmes due to the dramatic results that can be achieved, Power Pilates UK has been brought to South East London by Korin Nolan, a trained dancer, former TV presenter and co-author of 'How to Cook in High Heels' with Sasha Parker.
BUT I'M SCARED!
I attended the first session with trepidation, but after just 50 minutes I came out feeling on top of the world. The sensation of working my muscles again, in a structured way, felt exhilarating. You work on a reformer machine with springs, as well as using a resistance ring and dumbbells at varying points. It doesn't take long to get used to the equipment, or to the moves, and after only a couple of sessions I was able to really get 'into the zone' and understand how to properly work specific muscles.
I started with beginner sessions, but's what great about Power Pilates is that you have the flexibility to make moves easier or harder simply by adjusting resistance or moving your body in a different way. Trainers Korin and Jaclyn are great at this - class sizes are a maximum of 5 so they can help each individual get the most out of a session according to their level or need.
I'VE GOT A SIX PACK
Ok, not quite. But I do have to say that of all the exercise I've tried in my life (and I did once run a half-marathon, many moons ago), Power Pilates gives very quick results. After every session I can really feel the work my muscles have done, and after session 4 or 5 I could already begin to see the difference in tone around my thighs and stomach.
I'M AN ADDICT
That's not true either! But there is something about Power Pilates that is addictive. Its results-driven approach, plus the fact you can see and feel a difference so quickly, combine to make it something you don't want to give up on. The instructors are inspiring with their long and strong bodies, and know when and how to coax you through a tough move.
I've found that I feel stronger, and I even want to do squats and lunges at home. What a confession! Not only that, but I've also become more mindful about what I'm eating. Korin is a firm advocate of healthy but delicious eating, and has created a detailed plan full of tasty and nutritious meals that are also satisfying. As a confirmed sugar-holic, it has been challenging for me but I am managing to cut down on sweet treats and sugar in tea by finding alternatives. Why waste all that hard work in class?!
MORE SESSIONS, MORE TRAINERS
Power Pilates UK has recently announced a new early class on Thursday mornings, as well as two new trainers to whip the masses into shape.
If you'd like to try out Power Pilates UK, you can get 2 classes for £20 with their introductory offer. Maybe I'll see you there!
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