The Pilates sessions are always one to one, matwork based and often utilise a variety of Pilates equipment (eg soft ball, weights, blocks, foam roller, spiky ball etc) during the session . Sessions are focused on addressing any specific concerns or issues, but can also be undertaken for general wellbeing. The first session includes an assessment (including medical history and movement analysis) and learning fundamental Pilates techniques including 'core engagement' aka 'centring', as well as a few other basic principles that optimise the exercises (such as breathing patterns, and optimal body placement). Follow-up sessions are exercise and movement focused, but can recap any areas from the first session that need practice or further explanation. Sessions can include stretch & mobility work, strengthening exercises, balance training and endurance work. It is best to commit to at least 3 sessions undertaken reasonably close together. The first session is primarily focused on assessment, the second focuses on teaching the personalised exercise programme (that is based on the assessment findings and areas someone wishes to focus on), and the third session is a good opportunity to check how the exercises are being carried out and offer further advice on optimisation of the exercises if needed. Physio led therapeutic & rehabilitative Pilates sessions are 1 hour in duration and are primarily Pilates based, but sometimes include physiotherapy exercises when appropriate and useful. Please wear suitable attire for exercising (such as Pilates/yoga/gym-wear). Please call if you would like to know more about the sessions, and if they are suitable for your particular needs.
Medical Qi Gong (1:1 sessions - physio led)
Qi Gong originates from China, where it has long been practiced for health and longevity (as well as martial arts prowess). It involves a series of movements in conjunction with regulation of the mind & breath. There are several categories of Qi Gong (one of which being Medical Qi Gong, of which there are different forms). The gentle and slow forms of Medical Qi Gong such as Baduanjin can be very meditative and calming for the nervous system. Despite it’s gentleness it is very strengthening for the body. Medical Qi Gong is particularly effective for the prevention and correction of kyphosis (curvature of upper spine/hunched forward posture) and other postural issues. Kyphosis is common nowadays due to increased time spent working at desks, but those spending a lot of time feeding and carrying babies often experience issues in similar areas of the back as the desk workers and also gain great relief with Qi Gong. Another key area of modern life that Qi Gong can help us with is in the management of stress, which often results in feelings of hurriedness and an inability to enjoy the present moment. Qi Gong provides a wonderful opportunity to slow down, focus on the body and become more grounded.
Benefits of Medical Qi Gong include: ● Improved posture, co-ordination and balance ● A calmer mind and feeling more grounded ● Cultivation and circulation of Qi (energetic life force) ● Improved blood and lymph circulation ● Increased strength and range of movement
1:1 sessions are particularly useful for: ● Anyone new to Qi Gong that would like a strong grounding in it ● Those with specific health concerns that require guidance on which aspects to focus on (or avoid). ● Those that are keen to receive personalised feedback to progress their Qi Gong practice. ● People that have not exercised for a while (perhaps due to injury or life pressures) and who wish to regain confidence in movement, and to build up their strength gently and with guidance. ● Those that dislike group classes or wants to book sessions at a time that suits their own schedule.
Please attend sessions wearing loose fitting clothes and flat shoes/trainers.
Therapeutic Exercise (1:1 sessions - Physio led)
These 1 hour sessions incorporate a combination of Physio based exercises, Pilates, Medical Qi Gong and breathing techniques. They are completely personalised and based on an initial assessment that is carried out on the first session. It is best to commit to a minimum of 3 sessions. Please wear suitable attire for exercising (such as Pilates/yoga/gym-wear). Please call if you would like to know more about the sessions, and if they are suitable for your particular needs.