North West Pilates & Yoga Centre

Pilates Reformer & Tower For Pregnancy

2012-02-12T07:32:00.004-08:00

Pilates Reformer & Tower For Pregnancy
Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30pm Or Friday 5:00 - 6:00pm
4 Weeks For £40.98
Buy Now

I recently had the opportunity to meet with world famous Pilates Instructor Carolyne Anthony in Kuala Lumpa, Malaysia. Carolyne is an international presenter on the Pilates circuit and also author of Pilates For Pregnancy. Her book gives many excellent exercises for both The Tower and The Reformer, which I am now using in my classes. Carolyne is hosting a Pilates For Pregnancy course in London. For more information visit www.thecenterforwomensfitness.com You can Purchase her latest Diastasis Recti book on Amazon.
Pregnancy Reformer And Tower Class

About Carolyne

Carolyne Anthony has been in the Dance, Fitness and Pilates world for over 30 years. She trained as a professional dancer in London, England in the late 1970's. She obtained her teaching diploma in1982 and went on to dance professionally in Europe, Asia and Africa. She remains a member of the Royal Academy of Dancing and an Associate of The Imperial Society of Teacher of Dance. Carolyne was introduced to Pilates in 1983, at the prompting of her Jazz instructor. She found Alan Herdman and continued to learn from him until she left for the USA.

Carolyne works from a holistic point of view, seeing the body as an amazing instrument that needs the correct attention in order to work properly. Her efforts to make this possible for her clients has led her to study for her Masters in Natural Health, become certified as a Birth Doula and to learn other healing modalities . Currently Carolyne is a level two Reiki practitioner, Level 1 Myofascial release practitioner.

Course Summary

The pre/post natal Pilates Specialist course from The Center for Women's Fitness comes from over 20 years of experience. Designed to meet the needs of a changing pregnant body from the first trimester through birth and into the postpartum period, this course offers a holistic mind/body technique that includes extensive anatomy of the pelvic floor, healing exercises for diastasis recti and c sections plus breathing and relaxation techniques for labor and delivery. Use of Pilates exercises on the Mat and Equipment form the practical side of the workshop.

Boutique French Yoga & Pilates Retreat

2012-02-12T07:32:00.003-08:00

Boutique French Yoga & Pilates Retreat
Friday 27th - 29th April 2012
£195
Buy Now

Dear nisha

Join Northwest Pilates & Yoga for wonderful Pilates Holidays and Yoga Retreats in Southwest France.

Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta... Plug in, renew and relax.

"I really enjoyed the experience I had on my weekend away. I am now a convert to Yoga/Pilates and only hope I can find the same high quality teaching in the North East where I live, that I received during the weekend. I loved the centre, the food and the other group members, many of whom were strangers to me." - Pilates holidays and yoga retreat client Dee Platter

Les Passeroses is a beautiful old farmhouse which has been lovingly and wonderfully restored. Set in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Passeroses means Hollyhocks. You will see many of these lovely flowers around the walls during summer.

This region is famed for the quality of its light, a luminosity that draws artists and photographers from far afield. There is a clarity which comes from the nearby ocean, combined with a warm inland glow that produces amber light which softens the contours and gives a magical radiance to any stone that it falls upon.

Set in the very heart of rural Charente, Les Passeroses is ideally located - not only for its position between five airports, good road networks and train communications - but also for its peace and quiet! The beautiful rolling countryside is mainly used for crops rather than pasture. Vines, maize and sunflowers fill almost every field from May through to October.
Yoga Retreats In France - Yoga Retreat France
Yoga Retreats In France - Yoga Retreat France

Set low into the side of a hill the house enjoys great privacy. During your free time you can swim, walk explore or just chill out. There is a large oval swimming pool next to the house with views from the terrace over the rolling hills. Here you can relax in the shade, in the comfort of the hammocks.

Steps down from the pool terrace lead you past the large fig tree and down to mature gardens. A bench is situated by the calming Japanese inspired pond - formed from a very old 'Lavoir' or stone washing pit - but there are also many other places to sit quietly and enjoy the shaded tranquillity or find personal space, including the 1 1/2 acre meadow.

Pilates & Yoga On Your Pilates Holiday & Yoga Retreat

This will be a fun and energising Pilates Holiday and Yoga Retreat, suitable for practioners of all levels. Through a varied practice we will have the opportunity to explore Yoga/Pilates in its fuller sense. There are times in life when we need to let go, relax and unwind, others when we look to energise and reconnect with the bigger picture. Our moods, the stresses of life, the seasons and many other factors can affect how we feel. Pilates and Yoga enables people to detect and correct imbalances that relate to stress, nutrition, learning problems, minor injuries and other issues they meet in their daily life.

During this Pilates Holiday and Yoga Retreat week we will look at ways in which we can use our Yoga/Pilates to improve our everyday living. You will leave with restored energy levels, a renewed vibrancy and a relaxed mind and body. Reconnect with your inner light and experience body brightness.
Northwest Pilates & Yoga Retreats - Les Passeroses 2010
Northwest Pilates & Yoga Retreats - Les Passeroses 2010

You will do your daily Pilates and Yoga practice in an 8x9 meter barn that has been beautifully transformed in to a Yoga studio with solid oak floors and a dramatic tented ceiling. Sunlight floods the space from three huge windows with panoramic views of the countryside.

Accommodation on your Pilates Holidays and Yoga Retreat

The accommodation at Les Passeroses is beautiful and every attention to detail has been taken. Accommodation in the main house for ten people is spread over five rooms, each with its own character.

Additional accommodation for a further 6 people is available just a few minutes' walk along the country lane in the beautifully converted stables.

Though decorated and furnished in a simple style, the finish and details gives each room a luxury feel. All rooms have views over the rolling countryside and windows covered with blue shutters. Fine, crisp bed linen and super soft towels are standard for every guest.

Food on your Pilates Holidays and Yoga Retreats

Food is very important at Les Passeroses and of course, healthy and delicious. All meals are home cooked and vegetarian. Wine is available for purchase with dinner.

Alex has worked with food for nearly 20 years, firstly training to be a Chef in some of the best restaurants in Manchester and Cheshire including The Lime Tree and The Alderley Edge Hotel. He has also set up several kitchens and his own vegetarian food business.

There is a small kitchen area available for students to use where tea and coffee is provided.

Massage and Treatments on your Pilates Holidays and Yoga Retreat

A local English therapist Jan Randall will arrange appointments for her wonderful treatments. Jan offers blissful Aromatherapy Massages, Reflexology and Therapeutic Massage and hot stones!

"I spent an idyllic weekend with a group of 9 from North West Pilates Centre. Fantastic location in the south of France. We stayed in a stunning house and were fed beautiful home cooked food. Therapist was available to perform massages. My aromatherapy massage was out of this world. Nisha put together an absolutely brilliant set of classes which pushed us mentally and physically at the right time throughout the weekend. I have come home completely restored and feeling like a new woman. Can't wait for the next one." - Pilates holiday and yoga retreat client Claire Sumner

Activities and excursions on your pilates holidays and yoga retreat

During your free time on your Pilates holiday and Yoga Retreat you can choose to swim, walk, and bike or explore further afield. Mountain bikes are available to use at no charge.

If you fancy exploring, the nearby town of Montmoreau boasts one the largest and most important churches on the pilgrimage route of Santiago de la Compostelle, along with an impressive and recently restored Chateau. A lively town with a train station (you can catch a train to nearby Angouleme or Bordeaux here), bars and restaurants, it is only a few minutes away from Les Passeroses.

If you wish to venture further afield, you will find the country roads wind over wooded hills and sun-flowered valleys to reach the hearts of rural villages; each with at least an 11/12th century church, a 17th century manor or impressive Chateau. Nonac is a good example - a small sleepy village with a small church and a crypt housing a beautiful fresco.

Sample Timetable

Friday

3.00-6.00pm - Arrival & Lunch

7.00pm - Dinner

9.00-10.30pm-Yoga/Pilates by Candlelight

Saturday

8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class including morning meditation

10.15am-Breakfast Free Time - For Massage, walks, bike ride etc

2.00pm-Lunch Free Time-For Massage etc

4.00pm-Chai & Tiffin

5.00-7.00pm Yoga/Pilates Fusion class

7.30pm-Dinner

9.30pm -Yoga Nidra, Pranayama, Meditation

Sunday

8.00-10.00am - Fusion Flow class including morning meditation

Transport options - http://www.passeroses.com/gettinghere.html

For those travelling from Liverpool Airport book your flight now

Therapeutic Pilates & Yoga Workshop

2012-02-12T07:32:00.001-08:00

Therapeutic Pilates & Yoga Workshop
Sunday 4th March
11:00 - 1:00pm
Cost - £20
Buy Now
(Places Limited)

St. Ann's Millenium Centre
View Road
Rainhill, Merseyside

Dear nisha

This workshop will apply the basic principles of breathing, grounding and elongation of the spine to both gentle and challenging postures and discover the possibility of relaxation, enjoyment and freedom in our spines.

For more information email - info@pilates4sport.com or call 01744 751115

Buy a 4 Week Package & Get a Free Class. 4 Week Pilates Mat - £24.98 4 Week Pilates Reformer - £40.99

Terms and Conditions Apply

Buy either of the 4 week packages in the month of February and get a free class.Mat classes can now be used for Gyrokenesis and vice versa.

Terms & Conditions Apply

This offer can only be used once by each customer

Free class must be used with in the package period

Classes are subject to availibility

4 Week Pilates Beginners Mat - £24.98 - Book Now

When?

Wednesdays 5:30 - 6:30pm or 6:30 - 7:30pm or 7:30 - 8:30pm

Saturdays 10:30 - 11:30am (View full timetable)

Each hour long pilates mat session is ran at the Northwest Pilates and Yoga Studio in St Helens and can host up to eight participants.

4 Week Pilates Beginners Reformer - £40.99 - Book Now

When?
Mondays 11:00 - 12:00am
Tuesdays 5:30 - 6:30pm or 8:30 - 9:30pm
Fridays 5:00 - 6:00pm
Saturdays 11:30 - 12:30am(View full timetable)

Each one hour V2 Max Plus™ Reformer session is hosted at the Northwest Pilates and Yoga Centre in St Helens and can host up to four participants.

Despite the somewhat medieval name, the STOTT PILATES Reformer machine is actually an amazingly elegant machine. The STOTT PILATES Reformer provides finely tuned exercise resistance that allows one to work very precisely to develop good alignment, core strength, and flexibility.

Check in on Foursquare, Check in on Facebook or Book on the go.

Free 60 Minute Gyrotonic® Lessons For All

2012-02-12T07:30:00.002-08:00

Free 60 Minute Gyrotonic® Lessons For All
Buy 5 Get One Free

Purchase a block of five Private Pilates Sessions and use with any of our staff and get a free Gyrotonic Lesson at no extra cost. (Five Private Package Must Be Purchased In January To Obtain The Free Lesson, Private Sessions Must Be Used Within 6 Months).
Chris and Jen Daly's Gyrotonic Studio on Rachel Ray!
Chris and Jen Daly's Gyrotonic Studio on Rachel Ray!
Block of 5 privates:
£175 for five 60 min one to one sessions
(Actual value £200)
6 month expiry.

Whats the difference between Gyrotonic & Pilates?

Can Men Do Gyrotonic?
GYROTONIC(R) at CORE Therapy & Pilates-
GYROTONIC(R) at CORE Therapy & Pilates-

Book one of our staff with your 5 pack private package now

To book Eileen click here

To book Jane click here

To book Anita click here

To book Nisha click here

GYROKINESIS® - "Spinal Revolution A Breakthrough In Back Science".

The thoracic spine is built for rotation, flexion, and extension. It is highly mobile - or, rather, it has the potential for lots of mobility. Because of its mobility, the thoracic spine must be used, must be moved. But it has to be known.

If people are unable to visualize and feel the movement of the thoracic spine, or if they're unable to even grasp the concept of its existence, they'll just attempt to twist, rotate, flex, and bend with something familiar to them: the lumbar spine. That's bad news.

A movement system that gently works the entire body opening energy pathways through rhythmic, spiraling movements.

Fluid movements that feel like dance are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, utilizing low stools and mats. All fitness levels, from novice to professional, can benefit from this system.

Everyone new will need to learn the foundations of good alignment before attending any of the classes on the timetable, unless you are very experienced in Pilates. We advise a private consultation or any of the starter packages.

GYROTONIC®, GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® and GYROKINESIS® are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic Sales Corporation and used with their permission.

Mondays 10:00 - 11:00am

Thursdays 5:30 - 6:30pm

Book Now.
Gyrokinesis with Regis and Kelly
Watch Gyrokinesis with Regis and Kelly

A New Year, A New You.

2012-02-12T07:30:00.001-08:00

A New Year, A New You.

Book your classes online now!

Dear nisha

A new year's resolution is a noteworthy concept-start off the year with a change for the better. So how did it devolve into a subconscious exercise in self-loathing? Lose 10 pounds! (Message to self: You're fat.) Stop drinking caffeine! (You're unhealthy.) Call Mom and Dad once a week! (You're ungrateful.) Why not celebrate this new year by trading in your tired (and probably familiar) resolutions for a sankalpa instead?

POSITIVE POWER A Sanskrit word, sankalpa means "will, purpose, or determination." To make a sankalpa is to set an intention-it's like a New Year's resolution with a yogic twist. While a resolution often zeros in on a perceived negative aspect of ourselves (as in, "I want to lose weight, so no more chocolate chip cookies or ice cream or cheese"), a sankalpa explores what's behind the thought or feeling ("I crave chocolate chip cookies or ice cream or cheese when I'm feeling stressed or sad. I will set an intention to become conscious of this craving and allow my feelings to arise and pass, rather than fill up on fats").

EFFORT COUNTS A sankalpa also praises the nobility of the effort rather than focusing on what you are doing wrong. "New Year's resolutions leave me feeling guilty and mad at myself for not keeping them," says Wendy McClellan, a yoga teacher in Louisville, Kentucky. So, last year, in a conscious effort to reject the resolution rut, she taught a special New Year's Eve yoga class and encouraged students to look back and let go. Her intention, or sankalpa? To open her heart to new possibilities. "An intention has much more of a global sense than a resolution," she says. "It helps me be softer with myself." With a sankalpa, the self-loathing that comes from dwelling on past transgressions can begin to dissolve. In its place is an exercise in effort and surrender-create an intention and open yourself to the universe. Sankalpa Setting

LOOK INWARD For several days, set aside time to write in a journal and meditate. Mull over your typical resolutions. How do they make you feel? Anxious? Unsettled? Incomplete? Now contemplate how you would like to feel during the coming year. Is there any way you can reframe your results-oriented resolutions into something that will make this year's journey more joyful and worthwhile?

REPHRASE IT Create a short sentence or phrase for your sankalpa. Be careful not to set limitations based on fear. For example, instead of "May life bring me only happiness and joy this year" consider "May I be happy and open to what life brings me."

BE FIRM BUT FAIR Change doesn't happen overnight. When you stray from the essence of your sankalpa, don't berate yourself. Instead, gently remind yourself of your intention. But be firm in your resolve-it's a good idea to incorporate your sankalpa into yoru daily routine. Use it as a mantra during pranayama or meditation practice; post it on your computer, phone, or mirror; or simply say it to yourself quietly before going to sleep. -C.G

Book your classes online now!

Whats new for 2012 ?

GYROKINESIS® - "Spinal Revolution A Breakthrough In Back Science".

The thoracic spine is built for rotation, flexion, and extension. It is highly mobile - or, rather, it has the potential for lots of mobility. Because of its mobility, the thoracic spine must be used, must be moved. But it has to be known.

If people are unable to visualize and feel the movement of the thoracic spine, or if they're unable to even grasp the concept of its existence, they'll just attempt to twist, rotate, flex, and bend with something familiar to them: the lumbar spine. That's bad news.

A movement system that gently works the entire body opening energy pathways through rhythmic, spiraling movements.

Fluid movements that feel like dance are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, utilizing low stools and mats. All fitness levels, from novice to professional, can benefit from this system.

Everyone new will need to learn the foundations of good alignment before attending any of the classes on the timetable, unless you are very experienced in Pilates. We advise a private consultation or any of the starter packages.

GYROTONIC®, GYROTONIC EXPANSION SYSTEM® and GYROKINESIS® are registered trademarks of Gyrotonic Sales Corporation and used with their permission.

Mondays 10:00 - 11:00am

Thursdays 5:30 - 6:30pm

Book Now.
Gyrokinesis with Regis and Kelly
Watch Gyrokinesis with Regis and Kelly
Introducing new STOTTPILATES® Instructor Eileen Jackson

Book Personal Training With Eileen Jackson Mondays 5:00 - 6:00pm or 6:00 - 7:00pm
Book Now

Eileen has a keen interest in fitness and has participated in various forms of exercise since the age of 18. She started doing JAG Popmobility at the age of 18 and soon became part of the display team touring the North West doing fitness displays. She soon found an interest in weight training, training regularly at a local gym in Warrington.

Over the years Eileen became interested in various forms of exercise including, Aerobics, Boxercise, Circuit Training and Step to name but a few and did her Gym Instructors Course in 1998. She worked for various fitness companies in the evenings as a class assistant and stand in instructor teaching various classes over the years.

She took up Yoga in 2003 and soon became interested in the practice of Iyengar Yoga and went on to practice Yoga at the North West Yoga and Pilates Centre. Having practiced Yoga Fusion with Nisha Srivastava for 18 months Eileen took up the practice of Pilates on the V2 Max Reformer in 2009 and combined this with Yoga and running as her main focus of training.

In gaining the positive benefits of physical, mental and spiritual improvements from training in the various disciplines, and fortified by a second Yoga retreat in France in May 2011, Eileen made the decision to take the next step and train as an instructor, hoping to pass on the benefits she has experienced. Eileen enrolled on the STOTT Intermediate Mat Pilates course in September 2011 and intends to enrol on a Yoga Teachers course in 2012 with a view to teaching both disciplines as a career.

Book Eileen Now.

Check in on Foursquare, Check in on Facebook or Book on the go.

Steven Gerrard Does Yoga.

2012-02-12T07:29:00.000-08:00

Try one of our Yoga Classes

Wednesday 6:30 - 8:00pm - £7 Drop in
Thursday 6:30 - 7:30pm - £5 Drop in

Dont forget to bring your Yoga Mat!

Dear nisha

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has spoken very positively about his recovery from the groin injury which saw him miss the last part of the 2010/11 season.

Gerrard is confident on making the start of the new season in August and says he is in top shape right now after a new fitness regime involving yoga.

Steven Gerrard

"My groin feels so good just now," he said. "For two or three hours each day I will have to work on my body to make sure I am right,. But I don't see that as a chore. This is me getting right for Liverpool Football Club.

"I have started doing yoga a couple of times a week as well. It absolutely wipes you out. People who think you turn up and you're just posing in different shapes should have a go!"

Gerrard was forced to use crutches for several weeks following the injury sustained in early March, and can't wait to resume training.
Yoga In Liverpool - Liverpool Yoga/Pilates
Yoga In Liverpool - Liverpool Yoga/Pilates

He added, "I am enjoying it after the sessions because I am feeling the benefits. I've not kicked a ball for a long time, probably the longest I have gone in my career, and I can't wait to get back now."

"I am excited about playing under Kenny Dalglish, just like the team did at the end of the season, which was going forward. We were playing with bottle and character and going all out to beat teams. And that always suits my style of playing."

(http://www.thisisanfield.com/2011/06/steven-gerrards-secret-yoga-recovery/)

Try one of our Yoga Classes

Wednesday 6:30 - 8:00pm - £7 Drop in
Thursday 6:30 - 7:30pm - £5 Drop in

Dont forget to bring your Yoga Mat!

Yoga St.Helens - Yoga Classes In St.Helens
Yoga St.Helens - Yoga Classes In St.Helens

Harry Potter and Yoga are Evil', says Catholic Church Exorcist

2012-02-12T07:27:00.000-08:00

Harry Potter and Yoga are Evil', says Catholic Church Exorcist
(http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/harry-potter/8915691/Harry-Potter-and-yoga-are-evil-says-Catholic-Church-exorcist.html)

"Try our Yoga classes yourself and make your own oppinion!"

Wednesday 6:30 - 8:00pm - £7 Drop In
Thursday 6:30 - 7:30 - £5 Drop in
Yoga St.Helens - Yoga Classes In St.Helens
Yoga St.Helens - Yoga Classes In St.Helens

For most people it is a way of toning the limbs and soothing the stresses of everyday life, but the Catholic Church's best-known exorcist says yoga is evil.
Father Gabriele Amorth, the official exorcist of Vatican City

Father Gabriele Amorth, who for years was the Vatican's chief exorcist and claims to have cleansed hundreds of people of evil spirits, said yoga is Satanic because it leads to a worship of Hinduism and "all eastern religions are based on a false belief in reincarnation".

Reading JK Rowling's Harry Potter books is no less dangerous, said the 86-year-old priest, who is the honorary president for life of the International Association of Exorcists, which he founded in 1990, and whose favourite film is the 1973 horror classic, The Exorcist.

The Harry Potter books, which have sold millions of copies worldwide, "seem innocuous" but in fact encourage children to believe in black magic and wizardry, Father Amorth said.

"Practising yoga is Satanic, it leads to evil just like reading Harry Potter," he told a film festival in Umbria this week, where he was invited to introduce The Rite, a film about exorcism starring Sir Anthony Hopkins as a Jesuit priest.
Yoga In Liverpool - Liverpool Yoga/Pilates
Yoga In Liverpool - Liverpool Yoga/Pilates

"In Harry Potter the Devil acts in a crafty and covert manner, under the guise of extraordinary powers, magic spells and curses," said the priest, who in 1986 was appointed the chief exorcist for the Diocese of Rome.

"Satan is always hidden and what he most wants is for us not to believe in his existence. He studies every one of us and our tendencies towards good and evil, and then he offers temptations." Science was incapable of explaining evil, said Father Amorth, who has written two books on his experiences as an exorcist. "It's not worth a jot.The scientist simply explores what God has already created." His views may seem extreme, but in fact reflect previous warnings by Pope Benedict XVI, when as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger he was the head of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Vatican's enforcer of doctrinal orthodoxy.
Pilates Manchester -- Pilates Reformer Classes Manchester
Sale Sharks Do Yoga.

In 1999, six years before he succeeded John Paul II as Pope, he issued a document which warned Roman Catholics of the dangers of yoga, Zen, transcendental meditation and other 'eastern' practises.

They could "degenerate into a cult of the body" that debases Christian prayer, the document said.

Yoga poses could create a feeling of well-being in the body but it was erroneous to confuse that with "the authentic consolations of the Holy Spirit," the document said.

Italian yoga schools said Father Amorth's criticism was absurd.

"It's an accusation that has nothing to do with reality," Vanda Vanni, the founder of the Mediterranean Yoga Association, told Adnkronos, an Italian news agency.

"It's a theory - if one can call it a theory - that is totally without foundation. Yoga is not a religion or a spiritual practise. It doesn't have even the slightest connection with Satanism or Satanic sects." Giorgio Furlan, the founder of the Yoga Academy of Rome, said yoga had nothing to do with religion, "least of all Satanism." "Whoever says that shows that they know absolutely nothing about yoga," he said.
Yoga in Lancashire - Yoga Wigan/Yoga classes in Wigan
Yoga in Lancashire - Yoga Wigan/Yoga classes in Wigan

Father Amorth has previously said that people who are possessed by Satan vomit shards of glass and pieces of iron and have such superhuman strength that even children have to be held down by up to four people.

He has also claimed that the sex abuse scandals which have engulfed the Catholic Church in the US, Ireland, Germany and other countries was proof that the Anti-Christ is waging a war against the Holy See.

Gift Vouchers

Give the gift of Pilates to friends and family with North West Pilates Gift Vouchers. They can be redeemed for a class pass or for privates and personal training. Know someone who is wanting to get in shape but not sure where to start? Is a family member suffering from back pain who could be treated by our physiotherapist and wellness team? What about convincing a friend to join our fantastic pilates and fitness program along with you?

A perfect christmas or birthday gift that will produce results for the recipient!

You can now purchase gift vouchers of £50 or £100 online. Once in this new window click on the tab at the top right hand corner that says ONLINE STORE and click the menu that says GIFT CARDS/CREDIT. You will get a drop down menu of the value of gift card you would like to purchase. Follow the steps from here. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to ring us on 01744-751115 or come visit us so that our reception team can help you with your enquiries.

Marine Paul Thornly Makes Career Change to Pilates Instructor

2012-02-12T07:26:00.000-08:00

Marine Paul Thornly Makes Career Change to Pilates Instructor

Paul will be hosting classes at our studio in St.Helens on Tuesday 8th November. His schedule is below so why not book on line and see what he has to offer.

Royal Marine Paul Thornly made the massive move from a Marine to an Instructor Trainer with STOTT PILATES. Five years ago, an opportunity arose for him to have a career change which he grabbed with both hands and over that period has been gaining the knowledge and experience that has allowed him to offer the very best treatment solutions for his clientele, from the general public to his elite sporting clients

He is one of only thirty qualified Advanced Neuromuscular Therapists in Ireland, after receiving his training from Leon Chaitow ND DO of the University of Westminster and Judith Delaney, Director of American Neuromuscular Therapy Florida. He is also one of three fully certified STOTT PILATES Instructors in the country, after completing his training at the STOTT PILATES headquarters in Toronto, Canada.
Former Marine Paul Thornly in Action !
Former Marine Paul Thornly in Action !

These skills have given him a real advantage over the more traditional methods of treating chronic and acute pain, whether occupational or sports related, particularly in the injury prevention portion of my treatments. Here he brings a real passion for educating his clientele on how to avoid progressive poor posture and incorrect bio-mechanical movement patterns in order to prevent painful symptoms arising in the first instance, as well addressing the rehabilitation phase of their treatments.

"I love my job with passion as it allows me to improve the posture, the mobility, the comfort and the quality of life of my patients..."

Paul will be hosting classes at our studio in St.Helens on Tuesday 8th November. His schedule is below so why not book on line and see what he has to offer.

Tuesday 8th November with Paul Thornly

5.30-6.30pm-Level 1 Reformer /Back care Clients

6.30-7.30pm-Level 1 Reformer

7.30-8.30pm-Level 2 Reformer Sold out

Jane Makes Liverpool Even Hotter

2012-02-12T07:24:00.000-08:00

Jane Makes Liverpool Even Hotter

North West Pilates Instructor Jane Grogan is the first Pilates Instructor to introduce HOT PILATES to Merseyside.Jane is also teaching at the newly opened Hot studio in Walton,Liverpool "Yoga Nation".Hot Pilates is different from Pilates as its taught in a heated studio.Love it or hate it,its here to stay and has a celebrity following in the USA .You cant judge a HOT PILATES class till you have tried it. Jane also teaches at our studio on a Thursday evening,to book Jane click here

You can read Janes celebrity column in the latest edition of His & Hers

Jane hails from a dance and theatrical background, having performed professionally both as a dancer and a choreographer for a number of Pantomimes, Music Videos and Shows. She now runs her own PR Company as well as being a Pilates and Zumba instructor.

She always had a major interest in sport and fitness and found both Pilates and Yoga to be excellent forms of exercise which tied in well with her dancing. She decided to take up Pilates/Yoga lessons 6 years ago and has continued with them ever since. She embarked on STOTTPILATES in order to train as a studio instructor. She now teaches group mat classes at local gyms and private one on one session.

Jane likes to promote fun, fitness and fabulousness through her classes, and rumour has it Jane is involved in the new reality TV series "Desperate scouse wives"

Book Jane now. - 4 Private 60 minute sessions £140 Or a single session £40

Jane's Qualifications

* November 2010, STOTTPILATES Intensive Mat Plus Course, YMCA, Central London.
* November 2010, November 2010 Zumba. Maidstone,Kent.

Give the gift of Pilates to friends and family with North West Pilates Gift Vouchers. They can be redeemed for a class pass or for privates and person

2011-11-19T06:54:00.002-08:00

Give the gift of Pilates to friends and family with North West Pilates Gift Vouchers. They can be redeemed for a class pass or for privates and personal training. Know someone who is wanting to get in shape but not sure where to start? Is a family member suffering from back pain who could be treated by our physiotherapist and wellness team? What about convincing a friend to join our fantastic pilates and fitness program along with you?

A perfect christmas or birthday gift that will produce results for the recipient!

You can now purchase gift vouchers of £50 or £100 online. Once in this new window click on the tab at the top right hand corner that says ONLINE STORE and click the menu that says GIFT CARDS/CREDIT. You will get a drop down menu of the value of gift card you would like to purchase. Follow the steps from here. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to ring us on 01744-751115 or come visit us so that our reception team can help you with your enquiries.

Pilates Gift Vouchers - Christmas gift Vouchers.

2011-11-19T06:54:00.001-08:00

Jane Makes Liverpool Even Hotter

2011-11-19T06:52:00.000-08:00

North West Pilates Instructor Jane Grogan is the first Pilates Instructor to introduce HOT PILATES to Merseyside.Jane is also teaching at the newly opened Hot studio in Walton,Liverpool "Yoga Nation".Hot Pilates is different from Pilates as its taught in a heated studio.Love it or hate it,its here to stay and has a celebrity following in the USA .You cant judge a HOT PILATES class till you have tried it. Jane also teaches at our studio on a Thursday evening,to book Jane click here

Jane hails from a dance and theatrical background, having performed professionally both as a dancer and a choreographer for a number of Pantomimes, Music Videos and Shows. She now runs her own PR Company as well as being a Pilates and Zumba instructor.

She always had a major interest in sport and fitness and found both Pilates and Yoga to be excellent forms of exercise which tied in well with her dancing. She decided to take up Pilates/Yoga lessons 6 years ago and has continued with them ever since. She embarked on STOTTPILATES in order to train as a studio instructor. She now teaches group mat classes at local gyms and private one on one session.

Jane likes to promote fun, fitness and fabulousness through her classes, and rumour has it Jane is involved in the new reality TV series "Desperate scouse wives"

Book Jane now. - 4 Private 60 minute sessions £140 Or a single session £40

Jane's Qualifications

* November 2010, STOTTPILATES Intensive Mat Plus Course, YMCA, Central London.
* November 2010, November 2010 Zumba. Maidstone,Kent.

Yoga may work better for lower back pain than conventional treatments

2011-11-19T06:51:00.000-08:00

Yoga May Work Better for Lower Back Pain than Conventional Treatments- Doing yoga is a more effective way for people with lower back pain to become more mobile than the treatments currently offered by GPs, according to new research.

"Patients with lower back pain who did yoga showed bigger improvements in their ability to everyday physical tasks". by Nik Fleming,theguardian.co.uk Monday 31st October

Yoga sessions used in the study were designed to be safe and beneficial for people with lower back pain.

Doing yoga is a more effective way for people with lower back pain to become more mobile than the treatments currently offered by GPs, according to new research.

The study found that back pain sufferers recorded greater improvements in everyday physical tasks such as walking, bending down and getting dressed if they did weekly yoga sessions.

Participants who had practised yoga reported enhanced function compared with those receiving standard care, even nine months after the yoga classes had finished.

Previous, smaller studies have suggested yoga could be beneficial to back pain sufferers. However, these have often involved just one teacher and have not included long-term follow-up.

Back pain is estimated to affect 80% of adults at some point in their lives, and one in five people visits their GP in any given year because of it.

The condition, defined as chronic if it lasts longer than six weeks, is the second most common cause of long-term disability after arthritis and second only to stress as a cause of absence from work. It costs the NHS around £1bn per year and the annual cost to the economy has been estimated at £20bn.

Existing treatment options include painkillers, spinal manipulation, acupuncture, exercise classes and cognitive behavioural therapy.

"In the past when you had back pain, you were told to lie down until it passed," said Prof David Torgerson, director of the York Trial Unit at the University of York, who led the study.

"These days the main advice is to keep your back active. It seems yoga has more beneficial effects than usual care including other forms of exercise, although we have not carried out a direct comparison.

"We are still carrying out the economic analysis but it is likely yoga could reduce the costs of back pain both for patients and for the NHS."

Twenty experienced yoga teachers from the British Wheel of Yoga and Iyengar Yoga were trained to deliver a beginner level course of 12 yoga sessions specially designed to be safe and beneficial to those with lower back pain.

A group of 156 patients with chronic lower back pain were assigned to have the 75-minute yoga classes in north and west London, Manchester, York and Truro, in addition to normal GP care, while a control group of 157 just saw their GPs.

Participants filled in a 24-point questionnaire on whether their condition prevented them from doing everyday tasks. Lower scores equated to better function.

Those who did the yoga scored on average 2.17 points lower than those who did not. Three and nine months later, their scores were still 1.48 and 1.57 points lower respectively.

Participants also reported lower overall pain levels on average. However, this effect did not reach statistical significance. Around 60% of those in the yoga group continued with their practice after the classes.

The study is published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Rates of reported cases of back pain have doubled in the past 40 years in England, a trend seen in other Western countries. Some believe this is a result of higher levels of obesity, stress and depression, while others suggest people are more willing to report the condition.

When the UK's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence - which draws up guidelines on the best treatments - last reviewed treatments for lower back pain in May 2009, it ruled that exercise, spinal manipulation and acupuncture were cost-effective treatments.

"Yoga is one of a number of treatments that have now been shown to be effective for back pain," said Martin Underwood, professor of primary care research at Warwick Medical School.

"The study shows it having a small to moderate average effect for patients, meaning there will be some people who experience little or no effect and other people for whom it has substantial benefit. Unfortunately we don't yet know which patients respond to which treatments."

The study is published in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Rates of reported cases of back pain have doubled in the past 40 years in England, a trend seen in other Western countries. Some believe this is a result of higher levels of obesity, stress and depression, while others suggest people are more willing to report the condition.

When the UK's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence - which draws up guidelines on the best treatments - last reviewed treatments for lower back pain in May 2009, it ruled that exercise, spinal manipulation and acupuncture were cost-effective treatments.

"Yoga is one of a number of treatments that have now been shown to be effective for back pain," said Martin Underwood, professor of primary care research at Warwick Medical School.

"The study shows it having a small to moderate average effect for patients, meaning there will be some people who experience little or no effect and other people for whom it has substantial benefit. Unfortunately we don't yet know which patients respond to which treatments."

Marine Paul Thornly Makes Career Change to Pilates Instructor

2011-11-19T06:49:00.002-08:00

Paul will be hosting classes at our studio in St.Helens on Tuesday 8th November. His schedule is below so why not book on line and see what he has to offer.

Tuesday 8th November with Paul Thornly

5.30-6.30pm-Level 1 Reformer /Back Care Clients

6.30-7.30pm-Level 1 Reformer

7.30-8.30pm-Level 2 Reformer Sold out

8.30-9.30pm-Beginners /Level 1 Reformer

Royal Marine Paul Thornly made the massive move from a Marine to an Instructor Trainer with STOTT PILATES. Five years ago, an opportunity arose for him to have a career change which he grabbed with both hands and over that period has been gaining the knowledge and experience that has allowed him to offer the very best treatment solutions for his clientele, from the general public to his elite sporting clients

He is one of only thirty qualified Advanced Neuromuscular Therapists in Ireland, after receiving his training from Leon Chaitow ND DO of the University of Westminster and Judith Delaney, Director of American Neuromuscular Therapy Florida. He is also one of three fully certified STOTT PILATES Instructors in the country, after completing his training at the STOTT PILATES headquarters in Toronto, Canada.

These skills have given him a real advantage over the more traditional methods of treating chronic and acute pain, whether occupational or sports related, particularly in the injury prevention portion of my treatments. Here he brings a real passion for educating his clientele on how to avoid progressive poor posture and incorrect bio-mechanical movement patterns in order to prevent painful symptoms arising in the first instance, as well addressing the rehabilitation phase of their treatments.

"I love my job with passion as it allows me to improve the posture, the mobility, the comfort and the quality of life of my patients..."

Paul will be hosting classes at our studio in St.Helens on Tuesday 8th November. His schedule is below so why not book on line and see what he has to offer.

Tuesday 8th November with Paul Thornly

5.30-6.30pm-Level 1 Reformer /Back care Clients

6.30-7.30pm-Level 1 Reformer

7.30-8.30pm-Level 2 Reformer Sold out

8.30-9.30pm-Beginners /Level 1 Reformer

Check in on Foursquare, Check in on Facebook or Book on the go.

Nordic Walking Visits Anthony Gomley Statues

2011-11-19T06:49:00.001-08:00

Nordic Walking Visits Anthony Gomley Statues

Sunday 23rd October, 10:00am - 12:00am Crosby Lakeside Adventure Center

Cost £6 (Including pole hire)

£3 (Bring your own poles)

Book Now

Schedule:

10:00am : Meet at Carpark, Set poles up & Warm up

10:30am : Proceed to sand dunes practicing technique and drills

11:15am : Nordic walking on the beach (barefoot option)

11:45am : Nordic walk back to Carpark

(Total Duration: 2hrs)

Click Here for directions

Limited Spaces subject to pole availability

Nordic walking is an exciting new outdoor walking technique using specially designed walking poles.

It is one of the fastest growing recreational fitness sports in the world.

Come and try it. Book a Nordic Walking club training session with us where you can learn the first four stages which will get you safely and comfortably walking with the poles. Nordic walking club sessions last two hours and the price of £6 per person includes hire of the Gabel Nordic Walking poles.

Call 01744-751115 for details of when and where the next session will be.

For the general exerciser, Nordic Walking burns on average 20% more calories than normal walking at the same speed, plus most people find it makes walking more comfortable*

More calories burnt, for less effort

* Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. 73 (3), 296-300. September 2002

Originating from summer training for cross-country skiers, Nordic Walking works your upper and lower body at the same time. It strengthens the back, legs and arms, and reduces neck and shoulder tension - all this while improving the health of your heart and lungs.

You can gain all these health benefits, and more, while Nordic Walking with your friends.

Exercise intensity is determined by upper body effort so people of differing fitness levels can walk and talk together, while working to their own level with Nordic Walking.

There are three levels to Nordic Walking, how far you want to take it depends on your level of physical condition and your aims.

The different levels and individual programmes are appropriate for rehabilitation, health purposes, weight management, improving physical condition, relaxing and recovering.

Level 1 for Health

Level 2 for Fitness

Level 3 for Sports

Using Gabel Nordic Walking poles strengthens the large muscles of the back that pull down the shoulder blades, significantly reducing neck and shoulder tension. Gabel Nordic Walking poles have specially designed straps (different from normal walking poles), which allow you to release the grip as you push forward. With good Nordic Walking technique squeezing and releasing the grip through the stride strengthens the muscles of the wrist and this can reduce symptoms of RSI (repetitive stress injury).

When Nordic Walking, the increased use of the upper body reduces the load on your knees, allowing you to exercise with much more comfort than normal walking or jogging.

NORDIC WALKING - An Introduction
NORDIC WALKING - An Introduction

Nordic Walking is an ideal cross-training exercise technique and addition to your regular programme. Scientific studies of high intensity Nordic Walking** have demonstrated heart rate levels reaching 75% of maximal values while participants were still walking. Running with Exel Nordic Walking poles allows you to turn up the intensity even further.

Try Nordic Walking while wearing a heart rate monitor. The lowered rate of perceived exertion (RPE) felt with Nordic Walking means you might be surprised at just how hard your heart is working, while you are feeling relatively comfortable. This whole body muscular activity, high heart rate response and yet lowered RPE found with Nordic Walking means you can work at a higher intensity, for longer and with more ease than in many other types of training techniques - ideal cross-training.

* Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. 73 (3), 296-300. September 2002
** Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 33 (5), S496. May 2001

Nordic Walking Barefoot

Leaving your footprints along a wet sandy beach is one of the purest pleasures of the summer. It also happens to be one of the best workouts. Even just a few beach runs strengthens your ankles, arches, and all other below-the-knee muscles more than running on harder surfaces. It's so good for you that coaching legend Bob Sevene encourages his Big Sur Distance Project elite runners to run, walk, and even do "hill" repeats on sand several times a week. "Running on sand develops power throughout your lower body," says Sevene. "It requires you to generate more force and work through a fuller range of motion, from your ankles to your hip flexors and arms."

That extra effort pays off: Several studies have found that running on sand consumes more energy than running on asphalt--burning 1.6 times more calories per mile. There's also much less impact force when you run on sand. The dry, soft stuff is the kindest to the legs. But it's also much harder to run in, making 10-minute miles feel like speedwork. Because of the added difficulty, your first beach runs of the summer should be done in running shoes in the hard, wet sand next to the water.

On that harder-packed surface, the rules of road-running form apply--keep your head up and your back comfortably straight, and land midfoot. But the poor traction of soft sand forces you to run more on the balls of your feet, lean your body farther forward, and drive your knees and arms higher.

The Bare Facts

Yet, for many of us, the experience of running on the beach isn't complete unless we lose the shoes entirely. Ken Bob Saxton, famous for running marathons sans shoes, leads barefoot group runs on Southern California's Sunset Beach. Saxton admits there are pitfalls to running shoeless on the beach. "I've cut myself stepping on bamboo and also on a stingray," he says. But running barefoot on the sand allows your feet to move through their natural range of motion--without the restrictions imposed by running shoes--which helps strengthen your feet and ankles even more.

Before you ditch the shoes at the beach, however, Saxton recommends doing some trail running (in shoes) to strengthen your ankles. Then limit your first barefoot run to just 20 minutes in the firmer wet sand to build strength in your lower legs, ankles, and feet. You can add five minutes at a time as you get used to the new surface. Veteran beach runners, who've built up their lower-body strength, can try the soft sand for short speed workouts.

Why not join out Pilates Mat Classes?

2011-11-19T06:48:00.000-08:00

Each hour long pilates mat session is ran at the Northwest Pilates and Yoga Studio in St Helens and can host up to eight participants.

The STOTT PILATES mat class is great for beginners or those returning to exercise, incorporating the five basic principles. You will build core strength-the foundation of stability in exercises in order to progress. This pilates mat class is designed to rebalance the body, bringing it into correct alignment, improving posture and body function. Your STOTT PILATES Mat teacher will use a variety of props and small equipment to target different muscle fibres, and add an element of fun as well as challenge to this classical pilates mat workout.

Pilates Mat classes are graded (see timetable) from beginner through to advance. Mat classes utilise small props such as arc barrel, bosu, foam rollers, pilates magic circles and bands to make the workouts more engaging and dynamic.

"Have been going to the Pilates class for a couple of years now, and find it to be an enjoyable challenge mentally & physically, and it gives you a great sense of well being after each session. Since I have been going to the class my back pain has been greatly reduced, and my strength and posture have been improved dramatically through the expert tuition of Nisha." - Client Andrew Spencer

You'll be taken through a challenging, full body workout designed to strengthen core stability, lengthen muscles and increase flexibility in this pilates matwork class. The Pilates mat class is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and pilates mat exerciseprinciples are incorporated in the classes. The pilates mat exercises are adaptable to any fitness level, and it is nice to focus on learning the basics correctly without having to get friendly with new exercise equipment at the same time. The Pilates mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

Pilates Workshops for Pilates Enthusiasts with Ex-Marine Paul Thornly.

2011-11-19T06:47:00.000-08:00

STOTT PILATES education and certification programs empower instructors to motivate, challenge and retain clients long term.

Often referred to as the "Ivy League" school of Pilates, STOTT PILATES provides you with the depth of knowledge and practical programming options to teach effective group or personal training programs to clients of any age or fitness level - from post-rehabilitation patients to elite athletes.

It's just one of the reasons our graduates are in high demand worldwide.

Education & Certification
Hosted in St. Helens, United Kingdom

Upcoming Training Courses

course IMP

Intensive Mat-Plus

level 1, 40 hours

spring 2012 | May 14-18 | May 21-23 | 10am-3:30pm

course IR

Intensive Reformer

level 1, 50 hours

fall 2011 | Oct 17-21 | Oct 24-28 | 10am-3:30pm

Continuing Education Workshops

date

workshop

time

Sun Apr 10

Toning Ball Workout

10am-12pm

Sun Apr 10

Pilates for Men

12:30pm-2:30pm

Sun Apr 10

Reformer for Men

2:30pm-4:30pm

Sat Oct 29

Pilates with Props, levels 1 & 2

10am-2pm

Sat Oct 29

Intensifying Essential Reformer

2:30pm-4:30pm

A written & practical exam is required for certification exam may be taken within six months of completing course(s)

Space is limited! To register or for costs and additional information regarding these courses, contact Karen Banting at 0800 328 5676 or email: karen.banting@merrithew.com

Whats New In Core Stability Training?

2011-11-19T06:46:00.000-08:00

I visited LIW 2012 (Leisure Industry Week) at Birmingham NEC last week. It's the who's who of product services for the leisure and recreational businesses in the UK.

Everything from fast food, coffee, theme park design and exercise were catered for. A variety and demonstration of interesting lectures were also available.

Functional training workouts were big on the agenda with an emphasis on climbing, tri-plane movement, multi-directional and traditional eastern European training, both children and adults were catered for. Reebok stole the day with in your face choreography, bright colours, great marketing, DJ spinning and a variety of great climbing equipment for the new era of freestyle functional training which is now the fashion.

Gone are the days of static gym equipment, old fashioned one dimensional gym machines. In are back to basics training using the great outdoors and the body as a whole. I tried everything from walking in an air vacuum on a treadmill, to palm tree climbing, to fancy foot spinning and whirling machines.

STOTTPILATES also held very strongly with their amazing products and contemporary approach to mind body exercise and rehabilitation.

Nordic Walking This Weekend Rainhill to Pexhill

2011-11-19T06:45:00.000-08:00

Nordic Walking This Weekend Rainhill to Pexhill

Sunday 25th September

10am-12am

Meet Manor Farm Car Park,proceed on Foot to Pex Hill

£6 Walk including Pole Hire

£3 bring your own Poles

What is Nordic Walking ?

Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking - it makes something we can all do.... twice as effective!

Nordic Walking uses poles to in order to add two major benefits to walking

· The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs
· The poles help to propel the walker along - this means he/she works harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!

Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique and is not to be confused with trekking, hill walking or trail running as the poles are not planted in front of the walker/runner but in a specific way that increases the use of the upper body. It can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing.

Nordic Walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world and is used by individuals, personal trainers, health clubs, physiotherapists, doctors and health promoters because it is highly effective, affordable and FUN!

Nordic Walking technique MUST be learnt correctly if the participant is to get the most out of the activity - the full Health technique that ensures the whole body works efficiently is only taught by NWUK qualified Instructors.

Physical Benefits

· Tones the upper and lower body at the same time
· Uses 90% of the skeletal muscles
· Burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking
· Reduces the pressure on knees and joints
· Great for the Heart and Lungs
· Ideal for neck, shoulder and back problems
· Poles propel the walker along, making it easier to move faster then normal without feeling the effort.

· It is one of the most effective cross training techniques for athletes and sportspeople who require ultimate cardiovascular and endurance conditioning.

Other Benefits

· Can be done anywhere - no need for hills, country paths or even snow!
· It appeals to all ages and fitness levels.
· No need to wear special exercise clothing
· It's very sociable;participants can chat as they go!
· It is easy to learn and to keep up.
· It combines exercise with the nature which has been proven to boost mood.

New Candle Light Pilates Classes

2011-11-19T06:44:00.000-08:00

Northwest Pilates and Yoga Centre presents its very own Candlelight Pilates class where members get to workout in candlelight. A soothing environment that calms the mind, soothes the soul and allowing for absolute focus in honing one's body.

Candlelight pilates classes are ideal for the autumn/winter nights.

Monday 8.30 - 9.30pm (Level 2 Reformer)

Wednesday 7.30 - 8.30pm (Level 1/2 Pilates Mat)

Thursday 8.30 - 9.30pm (Level 1 Reformer)

Friday 6.00 - 7.00pm (Level 2 Reformer)

4 Week Reformer Course - £40.99, 4 Week Mat Course - £24.87

Kate Moss Eat Your Heart Out In Berlin

2011-08-25T08:42:00.000-07:00

Kate Moss Eat Your Heart Out In Berlin

Over the past decade, Berlin's become a pillar of the fashion, Art, Design and music worlds, not just keeping up with, but setting new trends. A global influx of creative's has turned it into a cauldron of cultural cool that's often compared to New York in the '80's. What draw them is Berlins legendary of tolerance, openness and experimentation infused with an edgy undercurrent that gives this eternally unfinished city its street cred.

I went to Berlin to study the new expansion system GYROKINESIS® and Yoga, The diversity and expression of the city was greatly expressed in these art forms. Kate Moss lookalike Anke Hauerstein led me through the GYROKINESIS® Pre training. Anke is a former dancer and studied in New York at the Martha Graham School Of Contemporary Dance.

What is GYROKINESIS®
A movement system that gently works the entire body opening energy pathways through rhythmic, spiraling movements. Fluid movements that feel like dance are smoothly and harmoniously connected through the use of breath, utilizing low stools and mats. All fitness levels, from novice to professional, can benefit from this system

Berlin Art Attack View my latest photos
Stencils, Paste-ups, Throw-ups, Burners, Bombings, Pieces, Murals, Installations and 3-d Graffiti are the magic words in street art, Describing styles and techniques that have little to do with vandalism, tagging and illegal scrawls. With no shortage of vacant buildings, weedy lots and artists of all stripes sometimes it seems as though all of Berlin has become a canvas. Some of the hottest names in street art have left their mark on local walls, including Banksy, Os Gemeos, Romero, Swoon, Flix. Pure Evil, Miss Van and Italian artist blu

Social Networks
Next time you come to class check in using the Facebook or Foursquare Apps.

What Is Yoga?

2011-08-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

Yoga Drop In Classes (Paid on night to Teacher)

St Helens United Reformed Church
King Street
St Helens
Merseyside
WA10 1BQ

Wednesdays 6:30 - 8:00pm, Cost £7.00, Level 1 & 2

Thursdays 6:30 - 7:30pm, Cost £5.00 Level 1

What Is Yoga?

The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated. We can think of the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit.

What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses.

Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.

Yoga Poses
Many people think that yoga is just stretching. But while stretching is certainly involved, yoga is really about creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. This is done through the performance of poses or postures, each of which has specific physical benefits. The poses can be done quickly in succession, creating heat in the body through movement (vinyasa-style yoga) or more slowly to increase stamina and perfect the alignment of the pose. The poses are a constant, but the approach to them varies depending on the tradition in which the teacher has trained.

Yoga Practice
Yoga teachers will often refer to "your practice," which means your individual experience with yoga as it develops over time. The amazing thing about yoga is that your practice is always evolving and changing, so it never gets boring. Although the poses themselves do not change, your relationship to them will. Anyone can start a yoga practice, even if you don't feel like you are very flexible or very strong. These things will develop over time. Another great thing about thinking about "your practice" is that it encourages the noncompetitive spirit of yoga. One of the most difficult, but ultimately most liberating things about yoga is letting go of the ego and accepting that no one is better than anyone else. Everyone is just doing their best on any given day.

Yoga Classes
In addition to practicing the poses, yoga classes may also include instruction on breathing, call and response chanting, meditation, or an inspirational reading by the teacher. The variety and amount of this will depend on the individual teacher and the yoga tradition in which he or she has trained. Typically, a yoga class at a gym will be more focused on the purely physical benefits of yoga, while one at a yoga center may delve more into the spiritual side. Some people find that the physical practice of yoga becomes a gateway into a spiritual exploration, while others just enjoy a wonderful low-impact workout that makes them feel great. Whatever your tendency, you will be able to find a yoga class that suits your style.

Nordic Walking Visits Anthony Gomley Statues

2011-08-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Sunday 7th August, 10:00am - 12:00am Crosby Lakeside Adventure Center

Cost £6 (Including pole hire)

£3 (Bring your own poles)

Schedule:

10:00am : Meet at Carpark, Set poles up & Warm up

10:30am : Proceed to sand dunes practicing technique and drills

11:15am : Nordic walking on the beach (barefoot option)

11:45am : Nordic walk back to Carpark

(Total Duration: 2hrs)

Click Here for directions

Limited Spaces subject to pole availability

Nordic walking is an exciting new outdoor walking technique using specially designed walking poles.

It is one of the fastest growing recreational fitness sports in the world.

Come and try it. Book a Nordic Walking club training session with us where you can learn the first four stages which will get you safely and comfortably walking with the poles. Nordic walking club sessions last two hours and the price of £6 per person includes hire of the Gabel Nordic Walking poles.

Call 01744-751115 for details of when and where the next session will be.

For the general exerciser, Nordic Walking burns on average 20% more calories than normal walking at the same speed, plus most people find it makes walking more comfortable*

More calories burnt, for less effort

* Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. 73 (3), 296-300. September 2002

Originating from summer training for cross-country skiers, Nordic Walking works your upper and lower body at the same time. It strengthens the back, legs and arms, and reduces neck and shoulder tension - all this while improving the health of your heart and lungs.

You can gain all these health benefits, and more, while Nordic Walking with your friends.

Exercise intensity is determined by upper body effort so people of differing fitness levels can walk and talk together, while working to their own level with Nordic Walking.

There are three levels to Nordic Walking, how far you want to take it depends on your level of physical condition and your aims.

The different levels and individual programmes are appropriate for rehabilitation, health purposes, weight management, improving physical condition, relaxing and recovering.

Level 1 for Health

Level 2 for Fitness

Level 3 for Sports

Using Gabel Nordic Walking poles strengthens the large muscles of the back that pull down the shoulder blades, significantly reducing neck and shoulder tension. Gabel Nordic Walking poles have specially designed straps (different from normal walking poles), which allow you to release the grip as you push forward. With good Nordic Walking technique squeezing and releasing the grip through the stride strengthens the muscles of the wrist and this can reduce symptoms of RSI (repetitive stress injury).

When Nordic Walking, the increased use of the upper body reduces the load on your knees, allowing you to exercise with much more comfort than normal walking or jogging.

Nordic Walking is an ideal cross-training exercise technique and addition to your regular programme. Scientific studies of high intensity Nordic Walking** have demonstrated heart rate levels reaching 75% of maximal values while participants were still walking. Running with Exel Nordic Walking poles allows you to turn up the intensity even further.

Try Nordic Walking while wearing a heart rate monitor. The lowered rate of perceived exertion (RPE) felt with Nordic Walking means you might be surprised at just how hard your heart is working, while you are feeling relatively comfortable. This whole body muscular activity, high heart rate response and yet lowered RPE found with Nordic Walking means you can work at a higher intensity, for longer and with more ease than in many other types of training techniques - ideal cross-training.

* Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport. 73 (3), 296-300. September 2002
** Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. 33 (5), S496. May 2001

Nordic Walking Barefoot

Leaving your footprints along a wet sandy beach is one of the purest pleasures of the summer. It also happens to be one of the best workouts. Even just a few beach runs strengthens your ankles, arches, and all other below-the-knee muscles more than running on harder surfaces. It's so good for you that coaching legend Bob Sevene encourages his Big Sur Distance Project elite runners to run, walk, and even do "hill" repeats on sand several times a week. "Running on sand develops power throughout your lower body," says Sevene. "It requires you to generate more force and work through a fuller range of motion, from your ankles to your hip flexors and arms."

That extra effort pays off: Several studies have found that running on sand consumes more energy than running on asphalt--burning 1.6 times more calories per mile. There's also much less impact force when you run on sand. The dry, soft stuff is the kindest to the legs. But it's also much harder to run in, making 10-minute miles feel like speedwork. Because of the added difficulty, your first beach runs of the summer should be done in running shoes in the hard, wet sand next to the water.

On that harder-packed surface, the rules of road-running form apply--keep your head up and your back comfortably straight, and land midfoot. But the poor traction of soft sand forces you to run more on the balls of your feet, lean your body farther

Boutique Nordic Walking/Pilates/Yoga Retreat In Charante

2011-08-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

Boutique Yoga/Pilates/Nordic Walking Retreats In France

Friday 30th September - Sunday 2nd October 2011

Or

Friday 7th October - Sunday 9th October 2011

£195 all inclusive

Join Northwest Pilates & Yoga for wonderful Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreats in Southwest France. Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta... Plug in, renew and relax.

Pilates & Yoga on your Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreat

This will be a fun and energising Pilates Holiday & Yoga Retreat, suitable for practioners of all levels. Through a varied practice we will have the opportunity to explore Yoga/Pilates in its fuller sense. There are times in life when we need to let go, relax and unwind, others when we look to energise and reconnect with the bigger picture. Our moods, the stresses of life, the seasons and many other factors can affect how we feel. Pilates & Yoga enables people to detect and correct imbalances that relate to stress, nutrition, learning problems, minor injuries and other issues they meet in their daily life.

During this Pilates Holiday & Yoga Retreat week we will look at ways in which we can use our Yoga/Pilates to improve our everyday living. You will leave with restored energy levels, a renewed vibrancy and a relaxed mind and body. Reconnect with your inner light and experience body brightness.

You will do your daily Pilates & Yoga practice in an 8 x9 meter barn that has been beautifully transformed in to a Yoga studio with solid oak floors and a dramatic tented ceiling. Sunlight floods the space from three huge windows with panoramic views of the countryside.

Accommodation on your Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreat

Though decorated and furnished in a simple style, the finish and details gives each room a luxury feel. All rooms have views over the rolling countryside and windows covered with blue shutters. Fine, crisp bed linen and super soft towels are standard for every guest.

Food is very important at Les Passeroses and of course, healthy and delicious. All meals are home cooked and vegetarian.

Wine is available for purchase with dinner.

Alex has worked with food for nearly 20 years, firstly training to be a Chef in some of the best restaurants in Manchester and Cheshire including The Lime Tree and The Alderley Edge Hotel.

Food on your Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreats

He has also set up several kitchens and his own vegetarian food business.

There is a small kitchen area available for students to use where tea and coffee is provided.

A local English therapist Jan Randall will arrange appointments for her wonderful treatments. Jan offers blissful Aromatherapy Massages, Reflexology and Therapeutic Massage and hot stones!

Massage and Treatments on your Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreat

Our qualified English therapist, Jan, will meet your group to discuss individual needs and create a timetable of therapies. A short walk into the garden will bring you to her charming chalet, the interior painted in soothing blue.

You can choose from -

Aromatherapy Massage
Hot Stones
Deep Tissue Massage
Reflexology
Swedish Massage
Back and Shoulder Massage

Prices range from 28 to 55 euros.

Sample Timetable

Friday

3.00-6.00pm - Arrival & Lunch

7.00pm - Dinner

9.00-10.30pm-Yoga/Pilates by Candlelight

Saturday

8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class including morning meditation

10.15am-Breakfast Free Time - For Massage, walks, bike ride etc

2.00pm-Lunch Free Time-For Massage etc

4.00pm-Chai & Tiffin

5.00-7.00pm Yoga/Pilates Fusion class

7.30pm-Dinner

9.30pm -Yoga Nidra, Pranayama, Meditation

Sunday

8.00-10.00am - Fusion Flow class including morning meditation

What people said from our last trip.

"Exceptionally well organised and thought out weekend - the "themed" approach worked really well" - Mark & Sue Ashcroft

"Really enjoyed the Yoga, as very new to twin practice. Very challenging to the mind and body picked up a few new tips for my own Pilates teaching practice, Also I would integrate some of your Yoga into my classes" - Susanne Wharton

"The practice and meeting people of the same mindset" - Eileen Jackson

"Brilliant, Stretching, Confidence building and inspirational. The mix of single and partner work brings the best out of people and provides food for thought" - Shirley Deveney

"Fantastic - My body is more open and stretched I found it brilliantly valuable to be guided through the teaching theme of each session, Body and mind worked well together as a result" - Clare Sumner

"I thoroughly enjoyed the whole Yoga/Pilates aspect of the weekend the fusion of both was great the breathing was a good addition" - Tabitha Moses

"Delicious and very generous portions" - Emma & Tricia Buckle

"It was a really nice holistic weekend combining all the elements - Work, Relaxation, Teaching, Therapies and downtime. Everything was lovely" - Carl Powner

"Thought provoking, Relaxing, Not too strenuous, thoroughly enjoyed it. I was amazed at the things I could do, would never have thought some of them possible" - Julie Roscoe

"Relaxing in the group, Making new friends and achieving a higher level of fitness" - Isla Conaen

"Challenging exercise and good company" - Graham Williams

"Enjoyed the seamless mixture of both Pilates & Yoga, The varied levels of exercise, Teaching technique and good for the budget" - Olivia Greenberg

Nordic Walking Comes To St.Helens

2011-07-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

What is it?

Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking - it makes something we can all do.... twice as effective!

Nordic Walking uses poles to in order to add two major benefits to walking

* The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs
* The poles help to propel the walker along - this means he/she works harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!

Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique and is not to be confused with trekking, hill walking or trail running as the poles are not planted in front of the walker/runner but in a specific way that increases the use of the upper body. It can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing.

Nordic Walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world and is used by individuals, personal trainers, health clubs, physiotherapists, doctors and health promoters because it is highly effective, affordable and FUN!

Nordic Walking technique MUST be learnt correctly if the participant is to get the most out of the activity - the full Health technique that ensures the whole body works efficiently is only taught by NWUK qualified Instructors.

Physical Benefits

* Tones the upper and lower body at the same time
* Uses 90% of the skeletal muscles
* Burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking
* Reduces the pressure on knees and joints
* Great for the Heart and Lungs
* Ideal for neck, shoulder and back problems
* Poles propel the walker along, making it easier to move faster then normal without feeling the effort.
* It is one of the most effective cross training techniques for athletes and sportspeople who require ultimate cardiovascular and endurance conditioning.

Other Benefits

* Can be done anywhere - no need for hills, country paths or even snow!
* It appeals to all ages and fitness levels.
* No need to wear special exercise clothing
* It's very sociable;participants can chat as they go!
* It is easy to learn and to keep up.
* It combines exercise with the nature which has been proven to boost mood.

Pilates For Cage Fighters

2011-07-18T06:51:00.000-07:00

Recently former Cage Fighter and gym owner Steve McFarlane of www.jabandgrab.co.uk visited our studio for assistance with his back and Core Stability. Steve is presently on the 6 week starter package with Jane Grogan.

Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full contact combat sport that allows a wide variety of fighting techniques, from a mixture of martial arts traditions, to be used in competitions. The rules allow the use of striking and grappling techniques, both while standing and on the ground.

So where does the cage come in, making this sound like the dirtiest kind of back alley entertainment? (Or am I just confusing this with cage dancing, which can be found in varying forms of seediness at any number of nightclubs?)

Now I get it, it's basically two guys in boxing shorts, doing what looks more or less like street fighting in a large cage, surrounded by onlookers. In a nightclub (or parking lot), the crowd stands around. At an official event, they buy seats.

Clearly, we're behind the curve. The New York Times ran an article in 2005 about cage fighting, reporting it alive and kicking in the Midwest (but banned in some slightly more civilised places, like New York). It takes place in parking lots, fairgrounds and small arenas. The fighters might train everyday, but they're regular guys, just slightly tougher.

Back on our home turf, I find an article from Time Out London, reporting that cage fighting "not as fearsome as it sounds".

From what I can tell, the large events (like the Cage Rage series, many of which have been held at Wembly since 2002) are just another form of professional fighting, and probably not that fearsome. But the ones from nightclubs and in parking lots?

Steve McFarlane (Proprietor, Head Trainer)

Steve started training in the art of Wing Chun from the age of 15 and achieved a high level within 4 years. At 19 he progressed into Thai Boxing and made the transition to MMA over 10 years ago. Steve has also trained in boxing since the age of 15. Over the years he has gained recognised qualifications as a personal trainer, fitness instructor and a wealth of MMA experience. Steve also has on his team assistant trainers for Thai Boxing, Boxing and all other Martial Arts disciplines.

Dynamic Pilates Reformer Hits St.Helens

2011-07-08T06:09:00.000-07:00

Dynamic Pilates Reformer Hits St.Helens

Special July Offer 2 Beginners Classes, Cost £14

Must be taken on a Wednesday or Thursday at 8:30pm within July.

Dynamic pilates:

Dynamic Pilates differs from Pilates because it uses a reformer machine. It's faster, more fun and is more of a cardio vascular workout. It's more interesting using poles, dumbells and boxing. There are just a lot more options and is normally a class of 10. Niko Agieri is a personal trainer and runs Dynamic Pilates classes using the "reformer machine." His classes are fun, versatile and always tough. He has trained celebrity clients such as Natalia Imbruglia, Holly Branson and Davinia Taylor. Good for ages 16-60 but not frail, elderly or people with serious back problems. He tends to have women of 25-45 in classes but men often think it's really easy but it's tough. Niko thinks it's the best all over body workout he has ever done. 55 mins of continuous variety and a test for the whole body. It is mostly available in London and big cities.

How Power Pilates fixed my bad back
(The Sunday Times,January 12, 2008)

I used to think there was nothing more dull than people complaining about back pain. Lie down, take a pill, have a rest, how bad can it be? And then, for reasons too boring and complicated to go into here, about two years ago I hurt my back. Talk about divine retribution. Suddenly I had to sit down to sneeze, or at the very least grab hold of a wall. If I missed my footing in the street I was doubled over in agony.

Worst of all, I was unable to exercise in any serious capacity: couldn't run, couldn't cycle, couldn't even do yoga any more. For a person who used to take her fitness quite seriously, this was depressing to say the least. Not only was I missing out on all those lovely endorphins, I was struggling to control my weight. And friends and family had to put up with my grouchiness (constant low-level pain does that to you) and general inability to unload the dishwasher (OK, there are some advantages).

Needless to say, I tried everything in my quest to fix the thing: osteopathy (cranial and ordinary), physiotherapy, special mattresses, Ayurvedic oils, heat packs, acupuncture, industrial-strength painkillers. All had their merits; but none was conclusive.

Then, last summer, on one of my many visits to a physiotherapist, I was given an ultrasound. For whatever reason, the muscles in my lower abdomen were almost nonexistent, shrivelled and weak. This, the therapist surmised, could be a significant part of the problem. She thought that I should try to address the problem from within, as it were, and recommended Pilates. I knew that Pilates could help a bad back; indeed I had done a lot of it before, as part of my general fitness regimen. I resolved to find a class and get started as soon as possible.

A few days later, I was out for supper when an author friend of mine, a slim, tall blonde with a perfect bottom, started talking about her new Pilates regimen, a regimen that, she assured me, was responsible for the fabulous behind. This was not just ordinary, church-hall Pilates, though, but something called Power Pilates. All the celebs were at it, apparently: Liz Hurley, Jennifer Aniston, Teri Hatcher, Christy Turlington. Aha, I thought. I scribbled down the number of the gym she went to and the following morning made the call.

The difference between Power Pilates - or Dynamic Pilates, as it is sometimes called - and ordinary Pilates is the reformer bed. This is a peculiar-looking contraption (below) consisting of a flat, sliding cushion on which you lie, a series of springs and two pulleys with hoops on the ends. The springs provide varying levels of resistance, and the hoops can be slipped over feet or hands to perform the strengthening and lengthening exercises that characterise this method.

As a Power Pilates novice, I had no concept of what I was letting myself in for. My friend had warned me that it might be hard at first - impossible would have been more appropriate - but David Higgins, the instructor and owner of the West London studio Ten Pilates, was used to this. After my first hour-long class, in the company of several other frighteningly fit women (never more than ten per class), during which I was all over the place (it was thanks only to his watchful eye that I didn't do myself a serious mischief), he suggested that, given my back problems, I ought to have a few one-to-one sessions before trying another class.

My first remedial session was more successful. Slowly, and with extreme caution, I began to familiarise myself with the machine. It is a very clever device indeed. It allows you to focus on small muscle groups, restricting the range of movement so that you can isolate and strengthen problem areas and I was horrified to discover that my left side, which is where most of my back pain is focused, was significantly weaker than my right. I couldn't see it myself, but it was obvious to Higgins: my whole body had begun to go wonky in its attempts to bypass the inflammation. Our first priority was, quite literally, to straighten me out.

He went easy on me for our first few sessions, then, seeing that I had grasped the basics, he began training me for real. Never, not even in the days when I used to take regular Spinning classes and tie myself up in knots in yoga, have I experienced a more challenging workout. Because of the way the machine works, every single exercise engages the core muscles. It brings a sheen to your brow just holding the thing steady; when you then add weights or resistance, you find yourself breaking out into a proper sweat. By the time Higgins has finished with you, you're taking your air in gulps.

To cut a long story short, my first 10 to 15 classes were murder. The most I could manage were two sessions a week, and I ached badly in between. At home, between sessions, I did basic mat work. Then, the stuff that I had thought was physically impossible became merely fiendishly difficult; then distinctly possible; and finally, easy. At which point, of course, Higgins stepped in, upped the resistance on my springs and made it all hard again. When I protested, he smiled and turned the music up. Good job too, given my language.

Now I go three times a week, sometimes four. It has not completely cured my back pain, but I reckon it has reduced it by about 80 per cent. It just hurts in the mornings, when I'm stiff from lying in bed, and late at night, when I'm tired. Thrillingly, I can get back into all my prebaby clothes (well, almost) and wear high heels again. It's been a long slog; but worth it.

2011-07-08T06:04:00.000-07:00

Refresh, Review & Revitalise With Our Yoga/Pilates Retreats.
Friday 30th September - Sunday 2nd October 2011
Or
Friday 7th October - Sunday 9th October 2011
£195 All inclusive

I have just returned from running my 2nd Yoga/Pilates Retreat at www.passeroses.com, in the wine valleys of Charante. The weather was glorious and i took 15 Yogis and Yoginis, most of whom had never met before. We had a mixed level of ability from beginner to advanced. The special part about the weekend was the amount of solo people who attended and how everyone mixed well and bonded together as a team. Read our schedule on www.yogaretreatsfrance.com

Book your flight now www.ryanair.com

View our latest French Retreat pictures on Flickr

I have now booked 2 further dates for September and October, If you wish to come along "Go for it". Don't worry about coming alone or not knowing anyone as we all unite as a family.

Comments from May 2011 :

"Exceptionally well organised and thought out weekend - the "themed" approach worked really well" - Mark & Sue Ashcroft

"Really enjoyed the Yoga, As very new to twin practice. Very challenging to the mind and body picked up a few new tips for my own Pilates teaching practice, Also i would integrate some of your Yoga into my classes" - Susanne Wharton

"The practice and meeting people of the same mindset" - Eileen Jackson

"Brilliant, Stretching, Confidence building and inspirational. The mix of single and partner work brings the best out of people and provides food for thought" - Shirlie Deveney

"Fantastic - My body is more open and stretched i found it brilliantly valuable to be guided through the teaching theme of each session, Body and mind worked well together as a result" - Clare Sumner

"i thoroughly enjoyed the whole Yoga/Pilates aspect of the weekend the fusion of both was great the breathing was a good addition" - Tabitha Moses

"Delicious and very generous portions" - Emma & Tricia Buckle

"It was a really nice holistic weekend combining all the elements - Work, Relaxation, Teaching, Therapies and downtime. Everything was lovely" - Carl Powner

"Thought provoking, Relaxing, Not too strenuous, Thoroughly enjoyed it. I was amazed at the things i could do, would never have thought some of them possible" - Julie Roscoe

"Relaxing in the group, Making new friends and achieving a higher level of fitness" - Isla Conaen

"Challenging exercise and good company" - Graham Williams

"Enjoyed the seamless mixture of both Pilates & Yoga, The varied levels of excercise, Teaching technique and good for the budget" - Olivia Greenberg

Nordic Walking Comes To St.Helens

2011-07-08T06:02:00.000-07:00

Schedule:
Warm up and introduction to using the poles at Manor Farm public house carpark
Proceed from Manor Farm through the back feilds to The Dream
Drills and techniques around The Dream
Return on foot back to Manor Farm
(Total Duration: 2hrs)

What is it?

Nordic Walking is an enhancement of ordinary walking - it makes something we can all do.... twice as effective!

Nordic Walking uses poles to in order to add two major benefits to walking

* The use of poles means the upper body muscles are used as well as the legs
* The poles help to propel the walker along - this means he/she works harder than usual yet the support given by the poles makes it feel easier!

Nordic Walking is a specific fitness technique and is not to be confused with trekking, hill walking or trail running as the poles are not planted in front of the walker/runner but in a specific way that increases the use of the upper body. It can be done by anybody, anywhere and does not require expensive equipment or clothing.

Nordic Walking is the fastest growing fitness activity in the world and is used by individuals, personal trainers, health clubs, physiotherapists, doctors and health promoters because it is highly effective, affordable and FUN!

Nordic Walking technique MUST be learnt correctly if the participant is to get the most out of the activity - the full Health technique that ensures the whole body works efficiently is only taught by NWUK qualified Instructors.

Physical Benefits

* Tones the upper and lower body at the same time
* Uses 90% of the skeletal muscles
* Burns up to 46% more calories than ordinary walking
* Reduces the pressure on knees and joints
* Great for the Heart and Lungs
* Ideal for neck, shoulder and back problems
* Poles propel the walker along, making it easier to move faster then normal without feeling the effort.
* It is one of the most effective cross training techniques for athletes and sportspeople who require ultimate cardiovascular and endurance conditioning.

Other Benefits

* Can be done anywhere - no need for hills, country paths or even snow!
* It appeals to all ages and fitness levels.
* No need to wear special exercise clothing
* It's very sociable;participants can chat as they go!
* It is easy to learn and to keep up.
* It combines exercise with the nature which has been proven to boost mood.

In Times of Economic Crisis, People Turn to Yoga

2011-06-02T05:09:00.000-07:00

As layoffs loom and pensions plummet, more people are unrolling their yoga mats and polishing their poses to find flexibility and sanity amid the financial chaos.

Fitness experts say gym memberships are holding steady, or rising, and yoga classes are thriving.

"The economy may have taken a downturn, but attendance in our yoga classes has grown," said Jess Gronholm, National Yoga Coordinator for the Crunch health club chain.

"A yoga practice becomes a refuge from the negativity of an economic recession, and the studio becomes the sanctuary," said Gronholm, whose employer has over 100,000 gym members in five U.S. states.

Yoga, which originated in India, uses movement and postures to strengthen the body and breathing techniques and meditation to quiet the mind.

Gronholm believes the 5,000-year-old practice is just the ticket in these belt-tightening, nail-biting times, when banks aren't lending, consumers aren't buying, and experts are calling the latest economic numbers terrifying.

"At the very least members can come in and 'take a break' from whatever else may be going on in their lives. And at the very most, a practice can become a transformational experience that reenergizes and rejuvenates you," Gronholm said.

A recent Roper poll, commissioned by Yoga Journal, found that 11 million Americans do yoga occasionally and 6 million perform it regularly.

Pilates Beach Body workout with Sue Ashcroft

2011-06-02T05:02:00.000-07:00

WANT TO FEEL FANTASTIC in your bathing suit this summer? Then now is the time to tap into the transformative power of Pilates. Developed for dancers, this total-body strengthening and stretching system creates long, lean lines and a strong center by combining technique, alignment, and breath to fire up your abdominal muscles while you're targeting other areas of your body.

If you want fast results, look no further. "Pilates moves feel good, and they deliver a quick return" ,says Michelle Dozois, co-owner of Breakthru Fitness Personal Training and Pilates Studio in Pasadena, Calif., who designed this at-home workout for NATURAL HEALTH readers. "Follow the principles of precision and control along with breathing and mental focus, and you'll see your muscles become strong, firm, and toned in no time."

The trick is to concentrate on doing every rep as if it's the only one you'll ever do. Each movement is designed to simultaneously lengthen and strengthen the working muscles while challenging the abs and spinal muscles as you strive to maintain balance. You'll get a workout for your mind and your muscles, along with a body that, come summer, you won't want to cover up.
Toss that sarong: We've got the ultimate workout to help you slip on a bikini with confidence. "Each of these exercises targets at least three major muscle groups -- so you train smarter, not longer,"

says Rael Isacowitz, a Pilates specialist and exercise physiologist based in Costa Mesa, California.

The Result: Swimsuit-worthy abs, plus sleeker arms, butt, and thighs. Do this workout twice a week for 60 minutes (complete the entire series of exercises twice), then add another 15 minutes of high-intensity cardio.

To boost the challenge, use light weights where indicated. Include two 45- to 60-minute cardio sessions on your off days and follow a healthy diet, and in just four weeks you'll be sitting poolside with pride.

About Sue Ashcroft

Sue has been practicing Pilates for 8 years. As a busy mother of 3 she has seen the benefits that this discipline brings - toned muscles, good posture, and better self image that add a zest to everyday life. She is passionate that everyone, whatever their age and level of fitness can benefit from Pilates .Sue is a student teacher at the U.K STOTT PILATES headquarters in Oxford.

•August - October 2010: Stott Pilates Intensive Reformer Course
•April 2010: Stott Pilates Intensive MatPlus Course (Final Module), Oxford
•March 2010: Stott Pilates Intensive MatPlus Course (Postural Analysis and Intermediate Matwork), Oxford
•February 2010: Stott Pilates Intensive MatPlus Course (Basic Principles and Essential Matwork), Oxford
•January 2010: Essential Anatomy, Intelligent Fitness, Oxford
•December 2009: Analysis of Human Movement, Intelligent Fitness, Oxford
•November 2009: Foundations of Anatomy, Intelligent Fitness, Oxford

The secret to that derriere: Pippa Middleton reveals Pilates classes are 'weekly necessity

2011-05-23T05:38:00.000-07:00

Ever since Pippa Middleton glided confidently down the aisle of Westminster Abbey holding Catherine's train, the world has been fixated. More specifically, her toned figure has been one of the hottest Royal Wedding talking points since the event last month. Now Pippa has revealed that the secret to her great shape is weekly Pilates sessions. The brunette attends classes at a small studio in Parson's Green near her London apartment. Miss Middleton claims the exercise has helped improve her core stability and posture - which explains her elongated frame and natural poise on the big day.

The 27-year-old hailed the studio a 'weekly necessity'. In a testimonial on the fitness centre's website, she wrote: 'As someone who is always 'on the go', Pilates has been a wonderful escape from my busy lifestyle in London. Miss Middleton also reveals that the routines help her relax - a useful tool for calming pre-wedding nerves.

She wrote: 'Whether it's 7am in the morning or 7pm at night I always leave feeling calm, refreshed and invigorated. 'Over the past few months I have noticed a huge difference in my core strength and posture and couldn't recommend Margot more highly as an instructor. 'From breathing techniques, muscle toning to overall flexibility and relaxation, my Pilates sessions have become something of a weekly necessity that keeps me fit, happy and energized.'

The party planner, who works for her parents' company Party Pieces, has always been a fan of exercise, gaining a sports scholarship at exclusive boarding school Marlborough College. While Pilates is a great way to tone it doesn't get the heart rate going so she teams the classes with regular cardio workouts including swimming, jogging, tennis and skiing.

Refresh, Review & Revitalise With Our Yoga/Pilates Retreats.

2011-05-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from running my 2nd Yoga/Pilates Retreat at www.passeroses.com, in the wine valleys of Charante. The weather was glorious and i took 15 Yogis and Yoginis, most of whom had never met before. We had a mixed level of ability from beginner to advanced. The special part about the weekend was the amount of solo people who attended and how everyone mixed well and bonded together as a team.

View our latest French Retreat pictures on Flickr

I have now booked 2 further dates for September and October, If you wish to come along "Go for it". Don't worry about coming alone or not knowing anyone as we all unite as a family.

Comments from May 2011 :

"Exceptionally well organised and thought out weekend - the "themed" approach worked really well" - Mark & Sue Ashcroft

"Really enjoyed the Yoga, As very new to twin practice. Very challenging to the mind and body picked up a few new tips for my own Pilates teaching practice, Also i would integrate some of your Yoga into my classes" - Susanne Wharton

"The practice and meeting people of the same mindset" - Eileen Jackson

"Brilliant, Stretching, Confidence building and inspirational. The mix of single and partner work brings the best out of people and provides food for thought" - Shirlie Deveney

"Fantastic - My body is more open and stretched i found it brilliantly valuable to be guided through the teaching theme of each session, Body and mind worked well together as a result" - Clare Sumner

"i thoroughly enjoyed the whole Yoga/Pilates aspect of the weekend the fusion of both was great the breathing was a good addition" - Tabitha Moses

"Delicious and very generous portions" - Emma & Tricia Buckle

"It was a really nice holistic weekend combining all the elements - Work, Relaxation, Teaching, Therapies and downtime. Everything was lovely" - Carl Powner
Morning Class

"Thought provoking, Relaxing, Not too strenuous, Thoroughly enjoyed it. I was amazed at the things i could do, would never have thought some of them possible" - Julie Roscoe

"Relaxing in the group, Making new friends and achieving a higher level of fitness" - Isla Conaen

"Challenging exercise and good company" - Graham Williams

"Enjoyed the seamless mixture of both Pilates & Yoga, The varied levels of excercise, Teaching technique and good for the budget" - Olivia Greenberg

Pilates for a Beach-Ready Body

2011-05-23T05:35:00.001-07:00

New Beginners & Pregnancy YogaNew Beginners & Pregnancy Yoga

2011-05-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

Whether you're a Yoga beginner, or a fan who wants to adapt familiar exercises to suit your pregnancy, we have all you need to know. Find out about the different yoga styles that are safe for you to practise - as well as which styles aren't safe. We have advice on how to learn relaxation techniques, and on how to focus your mind so you can do yoga meditation. Breathing exercises, along with yoga postures, will benefit the health of you and your growing baby.

Yoga can help women get through their pregnancy with minimal discomfort. It also helps the birth and post-delivery stages.

Independent midwife Manijeh Nedas says: 'In my experience, I believe that yoga plays a very important role in pregnancy. Generally, pregnant mums who do yoga exercises appear healthier, both in mind and body. Their bodies are more flexible, which enables them to adapt to various positions when in labour and the ligaments are more elastic, which in turn can help to reduce labour pain.'

Andrea Fox, an antenatal Yoga teacher in Sommerset, says that Yoga classes help to boost circulation and also help with fluid retention. The stretching exercises relieve aches and pains.

Posture is also improved by yoga and this can help ease back problems, which are common in pregnant women. She adds: 'Yoga helps to prepare for the birth - it encourages breath and body awareness, reduces worry and teaches women to adapt to new situations.'

And Yoga continues to have benefits after pregnancy, too. Postnatal Yoga, which can be started about six weeks after the birth, strengthens abdominal muscles and your pelvic floor. It also helps you to get back to your pre-pregnancy shape faster.

Starting yoga

If you have never tried yoga before, you should start by taking classes to learn the poses under supervision.

Jenny Pretor-Pinney, yoga teacher and owner of 'The Yoga Place' in East London says that it is good for pregnant women to practice on their own, but only what they have been shown in class.

But if you are already familiar with yoga, there are several books and videos around that contain detailed explanation on how to do the best asanas at home such as 'Preparing for birth with yoga' by Janet Balaskas.

There are several types of Yoga such as Hatha, which is the traditional form, Kundalini, which works with the glandular and nervous system, Ivengar, which gives attention to muscular-skeletal alignment and Ashtanga, which includes a lot of movement. Pregnant women should talk to their yoga teacher to find out exactly what type they should do.

Safety guidelines

Starting Yoga is no different to starting any other form of exercise - the same advice applies. If you are not used to regular exercise then you should start slowly. If in doubt consult your doctor or midwife.

According to Andrea Fox, any position which feels uncomfortable should be left out. Ms Fox points out: 'Lying on the front soon becomes inappropriate. Strong back bends are to be avoided, as are postures that involve using the tummy muscles strongly, such as the boat pose, or supine leg rising. Any posture involving balance should be tackled with great care.'

Mothers-to-be should pay attention not to overstretch the body - the ligaments around the joints become loose and soft during pregnancy. The abdomen should stay relaxed at all times.

No kind of pain or nausea should be felt during or after yoga. If this happens, you should stop exercising and contact your GP or midwife.

V2 Max Plus™ Reformer - STOTT PILATES Reformer Machines

2011-05-02T05:19:00.000-07:00

Location: Northwest Pilates & Yoga Centre

Session Length: 60 minute session

Class Size: Six participants

View our new timetable Click Here

Despite the somewhat medieval name, the STOTTPILATES Reformer machine is actually an amazingly elegant machine. The STOTTPILATES Reformer provides finely tuned exercise resistance that allows one to work very precisely to develop good alignment, core strength, and flexibility.

There are many styles of Reformer Machines. The Reformer Machine pictured here is the V2 Max Plus™ Reformer made by STOTTPILATES. Some Reformer Machines are wood and some are metal. There might be leather straps or ropes, and the Reformer may be on legs or not. Nevertheless, the basic parts and their functions will be the same. You will feel much more comfortable at your first Reformer class if you take a moment to look over the reformer and get a sense how it works. The height of the foot-bar is adjusted with the gear system. There will be two to four notches on the inside of the frame that will allow you to adjust the height of the foot-bar. Your instructor will help you figure out which is best for you

The springs provide resistance from the machine. The rest of the resistance is provided by your own body weight. The springs hook on the spring bar, and different springs can be unhooked to increase or decrease the resistance.

The springs are colour-coded by the amount of resistance they provide. Usually, white is the lightest spring, then blue, yellow, and finally, the most resistance from red. Many levels of resistance are achieved through varying combinations of the springs. There are some variations in colour-coding, but you will get to know the machines at your studio.

Your instructor will tell you which springs to use for each exercise. Beginning students are never expected to know which springs to use. The carriage is the part you put your body on. The carriage is moved by pushing against the foot bar, or by pulling the straps or ropes at the other end of the Reformer. The carriage glides back and forth along the inside of the frame, responding to the effort you exert and the amount of resistance set up by the springs. Reformer exercises can be done lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing on the carriage.

The straps are connected to pulleys at the top end of the Pilates Reformer. The straps have handles on the end that you can grasp to pull or push the carriage. You may also be asked to thread the straps through the handles in order to work with your feet in the straps. Again, the basic principle is that you will be pushing or pulling yourself on the carriage against the resistance provided by your own body weight and the springs.

Head Rest and Shoulder Blocks

Many Pilates Reformer Machine exercises are done lying down with the head on the headrest. The important thing to be aware of is that the headrest can be down flat or propped up. In many cases, it will be your preference whether the headrest is up or down. You will want to find out what is most comfortable for your neck. However, it is important to have the headrest down anytime you are going to bring your legs over your head. There are also exercises where you turn around and put your feet through the headrest area.

The shoulder blocks keep you stable on the STOTTPILATES Reformer as you push or pull the carriage. Often your shoulders are against the blocks, but there are also exercises that use the shoulder blocks as props for the feet, knees or hands.

Apart from the regular equipment, the newly acquired STOTT PILATES® V2 Max Plus™ Reformer class adds a cutting edge to our offerings and a unique opportunity for our clients.

Taught in groups of six, it is designed to help clients work against very gentle tension which is built up incrementally as strength increases. The STOTT Reformer offers restriction-free movement and limitless programming possibilities providing a superior workout as it allows the emulating of free, multidimensional movement of daily life.

"I'd strongly recommend Nisha's classes using the V2Max machines. They are great for improving general strength and flexibility but it's also helped me with various joint problems especially recovering from pregnancy and general childcare aches and pains. Nisha is a clear and direct teacher who understands what it's like to try and overprotect you. She'll push your abilities, showing you what you're capable of. I always feel better after a class and well worth attending on these dark winter nights to sort out aches and pains." Client Christa Price

Its innovative vertical frame pulley system accommodates three-dimensional range of motion, maintaining workout flow and providing even, constant resistance without jarring.

STOTT Reformer classes are essential/intermediate level workouts. The pace is moderate and you really enjoy the toning capabilities of this type of workout. All Staff are certified STOTT Reformer with STOTT PILATES.

Pilates Comes To Manchester

2011-05-02T05:17:00.000-07:00

PILATES FUSION

Stretch, Strengthen & Tone with our Classes.

Increase core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support.

Wednesdays 9.30- 10.30am Cost - £7

The Hall@Marthall
Sandlebridge Lane,
Marthall,
Knutsford
Cheshire
WA16 7SB
01625-890652

Start anytime, Beginners welcome, Bring a Yoga Mat 01744 751115

www.pilates4sport.com Email: info@pilates4sport.com

Nisha Srivastava Teacher of the British Wheel of Yoga, Fully Certified STOTTPILATES Teacher

Pilates/Yoga For Marathon Runners.

2011-04-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

Q. I am training for my first half marathon. How can incorporating Pilates into my conditioning routine help?

Sally Belanger, Project Specialist, Education & Master Instructor Trainer responds: Running involves the utilization of large power generating muscles such as the gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps and hip flexors. These muscles propel the body forward and are able to generate speed, power and sustain substantial aerobic effort for long durations of time. The utilization of these muscles, and their ability to push the body for long periods of time at high speeds, is increased when the skeleton is stable. Large muscles are not built to stabilize the hips and spine. But if the small stabilizing muscles are not strong enough to hold the spine in correct alignment, the large muscles try to align and support the skeleton which decreases biomechanical efficiency. This in turn can slow the runner down, decrease their endurance and aerobic capacity or over time can lead to repetitive strain or chronic injuries.

STOTT PILATES® exercise works the small stabilizing muscles that hold the skeleton in the correct alignment. The exercises can target all the joints of the body. Often we think of Pilates as only working the abdominal muscles which are important, however, the exercises can also target hips, knees and ankles to ensure that the joints are in proper position to transfer the forces that the body experiences during running. If these small muscles, which Pilates exercises target, can do their job properly then the large muscles will not try to take over and they will be able to generate the power and speed required.

Pilates will also provide a mind-body connection that the runner can integrate in their running. The small muscles need to be trained and are as important as the large muscles that are targeted in hill repeats, intervals and distance runs. When the runner can fire the small muscles it can help alleviate the pain that comes from overtraining or poor biomechanics. Teaching the runner how to engage the core musculature through STOTT PILATES exercise can assist with adding mileage without pain, as well as increasing the focus and awareness of working the proper muscles throughout the run as they begin to fatigue.

Yoga For Runners

During the course of an average mile run, your foot will strike the ground 1,000 times. The force of impact on each foot is about three to four times your weight. It's not surprising, then, to hear runners complain of bad backs and knees, tight hamstrings, and sore feet.

The pain most runners feel is not from the running in and of itself, but from imbalances that running causes and exacerbates. If you bring your body into balance through the practice of Yoga, you can run long and hard for years to come. Although Yoga and running lie on opposite ends of the exercise spectrum, the two need not be mutually exclusive. In fact, running and Yoga make a good marriage of strength and flexibility.

Adventures in India Part 4 - Bodhgaya

2011-04-17T04:46:00.001-07:00

"Bodhgaya is the place where Gautama Buddha attained unsurpassed, supreme Enlightenment. It is a place which should be visited or seen by a person of devotion and which would cause awareness and apprehension of the nature of impermanence".

Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha-to-be, had been dwelling on the banks of the Nairanjana River with five ascetic followers for six years practicing austerities. Realising that austerities could not lead to realisation he abandoned them. His five ascetic companions disgusted at his seeming failure, deserted him and left for Sarnath.

He then moved towards the village of Senani where he was offered rice milk by a Brahmin girl, Sujata. Accepting from a grass-cutter a gift of kusa grass for a mat, the Bodhisattva took a seat under a pipal tree facing east. Here he resolved not to rise again until enlightenment was attained.

"Here on this seat my body may shrivel up,
my skin, my bones, my flesh may dissolve,
but my body will not move from this seat
until I have attained Enlightenment,
so difficult to obtain in the course of many kalpas".

As Gautama sat in deep meditation, Mara, Lord of Illusion, perceiving that his power was about to be broken, rushed to distract him from his purpose. The Bodhisattva touched the earth, calling it to bear witness the countless lifetimes of virtue that had led him to this place of enlightenment. When the earth shook, confirming the truth of Gautama's words, Mara unleashed his army of demons. In the epic battle that ensued, Gautama's wisdom broke through the illusions and the power of his compassion transformed the demons' weapons into flowers and Mara and all his forces fled in disarray.

Learn How to Increase Your Flexibility In 28 Days With Yoga !

2011-04-17T04:45:00.001-07:00

Who Needs Flexibility Training ?

Everyone needs to stretch their muscles. Balance is everything when it comes to fitness. Many women practice yoga and follow rigorous cardio programs, but never lift weights. At the same time, many men lift weights but do little cardio and often don't bother to stretch properly, if at all.

If you live a sedentary lifestyle and are stubborn, time cramped, inconsistent, or just plain lazy about exercising, you should at least include a gentle stretching routine somewhere in your day. Even if it's just taking a break from the office or television to stretch and walk around to get the blood moving and the oxygen flowing through your body. It won't necessarily increase your flexibility, but it will at least keep your legs from falling asleep

Immediate Benefits of Flexibility Training:

* Reduce the risk of injury caused by working your muscles
* Encourage blood flow to muscles, helping to distribute oxygen throughout the body. When stretching after a workout, this will help your body cool down and prevent pooling in the veins after you stop moving (eg. in your legs after a cardio workout).
* Reduce muscle soreness the following day
* It feels awesome

Long-Term Benefits:

* Helps to improve your posture
* Gradually increases the range of motion in your joints so that you can bend, reach, or stretch further.
* Keeps your body feeling good as you age
* Encourages you to take time to relax and focus on your body, which will help to improve your stress levels and how you cope.

Fancy a Pilates & Yoga Retreat in France ?

2011-04-17T04:43:00.000-07:00

Join Northwest Pilates & Yoga for wonderful Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreats in Southwest France. Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta... Plug in, renew and relax.

Who should go ?

Pilates Teachers, Yoga Instructors, Dancers, Actors, Singers, Profesional/Semi-Profesional & Amateur Sports Enthusiasts, Public Sector Workers & Joe Bloggs

Sample Timetable :

Friday
3.00-6.00pm - Arrival &Lunch
7.00pm - Dinner
9.00-10.30pm-Relaxing Yin Yoga followed by Yoga Nidra

Saturday
8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class
10.15am-Breakfast Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc
2.00pm-Lunch Free Time-For Massage etc
4.00pm-Chai & Tiffin
5.00-7.00pm Relaxing Yin Yoga,Pranayama,Meditation
7.30pm-Dinner 9.30pm -Yoga Nidra

Sunday
8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class
10.15am-Breakfast Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc
2.00pm-Lunch
3.00pm-Departure

Cost :

£195 per person based on sharing with 1 or 2 others.

Limited single occupancy is available for a supplement. Please enquire regarding availability.

The cost includes:

* Full board
* Accommodation (2/3 people sharing)
* Light breakfast
* Buffet brunch/lunch
* Dinner
* Fruit and drinks available throughout the day
* All daily Yoga & Pilates (mats etc provided)

The cost excludes:

* Insurance
* Travel and flights
* Airport transfers

I have 1 Male place left for the May Retreat.

2011-04-04T05:15:00.000-07:00

Indian Army Replace Military Drills With Yoga Workouts

Dear Nisha,

Yoga does not have a hard man image, it is difficult to envisage a troop of soldiers doing daily yoga practice as part of their military training. However, the recent experiment by the Indian Army showed that after three months new soldiers of the Bengal Engineering Group who did 50 minutes of yoga a day combined with 40 minutes of traditional exercise had steadier hands, stronger grips and leaner muscles than peers who underwent a 90-minute military workout instead.

Click Here To Watch Our Latest Yoga Photo Shoot

"The yoga group showed an improvement in activities requiring co-ordination and concentration as well-as muscular strength and endurance," according to the project analyst, Shirley Telles. "This would be especially useful for activities such as shooting."

The interest of the Indian Army, which is the the second largest in the world after China, comes at the same time as a renewed interest in yoga throughout India. The military's routine is based on the teachings of Baba Ramdev, a guru who has championed yoga across the sub-continent through a combination of plain speaking, fierce diatribes against Western lifestyles, fast food and cable television.

The study is being carried out at Patanjali Yogpeeth, a yoga research centre in northern India led by Ramdev. His results showing that yoga helps soldiers back up anecdotal evidence from those already using yoga to combat soaring levels of stress in India's military. India's military is in difficult times, with more soldier suicides occurring across the country over the last few years. Incidents of fragging, an event where soldiers from the same force turn on each other - are soaring in the Indian miliatary. Indian troops serving in the disputed region have a standing order to engage in a weekly one-hour yoga session. They are taught 14 poses to help calm nerves which have been frayed by near-constant low levels of military action

So, yoga helps them both mentally and physically. It provides them with mental strength to continue to operate rationally in stressful conditions, and it also helps improve their martial skills. One of the easiest ways to incorporate yoga into a daily routine is to perform the sun salutation. Ashtanga yoga, which is practised by Madonna and Sting, starts with up to 10 repetitions of the sun salutation, before the main yoga postures are done. Therefore aiming to complete 10 sun salutations each day is an excellent way to incorporate yoga into your daily routine, without having to join a yoga club and follow an teaches instruction all the time.

Increase Your Flexability In 28 Days With Yoga !

Paticipate in two weekly Yoga classes for one month to increase your flexability

Wednesdays 6.30-8.00pm, 90 minute session - £7

St Helens United Reformed Church
King Street
St Helens
Merseyside
WA10 1BQ

Thursdays 6.30-7.30pm, 60 minute session - £5

Fives Football
Alexandra Warehouse
Ravenhead Rd
Saint Helens
Merseyside
WA10 3LR

Dont forget to bring your own Yoga Mat

Pilates Reformer For The Equestrian.

2011-03-25T15:07:00.000-07:00

Pilates Reformer For The Equestrian.

Create a deeper seat and an ideal riding partnership with your horse.

•Frustrated that your horse won't respond properly to your commands?
•Having trouble keeping a stable seat?
•Feeling unusually sore and tired after a ride?

Imbalances develop over time, based on physiology, posture and lifestyle. How you move when not riding - other types of exercise, the amount (and quality) of sitting you do at work, etc. - directly affects how you function on a horse. Resulting asymmetries greatly affect movement and alignment, resulting in impediments like:

•Rounded shoulders
•Tightness and curving in the lower back
•Tight hamstrings

Why Pilates?

Pilates exercises increase your body awareness, and improve flexibility, balance, and strength in order to facilitate an optimal riding experience. Pilates helps equestrians:

•Lengthen the spine and strengthen the core, which stabilizes the body in movement
•Sculpt a stronger body with increased flexibility, strength, and balance
•Create a deeper seat and enhance the suppleness of the lower back
•Strengthen the abdominals
•Increase hip independence
•Increase leg and body length

Performance Benefits

With a strong core and increased flexibility, riders can:

•Freely and gently move arms and legs around a stable base
•Help clarify aids and hold jumping form
•Avoid collapsing and bouncing in the saddle
•Better absorb a horse's movement
•Improve posture to help you deepen your seat
•Increase comfort during and after your ride
•Maintain neutral pelvis so you can easily follow your horse's movements
•Develop a trusting riding relationship, where your horse responds to your commands and is confident in your ability

Client Profile
Name: Andrea McCabe
Age: 34
Horse: Country Mayflower
Horse's age: 8 year old
Breed: Thoroughbred X Mare

"I have suffered for many years with the back, hip and leg problems so I joined Pilates really as my final cry for help. I've had chronic back pain for such a long time due to Irish Dancing, running, falling off horses and general life experiences. I absolutely tried everything, I attended regular physio, alternative therapies, everything you could imagine. The physio sessions did give me the instant alignment but as soon as I rode my horse with any level of impact I was back to the world of multiple slipped disks and a battle with my riding. I moved from my passion sport of Eventing (this is all three disciplines- show jumping, X country and dressage) to pure dressage, this was in the hope to lessen the impact and I got hooked! I was so caught up in the art of riding and training of my horse to instantly respond to the lightest of commands and such fluent movements, the more I got into this sport the more I realised the importance of rider fitness, suppleness and core stability. My horse was so sensitive and any rider balance issues from me would reflect in her performance and affect our competitive performance. I searched the internet for any advice and found the North West Pilates & Yoga Centre, this has been my saving grace! I can't tell you enough how this has helped both me and my horse! We are training so much better, my straightness and upper body strength in the saddle is a million times better and it's reflective in my horse's soundness and our competitive performance. I truly believe any person serious about their sport or health should be practicing Pilates, it not only gives you a comfortable life but such a competitive edge in your chosen sport". - Pilates Reformer Client Andrea McCabe

Adventure in India Part 3 - Varanasi

2011-03-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

Adventures In India Part 3 - Varanasi

Varanasi is a magical city of a myriad side streets leading down to the ghats by the river. Behind all of this roars a monstrous Indian city like anywhere else but down by the river is a world in itself. There are water buffalo cooling down in the water, sadhus and Brahmins praying, bodies being burnt and the whole cycle of life and death as it always was. The River Ganges herself is the most holy of all rivers in India and it's a dream for Hindus to bathe in her waters. She starts up in the mountains and rushes down past Haradwar and virtually everywhere along her banks is sacred. By the time she gets to Benares she's hopelessly polluted and full of sewage but that doesn't stop millions of people immersing themselves. It's an exercise in faith over bacteria. In fact the water used to have a unique property that neutralized the human and toxic pollution but now it's simply too much.

Catch a boat out on the river to watch the sunrise and the ghats come to life. Dodge the carcasses of cows, holy men and children, the only groups that Hindus don't cremate here.This is the place to study Indian music and dance and you'll find a community of musicians here studying ragas and who wouldn't dream of doing anything else. If you can stand the intensity of Benares then this can be a place to stay for a few months and learn something. Watch my video diary below.

My most memorable experience in Varanasi was visiting the burning ghats. The bigger of the two is Manikarnika, the other is Harishchandra. The former hosts up to 200 cremations each day. The process is efficient and businesslike. Above the ghats are huge stacks of wood; the family of the deceased, according to their means, buys one of many funeral packages on offer, including a certain quantity of wood, sandalwood sawdust, ghee, other ritualistic paraphernalia, and a priest's services. Orderlies set up the pyre, the body is placed on it, the priest chants and performs the rituals, ghee is poured on, and the pyre is set alight, as the men of the family watch (women stay at home). If the fire doesn't catch on well, more ghee and sawdust are added. If a family can't afford enough wood, as is not uncommon, the body is burned in stages: middle part first, while the head and legs stick out, to be pushed in deftly by a pole after the middle part collapses.

A few hours later, the ashes and bits of bones are gathered by the eldest son or a senior male of the family and consigned to the waters, where "untouchables" stand with wire nettings to dredge up the ash and mud, hoping for a gold tooth or nose ring that may have survived the fire (pieces of jewelry may be left on the deceased by the family). Not all who die are cremated -- children under five, lepers, sadhus, pregnant women, and snake-bite victims are offered directly to the river.

Watching the spectacle, I felt a liberating calm visit me. Few better ways to peer into the abyss and see our common fate, laid out evocatively in the Book of Common Prayer: from earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust. Why, there is nothing morbid about death. It is a simple fact of life that should inform our everyday choices and opinions. Yet, the greatest wonder of all, as Yudhisthira says in the Mahabharata, is that each day death strikes, and we live as though we were immortal.

10 Hours Of Tuition, Scrumptious Organic Food, Boutique Accomodation All For £195

2011-03-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

I will be including my own personal experience and passion for Indian Philosphy, Buddhism and a touch of Bollywood. View my Bollywood experience

Friday 6th to Sunday 8th May 2011

Arrival Friday afternoon - Depart Sunday afternoon

Watch last years retreat in France Click Here

www.passeroses.com

Join Northwest Pilates & Yoga for a wonderful weekend of Yoga and Pilates in Southwest France. Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta... Plug in, renew and relax.

"I really enjoyed the experience I had on my weekend away. I am now a convert to Yoga/Pilates and only hope I can find the same high quality teaching in the North East where I live, that I received during the weekend. I loved the centre, the food and the other group members, many of whom were strangers to me." -

Pilates Holidays & Yoga Retreat Client Dee Platter

During this weekend we will look at ways in which we can use our Yoga/Pilates to improve our everyday living. You will leave with restored energy levels, a renewed vibrancy and a relaxed mind and body. Reconnect with your inner light and experience body brightness.

"I spent an idyllic weekend with a group of 9 from North West Pilates Centre. Fantastic location in the south of France. We stayed in a stunning house and were fed beautiful home cooked food. Therapist was available to perform massages. My aromatherapy massage was out of this world. Nisha put together an absolutely brilliant set of classes which pushed us mentally and physically at the right time throughout the weekend. I have come home completely restored and feeling like a new woman. Can't wait for the next one." -

Pilates Holiday & Yoga retreat Client Claire Sumner
There is a separate therapy room with massage and holistic treatments, which will be available throughout the weekend (not included in the price). There are many local walks in the beautiful countryside, and there are also bikes which are free to use. Relax in the lovely gardens, around the pool or treat yourself to a relaxing or revitalising treatment with a local English therapist. There is a Moroccan style sitting room to chill out in.

The price includes: All meals which are wholesome vegetarian and organic produce cooked by host Alex. Alex has worked with food for nearly 20 years, firstly training to be a Chef in some of the best restaurants in Manchester and Cheshire including The Lime Tree and The Alderley Edge Hotel. He has also set up several kitchens and his own vegetarian food business.

Sample timetable -

Friday

3.00-5.00pm - Arrival &Lunch

7.00pm - Dinner

9.00-10.30pm-Relaxing Fusion Pilates/ Yoga followed by Relaxation

Saturday

8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class
10.15am-Breakfast
Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc
2.00pm-Lunch
Free Time-For Massage etc
4.00pm-Chai & Tiffin
5.00-7.00pm Relaxing Yin Yoga,Pranayama,Meditation
7.30pm-Dinner
9.30pm -Yoga Nidra

Sunday

8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class

10.15am-Breakfast

Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc

12.00am-Lunch

1.00pm-Departure

Not included in the price is your flight Book now

(Roughly £40 Return including Tax)

Depart Liverpool 12.25 am arrive Limoges 15.10pm Friday 6th May 2011

Depart Limoges 15.35 pm- arrive Liverpool 16.25 pm Sunday 8th May 2011

Or alternatively you can make your own way there. Click Here for alternate route.

My Indian Discovery of Rishikesh

2011-03-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

My Indian Discovery of Rishikesh - Watch Now

Rishikesh calls itself the Yoga capital of the world with some justification as there are masses of ashrams and all kinds of yoga classes. The town's setting on the banks of the Ganges, surrounded by forested hills, is conducive to meditation and mind expansion. In the evening, the breeze blows down the valley, setting temples bells ringing, as sadhus, pilgrims and tourists prepare for the nightly Ganga Aarti ceremony.

The town is very new age, you can learn to play the sitar or tabla on the roof of your hotel: try laughing yoga: practise humming or gong meditation: experience crystal healing and every style of massage: have ago at chanting mantras: and listen to spiritually uplifting CDS as you sip Ayurvedic tea with your vegetarian meal.

The Maharishi & the Beatles

In February 1968, Rishikesh hit world headlines when the four beatles and their partners stayed at Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's Ashram in Swam Ashram.Ringo & his wife did not like vegetarian food, missed their children and left after a couple of weeks, but others stayed for a month or two. They relaxed and wrote tonnes of songs, many of which landed up on their double disc 'White Album', but the Maharishi's demands for money and his behaviour towards some female disciples eventually disillusioned all of them, "You made a fool of everyone" John Lennon sang about the Maharishi.

But nearly 40 years on idealistic westerners still swarm to Rishikesh seeking spiritual enlightenment from the teachers and the healers in their tranquil ashrams scattered along the Ganges River.

Watch my adventure in Rishikesh - Watch Now

FOOTBALLER RYAN GIGGS DOES PILATES

2011-03-03T11:10:00.000-08:00

FOOTBALLER RYAN GIGGS DOES PILATES -

'Ryan Giggs and his debt to Yoga' by Barney Ronay, The Guardian
Hatha yoga has balmed those hamstring injuries and prolonged his glittering career.

When the 36-year-old Manchester United player Ryan Giggs was voted BBC sports personality of the year on Sunday night he accepted the trophy with the usual mumbled thank-yous, but stopped short of a special mention for his personal Hatha yoga instructor - a gentle discipline that has often been credited as the catalyst behind Giggs' longevity as a top-class footballer.

Giggs started practising yoga in 2003. Then he was a 31-year-old reformed good-time boy with dodgy hamstrings. "The first time I did it I was completely knackered," he said last year. "I went home from the training ground and slept for three hours."

This is the thing about yoga, which, to the uninitiated, could look like no more than a series of variations on the notion of lying down in a tracksuit. "There is this perception that yoga is a gentle thing but it has many levels," says Nita Shah, a Hatha Yoga instructor in north London. "In yoga we mobilise all the joints, making the muscle supple as well as leaner."

Watch what Gigsy has to say about Yoga - click here

For Giggs yoga has proved a balm for those persistent hamstring injuries, prolonging a career that has now taken on an unusual reverse trajectory: a player who with age has suffered less rather than more with injuries, and who in 2008 surpassed Bobby Charlton's long-standing United record of 758 appearances.
Perhaps yoga has had other benefits too. One pre-yoga attempt to soothe the Giggs hamstring involved trading in his Ferrari for a car with a slightly smoother clutch pedal. This gives us a glimpse of a previous model Giggs, the tyro teenager who dated Dani Behr and was very briefly caught up in a welter of - in truth - rather mild celebrity behaviour.

Could yoga also be a driving force behind his current air of furrowed and spiritual wellbeing, a burgeoning status as an extremely bendy millionaire Premier League Yoda? Maybe, but also maybe not. Shah points out that yoga demands "great willpower and great inner focus". Giggs himself has described it as "just stretching really". Ryan Giggs and his debt to yoga' by Barney Ronay, the Guardian, Tuesday 15th December.

New Pilates Studio Opens Mumbai

2011-02-12T07:14:00.000-08:00

On my recent trip to Mumbai I met up with business man Samir Purohit. Business men and fitness experts Samir Purohit and Rajasthan Royal Cricket team Physio John Gloster have recently (Dec 2010) opened the World's very first Pilates & Altitude training Studio centre in (Khar - W), Mumbai. The Rajasthan cricket team is famous in the West for its colourful coach Shane Watson.

Watch the NDTV interview Click Here

The pair use their business and sports background to coach everyone from General Fitness Enthusiasts / TV Stars / Budding Bollywood Actresses to Top celebrities including Cricketer Shane Watson.

Samir's daughter Namrata is a national level squash player and is so far the youngest trained STOTTPILATES teacher in the world at just 16 years old. Both Samir and his daughter's coaches have noticed the difference dramatically in her Balance and Performance skills.

The Studio is presently running its own version of the "The Biggest Looser".

The Studio has taken up a challenge to change Natasha Grover (who was the female winner in the Biggest Loser a few years back) into a bikini body within 6 months. She has gone from 72kg to 67 kg (in one month) using the new studio in Mumbai

Join a Pilates Reformer Class - Click Here to watch a class

The springs provide resistance from the machine. The rest of the resistance is provided by your own body weight. The springs hook on the spring bar, and different springs can be unhooked to increase or decrease the resistance.

Your instructor will tell you which springs to use for each exercise. Beginning students are never expected to know which springs to use. The carriage is the part you put your body on. The carriage is moved by pushing against the foot bar, or by pulling the straps or ropes at the other end of the Reformer. The carriage glides back and forth along the inside of the frame, responding to the effort you exert and the amount of resistance set up by the springs. Reformer exercises can be done lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing on the carriage.

The straps are connected to pulleys at the top end of the Pilates Reformer. The straps have handles on the end that you can grasp to pull or push the carriage. You may also be asked to thread the straps through the handles in order to work with your feet in the straps. Again, the basic principle is that you will be pushing or pulling yourself on the carriage against the resistance provided by your own body weight and the springs.

"Having taken up Yoga, Pilates and running all in the last 6 months I have a renewed vigour for fitness and feel the combination has helped me to become stronger and more lean and toned having lost 11lbs and dropped a dress size. The shape of my body has changed and I feel more lean and in proportion. The Yoga and Pilates are helping me to improve my strength and felxibility and I just love going to the classes." - Eileen Jackson

You'll be taken through a challenging, full body workout designed to strengthen core stability, lengthen muscles and increase flexibility in this Pilates matwork class. The Pilates Mat class is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and are incorporated in the classes. The Pilates mat exercises are adaptable to any fitness level, and it is nice to focus on learning the basics correctly without having to get friendly with new exercise equipment at the same time. The Pilates mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

"Having sedative job, and as a result not very active lifestyle, I am finding Pilates and Yoga classes a great saviour from giving up on oneself completely. I used to get really bad neck & back pains that would stop me from doing things around the house all the time, and since I started attending Pilates (about 2 years ago), pain has gone. After Yoga and Pilates classes I always feel energised, refreshed and in a better mood. Nisha is a world class instructor, classes are always challenging and interesting, one of those when time just flies by. I wish I could have daily sessions" - Lesia Swain

Adventures in India Part 1 - "Haridwar"

2011-02-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Adventures in India Part 1 - "Haridwar" - Click here to watch
Greetings!

I have now been back in the UK for 7 days after a 2 month Adventure travelling through both North and South India. India's astounding diversity of religions, languages, and cultures is unique and unparalleled. The society of vast subcontinent, varied and complex in its rich heritage, is among the oldest in the world.

Five thousand years of history have nourished the growth of a great civilization. It has been vitalized through cross-cultural contact and characterized by unity in diversity of culture and race, caste, religion, and language. India has a habit of making the most noble of people feel humble.

In India there are examples of virtually every known type of societal division; six major religions- Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism; two major language families- Aryan and Dravidian, with 18 official languages and innumerable dialects and tribal languages; three racial strains- Aryan, Dravidian, and proto-Australoid; and over 4000 castes, hierarchically ranked, endogamous, and occupational.

I have put together a video diary of the highlights, feelings and experiences i had across this vast and diverse country. Starting with Haridwar, Haridwar propitiously located at the point where the Ganges emerges from the Himalaya, is also a holy Hindu city. Pilgrims flock here all year to bathe in the often fast flowing Ganges Crowds assemble at Har-Ki-Pairi every evening and the river comes alive with flickering flames as floating offerings are released onto the Ganges.

Click here to watch part 1 of my video diary.

10 reasons for you to re-start Pilates in January.

2011-01-26T00:26:00.001-08:00

If you are just starting out in Pilates/Yoga or thinking of having a go, here are top 10 tips for Pilates/Yoga beginners - everything the Pilates novice needs to know.

Find a Pilates teacher and really get the basic principles
First things first: try to find a good teacher in your local area. Google your teachers reviews Then join a beginner's class. An experienced teacher is essential to help you get a proper introduction to the subtleties of Pilates/Yoga. They can show you effectively what each exercise looks and feels like, and can respond to your individual needs.

Be real and think positive
At the beginning, you may dream of achieving a body like Pilates/Yoga practitioner Madonna, but you've got to start from where you are. Positive thinking is important, and it's helpful to have a vision to aim for. Really be honest with yourself about your body's strengths, weaknesses and needs, and ask your teacher for help with realistic aims.

Have patience
Results in Pilates/Yoga come from working consistently. You need to be patient and regular in your practice of Pilates/Yoga to achieve your goals, and sometimes the exercises you find most difficult may be the best medicine for you, so persevere!

Don't push your body too hard
'No pain no gain' is certainly not the Pilates/Yoga way, and if you are finding an exercise painful you should stop. Some discomfort is likely to be a part of working your body in new ways, but listen to your body carefully, and with discipline and attention to detail you will gain!

Personalise
Check out exercises and Pilates/Yoga advice relevant to your everyday life - and follow them. Pilates/Yoga teaches ways of doing things that can prevent injury or back pain and counter problems caused by common modern troubles of the body, such as sitting in front of a computer for hours on end. Ask your teacher for tips related to your specific lifestyle or health issues.

Make time
Take some time out for your Pilates/Yoga practice on a regular basis. Turn off your mobile, take the phone off the hook, and try to take some quiet time for yourself regularly. It could help you to feel more relaxed and spacious in the rest of your day.

Make some physical space to practice at home
If you have to shift stuff in a cluttered environment every time you want to practice Pilates/Yoga, this will take precious minutes out from your practice time, may make you feel anxious about your clutter, and will probably sometimes put you off practicing at all! Pilates includes developing a more spacious state of mind. Try to create a place in your home where there is a clear, open space readily available for you to stretch and move.

Create a programme that suits you
It's helpful to have a routine, a) because it's easier to remember, b) because you can feel and measure your progress in it, and c) because as you progress you can add to it and adapt it as you learn more. Michael King suggests choosing three exercises for mobility, three for strength, and taking an hour to do them really properly.

Don't rush: take time out and feel what it's like to slow down
Pilates/Yoga is a slow, flowing exercise: speeding it up will not make it better, in fact, taking more time over an exercise will probably make it feel a bit more challenging and increase its level of difficulty and effectiveness.

Don't distract yourself or speed or funk it up too much with music
If you play music while you practice, don't choose something with a fast or heavy beat. In Pilates/Yoga you need to be able to listen to your body's own rhythm and work with your breathing.

Men: 10 reasons for you to re-start Pilates in January.

2011-01-16T02:57:00.000-08:00

Men who think that pilates or yoga are just for girls should think again, according to Dr Tom Crisp of BUPA Wellness.

He says that the best way for men to improve posture and develop muscle strength is to attack the body's core muscles - those around the trunk area.

Exercises that will have the most positive effect without strain are pilates, yoga and Swiss ball exercises.

"Men who want to get fit would do well to get in touch with their feminine side at the gym. Exercises which may appear to be just for the girls are best, particularly if you want to avoid painful back problems and injury," said Dr Crisp, a sports and orthopaedic specialist with BUPA.

Dr Crisp's top tips for men's fitness are:

1. Get in touch with your core muscles - they are key to playing sports like football and rugby. A good way to identify them is to have a big belly laugh - the muscles that tighten up when you bellow are your core muscles. The best exercises to develop core strength may appear a bit "girly" to the average Sunday league player, but remember, it's these very same drills that our sporting heroes dedicate time to every week

2. Take up pilates which helps balance the body. It makes small but significant differences over time to the way you stand, sit and walk by focusing on exercises that work the abdominal, back and pelvic floor muscles

3. Try standing balanced on one leg and slowly swing the other leg back and forth (as you would in full running action). Avoid rotating, twisting or dipping your pelvis. Once you have mastered this exercise, practice doing it with your eyes closed

4. Practise forming a "back brace" by tightening up your abdominal muscles. You can do this by pulling your belly button inwards without flattening your back, then tightening your pelvic floor muscles as if you were stopping the flow of urine when you go to the toilet, making sure that your breathing is relaxed while you are holding the brace

5. Lie on your stomach, then brace your back and lift opposite arms and legs on one side or both arms and legs at once. You only need to lift them a few inches, but make sure that your back does not arch at all during this movement

6. Use a Swiss ball or gym ball - a large inflatable ball that comes in various different sizes - when performing exercises such as abdominal crunches. It will help you learn to balance and develop strength and can provide extra support and cushioning

7. Use a balance or core board - a rigid top plate with an inflatable cushion underneath - which helps with press-ups, sit-ups and some stretching exercises. Begin by planting your feet squarely on the top surface board and then slowly wobble it from side to side in controlled movements. Don't let the edges touch the floor and keep your body erect and your head up. Now do the same thing but move the board backwards and forwards and finally rotate the board in controlled circular motions

8. Try taking a yoga class to help you improve your posture and body alignment - almost all forms of yoga include relaxation techniques and breathing exercises so it's very beneficial for stress levels too

9. Astanga yoga is the one to go for if you want a physically demanding workout. It offers a fast-paced series of sequential poses and a continual flow of movements. It builds strength, flexibility, and stamina but you need to be reasonably fit before you start a class

10. If you are unfortunate enough to injure yourself, the most important thing is to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment for your injury quickly. Your body is like a car - if it breaks down because of a mechanical fault, putting air in the tyres will not solve the problem
BUPA Wellness offers a range of specialist musculo-skeletal services which are available by calling 0800 00 10 10 (quote "back care") or for more information online visit www.bupa.co.uk/health information.

Ladies: 10 reasons for you to re-start Pilates in January.

2011-01-05T12:26:00.000-08:00

Ladies: 10 reasons for you to re-start Pilates in January.

10. Pecs
The result is breasts that look smoother, higher and more elegant, plus it gives good posture: a sexy quality.

9.Outer Quad
The result is a chiselled, distinctive, dancer-like curve down your outside leg effectively pulling the side of your leg in, making it narrower.

8.Triceps
The result is slender, defined upper arms with the overall effect being both strong and feminine.

7. Hamstrings
The result is graceful leg definition and a lifted butt as the muscles curve outwards on the back of the leg mid-point up your upper leg, and then hey curve inwards right under your butt.

6. Lower Quads
The result is "skier's bump", those little bulges right over the knees that create definition and a slim look around the knees.

5. Lower Traps
The result is an elongated neck, an elegant posture, and a sculpted upper back.

4. Abs
The result is the chiseled six-pack.

3. T.A. (Traversus Abdominis)
The result is a flattened stomach and a strong core that stabilizes your lower spine.

2. Gluteus Medius
The result is the dancer's proverbial heart-shaped butt: cute and tight! Your legs seem to start higher on your frame; saddle bags shrink or disappear altogether as your seat tightens, and hollows form in the sides of your seat, making your hips look slimmer.

1. Gluteus Maximus
The result is the embellishment of our elegant, upright posture, and in women forms the bottom part of our alluringly-female hour-glass shape.

Yoga Workshops With Jackie Quayle - Wednesday 19th & 26th January

"Jackie Quayle will lead you through Core Strength Vinyasa (TM), created by New York teacher Sadie Nardini, Core Strength Vinyasa Yoga is one of the most effective yoga practices for sparking major changes both inside and out. The "Core" is too often seen as only the superficial abdominal muscles. They are important, but there is a whole world of muscles, actions, energy and philosophy contained within the core of the body and spirit complex. I teach it all to you so you can demystify what's at your core and how you can make it work for you instead of against you both on and off the mat".To read more about cores strength vinyasa click here http://www.sadienardini.com/core-strength-vinyasa-yoga.html

Studio 54 - Boogie Nights

2010-11-27T07:19:00.001-08:00

Studio 54 - Boogie Nights

This weeks Pilates Classes will be themed on the American night club "Studio 54". Boogie Nights Grooves will accompany the Pilates Repertoire. Feel free to don your flares and 70's gear.

Last 48 hrs to claim free Pilates & Yoga Classes - For all our Customers.

Write a review on Google maps about your Pilates Mat Class, Pilates Reformer Class or Vinyasa Yoga Class to claim your free class in December (All reviews must be submitted by December 1st) Click Here to write your review (You will be asked to set up a Google account).

Pilates & Yoga For Football.

A growing number of Sporting Professionals do Pilates & Yoga as a way of improving co-ordination, mobility and flexibility, as well as for both recovering from injuries(Sports Injury Therapy Technique) and preventing them in the first place.

Watch Profesional Footballers do Pilates Click Here

"Many thanks for your support on our recent trip to Mottram Hall. The session was excellent and very well received by all the players and staff as discussed we hope to continue with regular sessions back home and we are currently looking for somebody of your high standard to help take this forward."
- Malcolm Stuart
- Head Physiotherapist, Brighton & Hove Albion FC

DAVID Beckham is hoping to stretch his career out until he's 40 - by doing body-bending Pilates exercises.
The England star, 34 - subject of hit film Bend It Like Beckham - says he is in his best shape in years due to an hour-long daily routine.

He is desperate to show Three Lions boss Fabio Capello he is fit enough for next year's World Cup in South Africa, and play on for years afterwards.

Becks was introduced to Pilates - a stretching and breathing routine particularly popular with women - on loan at AC Milan.

He said: ?I do an hour of Pilates a day. The medical set-up at Milan is fantastic and fitness-wise I am the best I have been for a long time.

The Italian giants insist all their players take up Pilates as it helps with balance and suppleness.

The fitness regime has reduced Becks' body fat from 13.7 per cent to a super-toned 8.5 per cent.

"Pilates has been an essential part of our conditioning programme since pre-season training. Nisha has provided the team with first class teaching skills and excellent knowledge in this area."
- Lee Nobes BA (Comb Hons), BSc (Hons), MCSP SRP, GSR
- Head Physiotherapist, Oldham Athletic FC

He played the whole of England's 6-0 thrashing of Andorra at Wembley earlier this month - his first full match for his country in three years. A source said: ?David covered every blade of grass?He might get a bit of stick from the England lads as Pilates is seen as a bit of a girlie fitness fad - but he won't care if he gets to South Africa.?

The midfielder returns to LA Galaxy next month. He and wife Victoria, 35, have signed up for Pilates classes at Los Angeles' exclusive Sports Club.

German Joseph Pilates created the exercises early last century. They are practised by more than ten million, including England's cricketers and New Zealand's rugby team.

"We have found great benefit with the introduction of Pilates sessions at Preston North End FC. Both the 1st team professionals and the youth team have weekly sessions of Pilates in an attempt to address the various weaknesses in player's core control. It plays a key part of our preventative rehabilitation strategies that we implement at the football club."
Steve Kemp - MSc. BSc (hons), GSR, MCSP, SRP
Head Physiotherapist Preston North End FC

Free Pilates & Yoga Classes - For all our Customers.

2010-11-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

Write a review on Google maps about your Pilates Mat Class, Pilates Reformer Class or Vinyasa Yoga Class to claim your free class in December (All reviews must be submitted by December 1st) Click Here to write your review (You will be asked to set up a Google account).

A growing number of Sporting Professionals do Pilates & Yoga as a way of improving co-ordination, mobility and flexibility, as well as for both recovering from injuries(Sports Injury Therapy Technique) and preventing them in the first place.

Watch NBA Basketball Star Greg Oden do Pilates Click here

I am now taking bookings for our January term, All classes start week commencing 17th January.

Do you want to shape up after christmas? Book now!

Pilates Mat Classes

"I joined the matwork classes to increase the strength in the core muscles to improve an existing back condition. I can arrive at the class with tense muscles but leave the class with much more relaxed and loosened muscles and sleep very well after a session". - Pilates Mat Client Sylvia Dillon

Watch a Pilates Mat Class Click here

You'll be taken through a challenging, full body workout designed to strengthen core stability, lengthen muscles and increase flexibility in this Pilates matwork class. The Pilates Mat class is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and Pilates Mat exercise principles are incorporated in the classes. The Pilates mat exercises are adaptable to any fitness level, and it is nice to focus on learning the basics correctly without having to get friendly with new exercise equipment at the same time. The Pilates mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

"I have just started Pilates and have to say it is the best thing I have done, I am in the middle of the menapause and have had trouble sleeping, since starting the classes I have started sleeping again, the classes are small maximum 6 to a group so I feel I am getting one to one tuition, the equipments is exceptional and the tutors are fantastic, would recommend Pilates to all" Pilates Mat Client Patricia Byrne

"I'm very impressed with Sue's class, she explains everything clearly and fully and i'm looking forward to continuing this class." - Pilates Mat Client Paul Roberts

"In ten sessions you'll feel the difference, in twenty you'll see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a new body." - Joseph Pilates.

New Beginners Pilates Reformer Machine Class With Sue Ashcroft, 4 Week Course £40, Starts Tuesday 18th January 8:30 - 9:30PM

Despite the somewhat medieval name, the STOTTPILATES Reformer machine is actually an amazingly elegant machine. The STOTTPILATES Reformer provides finely tuned exercise resistance that allows one to work very precisely to develop good alignment, core strength, and flexibility.

To view a Reformer Class Click here

Pilates & Yoga Christmas Vouchers Up For Grabs‏

2010-11-06T08:09:00.000-07:00

"Roll Up Roll Up - Get Your Xmas Vouchers Here ! "

Piates & Yoga French Retreat at www.passeroses.com - Friday 6th to Sunday 8th May 2011 or Friday 30th September to Sunday 2nd October 2011 £195

Beginners starter package £160 for 6, one hour, private one to one sessions

Private 1 hour lesson including consultation £40

4 Week V2 Max Reformer Pilates Reformer £40

4 Week Restorative - Backcare/Pregnancy On the Pilates Reformer £40.00

Pilates Mat Classes

"I joined the matwork classes to increase the strength in the core muscles to improve an existing back condition. I can arrive at the class with tense muscles but leave the class with much more relaxed and loosened muscles and sleep very well after a session". - Pilates Mat Client Sylvia Dillon

Watch a Pilates Mat Class Click here

4 week Mat Course £24 starts Wednesday 10th November at 5:30, 6:30 or 7:30

You'll be taken through a challenging, full body workout designed to strengthen core stability, lengthen muscles and increase flexibility in this Pilates matwork class. The Pilates Mat class is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and Pilates Mat exercise principles are incorporated in the classes. The Pilates mat exercises are adaptable to any fitness level, and it is nice to focus on learning the basics correctly without having to get friendly with new exercise equipment at the same time. The Pilates mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

"I have just started Pilates and have to say it is the best thing I have done, I am in the middle of the menapause and have had trouble sleeping, since starting the classes I have started sleeping again, the classes are small maximum 6 to a group so I feel I am getting one to one tuition, the equipments is exceptional and the tutors are fantastic, would recommend Pilates to all" Pilates Mat Client Patricia Byrne

"I'm very impressed with Sue's class, she explains everything clearly and fully and i'm looking forward to continuing this class." - Pilates Mat Client Paul Roberts

"In ten sessions you'll feel the difference, in twenty you'll see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a new body." - Joseph Pilates.

Vinyasa Yoga - A Yoga Flow class linking Traditional Vinyasa Yoga with Breath.

"I have been going to Nisha's classes for three years. I am a 53 year old male looking for an appropriate level of activity within a comfortable atmosphere and have found this with North West Pilates. I find the class challenging and stimulating; my flexibility has improved and the twinges and strains from looking after horses each morning are easily absorbed. I would recommend this form of activity to anyone of any age." - Yoga Client Phil Dearden

Every Wednesday at St.Helens United Reform Church, 6:30 - 8:00PM, £7.00 drop in

Bring your own Yoga Mat and Block.

Vinyasa yoga is a term that covers a broad range of yoga classes. The word Vinyasa means "breath-synchronized movement." In other words, the teacher will instruct you to move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. This technique is sometimes also called Vinyasa Yoga Flow, or just Yoga Flow because of the smooth way that the poses run together and become like a dance. Vinyasa Yoga's strength is in its diversity. There is no single philosophy, rulebook, or sequence that teachers must follow, so there is a lot of room for individual personalities and quirks to come through.

To view more about Vinyase Yoga Click here

STOTTPILATES Reformer Machines - The Rolls Royce Of Reformer Machines.

2010-10-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

Despite the somewhat medieval name, the STOTTPILATES Reformer machine is actually an amazingly elegant machine. The STOTTPILATES Reformer provides finely tuned exercise resistance, that allows one to work very precisely to develop good alignment, core strength, and flexibility.

Watch our Womens Reformer Class Click here
Watch our Mens Reformer Class Click here

Apart from the regular equipment, the newly acquired STOTT PILATES® V2 Max Plus™ Reformer class adds a cutting edge to our offerings and a unique opportunity for our clients. Taught in groups of four, it is designed to help clients work against very gentle tension which is built up incrementally as strength increases. The STOTT Reformer offers restriction-free movement and limitless programming possibilities providing a superior workout as it allows the emulating of free, multidimensional movement of daily life.

Book now - 5 week Reformer course £50.00 or £14.00 drop in, commences Monday 1st November - click here for class times

"I'd strongly recommend Nisha's classes using the V2Max machines. They are great for improving general strength and flexibility but it's also helped me with various joint problems especially recovering from pregnancy and general childcare aches and pains. Nisha is a clear and direct teacher who understands what it's like to try and overprotect you. She'll push your abilities, showing you what you're capable of. I always feel better after a class and well worth attending on these dark winter nights to sort out aches and pains". Client Christa Price

Pilates Mat classes

Our STOTTPILATES Mat classes are based on the original work of Joseph Pilates Matwork.Pilates Matwork is kept exciting and interesting by using small equipment such as the Pilates Magic Circle, Arc Barrel and Foam Roller etc

Watch a Pilates Mat Class Click here

You'll be taken through a challenging, full body workout designed to strengthen core stability, lengthen muscles and increase flexibility in this Pilates matwork class. The Pilates Mat class is a great place to begin. All of the fundamental movements and Pilates Mat exercise principles are incorporated in the classes. The Pilates mat exercises are adaptable to any fitness level, and it is nice to focus on learning the basics correctly without having to get friendly with new exercise equipment at the same time. The Pilates mat exercises will help you quickly gain a lot of strength and confidence in the Pilates method.

"I have just started Pilates and have to say it is the best thing I have done, I am in the middle of the menapause and have had trouble sleeping, since starting the classes I have started sleeping again, the classes are small maximum 6 to a group so I feel I am getting one to one tuition, the equipments is exceptional and the tutors are fantastic, would recommend Pilates to all" Pilates Mat Client Patricia Byrne

"In ten sessions you'll feel the difference, in twenty you'll see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a new body." - Joseph Pilates.

Yoga Opens the Commonwealth Games

2010-10-22T08:59:00.001-07:00

Yoga Opens the Commonwealth Games

About 7,000 performers entertained 60,000 spectators inside the stadium as Buddhist monks shared the stage with musicians from across the country wearing white sarongs, horned headgear and turbans.

India's President Pratibha Patil and Britain's Prince Charles declared the games open during a three-hour celebration at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium, while Oscar-winning 'Slumdog Millionaire' composer A.R. Rahman sang the official games song and the theme tune from the movie. A giant helium-filled balloon with mirrors and lights lifted a huge image of Indian freedom icon Mahatma Gandhi into the air.

The balloon rose from the center of the stadium as the opening ceremony began, lifting huge Rajasthani puppets into the air. The names and flags of competing nations rolled along its sides as the athletes entered, many dressed in traditional clothing from Scottish kilts to African gowns. South Africa's team blew vuvuzelas, the plastic horns that accompanied every soccer match in this year's World Cup.

Gold-clad yoga practitioners twisted limbs while men played electric-blue sitars. Bollywood extravagance and the bustle of Indian village life gave way to solemnity as a march during Mahatma Gandhi's challenge to British colonial rule was created from sand.

Watch the Yoga at the Commonwealth Games

Why not try our Vinyasa Flow Yoga Class,every Wednesday 6.30-8.00pm,St.Helens United Reform Church
Cost £7. We now have 10 men in this group, so come on Men have ago.Read More

Benefits Of Yoga

•Build core strength and stability
•Increasing lubrication of the joints, ligaments and tendons
•Massaging of all Organs of the Body
•Complete Detoxification
•Improve posture and alignment
•Increase flexibility
•Improve muscular balance and strength
•Increase endurance and muscular tone
•Prevent injury
•Enhance athletic performance
•Relieve stress and back pain
•Improve balance and coordination
•Heighten body awareness

FREE FREE FREE YOGA MATS TO ALL NEW CLIENTS !

2010-10-03T07:22:00.000-07:00

Have you tried our new YOGA FUSION FLOW class

"Begin your evening journey with Middle Eastern sounds of opium dens long forgotten. An interwoven fusion of Pilates and Yoga are ignited when opposites merge into one. This Intermediate class will challenge experienced students by exploring more in-depth the pranayama, namaskar, asana practices and the advanced repertoire of the Joseph Pilate. More intricate sequencing will introduce deeper balance, inversion and back bending poses to further cultivate ease and focus in body and mind. This class will go deep into the strengthening and awakening of core both with our muscles and attentive breath work. A great way to build strength while awakening the power of our bodies".

Day-Wednesday Evenings

Time-6.30-8.00pm

Cost-£7 Drop in

Who Can Come ? - Both Men and Women,this is a mixed group

How Will i Benefit ? click here

Location-
St.Helens United
Reformed Church
King Street
St.Helens, Merseyside
WA10 1BQ

(car park at rear)

Tel: 01744-751115 for more details

Pilates & Yoga for Hockey !

2010-10-03T07:18:00.000-07:00

You can combine Yoga & Pilates to create a balanced programme tailored to your individual needs. Yoga & Pilates share many features e.g. certain Pilates exercises are based on Yoga poses, and both practices emphasize the importance of good breathing, awareness and of working within your abilities. North West Pilates & Yoga Centre aims to take the best of both methods, combining core strength that is the fundamental idea of Pilates with the flexibility of Yoga. Practising Pilates will bring extra strength, stability and awareness to your yoga, while practicing yoga will bring better breathing, flexibilty and relaxation to your Pilates practice.

Interview with Client Michelle Liptrot

"I have played Hockey the last 25 years, the last 15 of which for one of the best teams in the country, Bowdon Hightown. Hockey is a demanding sport, played on artificial surfaces known as "astro-turf" and involves speed and endurance and much of the movement involves twisting and turning. This puts a huge amount of pressure on the back, groin and adductors, knees and ankles. Consequently core strength is vital in ensuring that a player can compete for the duration of the season".

"It has become considerably harder to stay fit and injury free throughout the season and I have struggled with groin and adductor injuries for the latter part of the season".

"I have been attending Nisha's pilates classes for nearly 9 months and it has made such a difference. Firstly the classes are challenging and you can really focus on improving your concentration, posture and using the right muscle groups to give you the most significant improvements. In terms of my hockey, pilates has really given me a new lease of life, allowing me to stay stronger and fitter for longer, staying injury free and able to compete without any worries".

"I will certainly be carrying on with Nisha's classes and if you want to improve your core strength for whatever sport you play I would definitely recommend it!"

Pilates & Yoga are moving to France !

2010-10-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

Les Passeroses-24th-26th September 2010 www.lespasseroses.com

Join me for a wonderful weekend of Yoga/Pilates in the Southwest of France. Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta.. Plug in, renew and relax.

Yoga & Pilates
This will be a fun and energising weekend, suitable for practioners of all levels. Through a varied practice we will have the opportunity to explore Yoga/Pilates in its fuller sense. There are times in life when we need to let go, relax and unwind, others when we look to energise and reconnect with the bigger picture. Our moods, the stresses of life, the seasons and many other factors can affect how we feel. Pilates & Yoga enables people to detect and correct imbalances that relate to stress, nutrition, learning problems, minor injuries and other issues they meet in their daily life.

During this week we will look at ways in which we can use our Yoga/Pilates to improve our everyday living. You will leave with restored energy levels, a renewed vibrancy and a relaxed mind and body. Reconnect with your inner light and experience body brightness.

Yoga Yoga Yoga

2010-10-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

Free Yoga with our very own Lou Thorndycraft

Tuesday 29th June,7.00-8.30pm,St.Stephen's Church,Corner Lance lane,Woolton road,Wavertree,L15 6TB

To book your place and read more about Lou click here www.blueskyoga.co.uk

The Ganges River Workshop

Wednesday 30th June,6.30-8.00pm,£7,St.Helens United Reform Church,www.pilates4sport.com

You will be lead through an expressive Yin & Yang practice,duplicating the stillness and flow of the Sacred Ganges River,with standing postures to open the spine,hips and shoulders,and twists,bringing greater mobility to those areas of the body creating freedom and spaciousness.

Sports Massage

The purpose of sports massage is to restore the full potential of your muscular system, to relieve problems and prevent injury. It covers the manipulation, management and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body's muscles, ligaments and tendons. Sports massage can be an important addition to your workout and training, helping achieve your performance goals with minimum injury and pain. A massage after training can help you recover two or three times faster, flushing out the lactic acid and build up of toxins in the muscles. The purpose of sports massage is to restore the full potential of your muscular system, to relieve problems and prevent injury. It covers the manipulation, management and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body's muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Sports Massage £15 for 30 mins,call Wayne Turner to book 07984-778455

PILATES FOR BADBACKS

2010-10-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

According to Dr. Mehmet Oz, 9 out of 10 rehab specialists recommend Pilates as the best form of exercise for lower back pain. Another great number for the Pilates industry, though we wish we knew where he found that figure. "The most successful programs for back rehabilitation are those that creatively integrate traditional Pilates with props, like big balls, resistance bands, or balance disks," he writes in the Ask Dr. Oz section of his website.Click here to read the full article.

Who invented yoga? Well, the Indian authorities believe that the Indians did and are producing documentation to prove their point.An Indian government body tasked with protecting the country's rich heritage of medicinal and medical philosophy and practice has started filming hundreds of asanas - yoga poses - in an attempt to make a rigid system out of this most flexible of meditative practices.click here to read the full article.

HOT PILATES ON THE REFORMER

2010-10-03T06:58:00.000-07:00

HOT PILATES Is the latest Buzz word From the USA,different from HOT YOGA as its taught at safe,sensible room temperatures.The Heat or Hot feel is created by the Pace and Dynamic structure of the class.Utilizing the PIlates Reformer,therfore gives a versatile Programme.Clients have a choice of a 4 week course for £40 or £14 drop in.To view our timetable click here

Stretch your worries away !

2010-10-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

Les Passeroses, Charente, S.W France , £195 all inclusive

Friday 24th - Sunday 26th September 2010

Arrival Friday afternoon - Depart Sunday evening

Join Northwest Pilates & Yoga for a wonderful weekend of yoga and pilates in Southwest France. Improve your core strength and flexibility along with re-education of the body's musculature, fascia, and movement patterns; allowing your body to achieve its natural alignment and support. Set amongst the rolling countryside of the Charente participate with daily Yoga/Pilates practice, pranayama, meditation, swimming, gentle strolls or bike rides, truly delicious food and the occasional siesta... Plug in, renew and relax.

During this weekend we will look at ways in which we can use our Yoga/Pilates to improve our everyday living. You will leave with restored energy levels, a renewed vibrancy and a relaxed mind and body. Reconnect with your inner light and experience body brightness.

There is a separate therapy room with massage and holistic treatments, which will be available throughout the weekend (not included in the price). There are many local walks in the beautiful countryside, and there are also bikes which are free to use. Relax in the lovely gardens, around the pool or treat yourself to a relaxing or revitalising treatment with a local English therapist. There is a Moroccan style sitting room to chill out in.

The price includes: All meals which are wholesome vegetarian and organic produce cooked by host Alex. Alex has worked with food for nearly 20 years, firstly training to be a Chef in some of the best restaurants in Manchester and Cheshire including The Lime Tree and The Alderley Edge Hotel. He has also set up several kitchens and his own vegetarian food business.
Sample Timetable

Friday

3.00-5.00pm - Arrival &Lunch
7.00pm - Dinner
9.00-10.30pm-Relaxing Fusion Pilates/ Yoga followed by Relaxation

Saturday

8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class
10.15am-Breakfast
Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc
2.00pm-Lunch
Free Time-For Massage etc
4.00pm-Chai & Tiffin
5.00-7.00pm Relaxing Yin Yoga,Pranayama,Meditation
7.30pm-Dinner
9.30pm -Yoga Nidra

Sunday
8.00-10.00am -Fusion Flow class
10.15am-Breakfast
Free Time - For Massage,walks,bike ride etc
2.00pm-Lunch
3.00pm-Departure

Not included in the price is your flight Book now !

www.ryanair.com

Depart Liverpool 12.25 am arrive Limoges 3.10pm Friday 24th September

Depart Limoges 6.10 pm- arrive Liverpool 7pm Sunday 26th September

Do You want to drop a dress size for Xmas ?

2010-10-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

With the Auterm fall approaching,now is the time to get your body mentally and physically ready for Xmas party season.You can achieve this easily with just ONE YOGA SESSION and ONE PILATES per week.

"But i am already doing this" i hear you say,"what's different " ?

The first difference is from 6th September i wil be introducing 'TABATA TRAINING' to our schedule.I have put my own individual spin into this programme.I first heard about it in the U.K from International Fitness Presenter Rachel Holmes."

"The Tabata is a high-intensity training regimen that produces remarkable results. A Tabata workout (also called a Tabata sequence) is an interval training cycle of 20 seconds of maximum intensity exercise, followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated without pause 8 times for a total of four minutes. This powerful training method belongs to its namesake, Dr. Izumi Tabata and a team of researchers from the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo, Japan. Their groundbreaking 1996 study, published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports & Exercise, provided documented evidence concerning the dramatic physiological benefits of high-intensity intermittent training. After just 6 weeks of testing, Dr. Tabata noted a 28% increase in anaerobic capacity in his subjects, along with a 14% increase in their ability to consume oxygen (V02Max). These results were witnessed in already physically fit athletes. The conclusion was that just four minutes of Tabata interval training could do more to boost aerobic and anaerobic capacity than an hour of endurance exercise".Rachel Holmes

"How quickly will i see the results" ?

As we all know we need to cross train our Yoga/Pilates practice with cardiovascular exercise plus have a sensible healthy food plan.You will attain quick results by including just two 60min walking sessions a week or four 30min walking sessions a week.Using a pedometer you will record the number of steps in each session over the build up to Xmas.

Our next Yoga workshop will be hosted by Norweigan teacher Christa Powell.It will be held on Wednesday 1st September at St.Helens United Reform Church at 6.30pm-8.00pm,cost is just £7.This is an excellent opportunity for both Yoga & Pilates students to gain a better understanding of rotating through the spine.Students need to bring their own Yoga Mat and Block.

New Pilates & Arc Barrell Class

2010-10-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

New Pilates & Arc Barrell Class

With the Summer over and the schools back in full swing ,now is the time to start looking after number one.We are starting a Pilates & Arc Barrell class this Wednesday ,taught in groups of 6,every client is guaranteed to get individual attention and excellent value for money. Essentially, these are upholstered arches that help support the back and shoulders and plus open up the neck, hips and thighs, depending on how you use them. They're great rehabilitative tools for those recovering from stress, tension or injury and make a safe surface for deep stretching. We Modify exercises to increase or decrease challenge. The Barrel's gentle curve helps decompress and lengthen the spine.

Pilates/Yoga & Tabata Training

Last weeks Pilates & Tabata training has virtually been a sell out,i still have a few places left if any one is interested.

Not sure what Tabita is ? Watch Walt Disney Worlds Pilates & Yoga Guru Sean Vigue in action,

International Fitness Presenter Rachel Holmes explains the Tabata method : "The Tabata is a high-intensity training regimen that produces remarkable results. A Tabata workout (also called a Tabata sequence) is an interval training cycle of 20 seconds of maximum intensity exercise, followed by 10 seconds of rest, repeated without pause 8 times for a total of four minutes. This powerful training method belongs to its namesake, Dr. Izumi Tabata and a team of researchers from the National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Tokyo, Japan. Their groundbreaking 1996 study, published in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports & Exercise, provided documented evidence concerning the dramatic physiological benefits of high-intensity intermittent training. After just 6 weeks of testing, Dr. Tabata noted a 28% increase in anaerobic capacity in his subjects, along with a 14% increase in their ability to consume oxygen (V02Max). These results were witnessed in already physically fit athletes. The conclusion was that just four minutes of Tabata interval training could do more to boost aerobic and anaerobic capacity than an hour of endurance exercise".

Click here to see our latest Reformer Photo shoot !,this will give you an idea of whats involved.

Anatomy In Clay

Last week i attended the most amazing course with American Norah St.John called 'Anatomy In Clay'.This is most definantly one of the best ways to understand the biomechanics of the human body .If you are involved in sport or movement i strongly recommend it.Devised by Jon Zahourek participants are taught to form each muscle, building from the inside out, axial and appendicular anatomy. Students will learn how to build human intrinsic axial, intrinsic brachial, intrinsic pectoral and intrinsic pelvic and extrinsic muscles,and this is just for starters !

9 out of 10 Rehab specialists recommend Pilates via @constantcontact

2010-07-21T06:24:00.000-07:00

9 out of 10 Rehab specialists recommend Pilates via @constantcontact

Yoga with Joanna

2010-05-31T04:47:00.000-07:00

I went on a excellent Yoga retreat with Manchester's Joanna Najduch, she runs her courses very professionally which are very informative for both novice and professional practioners - www.yogawithjoanna.com

"The beautiful warm weather last weekend was the icing on the cake for 18 Yogis at the Spring Yoga Weekend in Cumbria!

We had a beautiful relaxing time! Good food....great company..sunny weather...relaxing holistic treatments.. lovely walks..and of course our sacred Yoga practice! We even managed to take our Yin practice outside to really open up our yoga practice to the elements!

It was so lovely to just relax and take time-out from our busy lives ...and just BE!

The weekends are very popular...I have just 1 space left for the Autumn Weekend in November...and many who came last weekend have booked on again for next Spring! If you think you may want to join us next May... then please contact me to put your name down on the list!" - Joanna Najduch

The Three Amigos Aka The Three Gunas

2010-05-31T04:37:00.000-07:00

WHAT WE EAT IS WHAT WE BECOME !

In Samkya philosophy, there are three major guṇas that serve as the fundamental operating principles or 'tendencies' of Prakriti (universal nature) which are called: sattva guṇa, and rajas guṇa, tamas guṇa. The three primary gunas are generally accepted to be associated with creation (satva), preservation (rajas), and destruction (tamas). The entire creation and its process of evolution is carried out by these three major gunas
Yoga and diet: According to yoga, one must eat the right kind of food to achieve a balance between the soul, mind and body. Sattvic diet is best for yoga practitioners. But Tamasic and Rajasic foods are not good for the body and mind, and are best avoided. To discover your food types click here
.

Sattva

To have Sattva predominant in our nature is the key to health, creativity and spirituality. Sattvic people possess an harmonious and adaptable nature which gives the greatest freedom from disease both physical and mental. They strive towards peace of mind and balance. They see life as a learning experience and look for good in all things, even in disease which they try to understand, and not suppress.

Sattva is the quality of intelligence, virtue and goodness and creates harmony, balance and stability. It is light (not heavy) and luminous in nature. It possesses an inward and upward motion and brings about the awakening of the soul. Sattva provides happiness and contentment of a lasting nature. It is the principle of clarity and peace, the force of love that unites all things together.

Rajas

Rajastic people have good energy but burn themselves out through excessive activity. Their minds are usually agitated and seldom at peace. They have strong opinions and can seek power over others often regardless of the means. They are impatient and inconsistent in dealing with their problems and do not wish to take the time or responsibility to get better, and tend to blame others for their problems. They are generally in control of their lives. However, they are not awake to their spiritual purpose and can be dominated by the ego in their pursuit of happiness. Life brings them shocks, which causes them to suffer, particularly when they lose control. Even when they achieve their goals they find they are still not happy.

Rajas is the quality of change, activity and turbulence. It introduces a disequilibrium that upsets an existing balance. Rajas is motivated in its action, ever seeking a goal or an end that gives it power. While in the short term it is stimulating and provides pleasure, owing to its unbalanced nature it quickly results in pain and suffering. It is the force of passion that causes distress and conflict.

TAMAS

Tamasic types have deep-seated psychological blockages. Their energy and emotion tends to be stagnant and repressed and they don't know what their problems really are. They prefer not to deal with their problems or will not let other know about them, which only allows the problem to get worse.

Tamas is the quality of dullness, darkness, and inertia and is heavy and obstructing in its action. Tamas brings about ignorance and delusion in the mind and promotes insensitivity, sleep and loss of awareness. It possesses a downward motion that causes decay and disintegration.

(Information provided by Dr David Frawley.)

New Yoga Fusion Flow Class

2010-05-31T04:30:00.000-07:00

Pilates & Yoga for Hockey

2010-05-31T04:23:00.000-07:00

Pilates & Yoga for Hockey !

You can combine Yoga & Pilates to create a balanced programme tailored to your individual needs. Yoga & Pilates share many features e.g. certain Pilates exercises are based on Yoga poses, and both practices emphasize the importance of good breathing, awareness and of working within your abilities. North West Pilates & Yoga Centre aims to take the best of both methods, combining core strength that is the fundamental idea of Pilates with the flexibility of Yoga. Practising Pilates will bring extra strength, stability and awareness to your yoga, while practicing yoga will bring better breathing, flexibilty and relaxation to your Pilates practice.

Interview with Client Michelle Liptrot

"I have played Hockey the last 25 years, the last 15 of which for one of the best teams in the country, Bowdon Hightown. Hockey is a demanding sport, played on artificial surfaces known as "astro-turf" and involves speed and endurance and much of the movement involves twisting and turning. This puts a huge amount of pressure on the back, groin and adductors, knees and ankles. Consequently core strength is vital in ensuring that a player can compete for the duration of the season".

"It has become considerably harder to stay fit and injury free throughout the season and I have struggled with groin and adductor injuries for the latter part of the season".

"I have been attending Nisha's pilates classes for nearly 9 months and it has made such a difference. Firstly the classes are challenging and you can really focus on improving your concentration, posture and using the right muscle groups to give you the most significant improvements. In terms of my hockey, pilates has really given me a new lease of life, allowing me to stay stronger and fitter for longer, staying injury free and able to compete without any worries".
"I will certainly be carrying on with Nisha's classes and if you want to improve your core strength for whatever sport you play I would definitely recommend it!"

Norway to Slum dog Millionaire!

2010-04-07T02:34:00.001-07:00

Interview

Name and Country - Christa Powell, Norway.

Who have you been working with in Bollywood ?

"I recently performed at the Apsara Awards as a dancer alongside actors Sha Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Viveck Oberoi and actress Kareena Kapoor. This was so much fun, and the costumes were the most extravagant I have ever seen, from glittery face masks and wigs to feathered armbands and battery lit clothing! The choreographer for this years awards was Ganesh Hedge. He is one of India's top commercial choreographers and has worked with the likes of Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson.

I have also enjoyed dancing to the sets of Dj Aqeel, one of India's favourite Dj's. He is a man with load of charisma and confidence when he Dj's, and great at getting the crowd in a good mood!".

Most memorable experiences ?

"I came out to India in search for something different, something new that would tone my mind and eyes. Whether I was going to find that in dance, yoga, or the people wasn't something I felt the need to plan. I have learned a lot from being out here in a culture that is so different from home. If you're able to keep your mind clear of preconceptions and go with the flow of the city, you will soon come to love Bombay. It is a safe city with lots of opportunities (the key is to know where to look, which does take some time), and people are very friendly and easy to get to know. Most importantly, I have certainly learned a lot about myself, and I am very grateful for having had the opportunity to broaden my mind. I can't wait to visit more of India while I am here.

I am currently a member at the Kaivalyadhama Yoga centre on Marine Drive. It is a peaceful place where most of its members come for a relaxing yoga session. Everyone does their own program over seen by the teachers".

Christa Powell with Sharuh khan

Christa dances with Sharukh Khan at the Apsara Awards. Click here to see the full album.

Ask your mum this Mothers Day."Which is best Yoga or Pilates?"

2010-04-07T02:30:00.000-07:00

The exercise regime developed by Pilates did draw on some inspiration from ancient yoga positions, though the two disciplines do have some big differences. Yoga is undoubtedly the more holistic of these two health and fitness routines, while Pilates does try to attain a similar level of physical fitness aims. Pilates exercises use a series of controlled breathing and movement routines, and can be especially effective, for a good shaped body, and helping people look more lean and taller than they otherwise might.

When Pilates was developing his exercises during confinement, the only exercise equipment available was the hospital bed. Through imaginative adaptation of a few yoga positions and a bed, a system of exercises evolved over time, and the bed inspiration can be seen in the Pilates machine or reformer, the mainstay of Pilates exercise gear.

The Pilates machine makes the exercise he developed easier to learn, and to some more enjoyable too. Like yoga, Pilates does focus too on breathing, concentration, precision and control. Also, a person's own body weight serves as resistance in many exercises.

Despite the yoga influence, Pilates really only encompasses small aspects of the enormous yoga discipline, and does not try to compete with it. They are best seen as complementary to each other, and if your doctor agrees, they could be used together with good effect

Yoga puts more emphasis on flexibility, relaxation, spirituality, meditation and breathing than Pilates. Given the way Pilates exercises developed, that is no surprise. He made good, or even ingenious, use of what was available in particular circumstances for specific reasons.

Professional Dancer Christa Price in Aeroplane.

It is probably wrong to say yoga is better than Pilates, or vice versa. They are best seen as two possible disciplines in your health and fitness armoury, disciplines which may suit different people at different times.So why not do both click here for full timetable.

A Pilates Programme for Olympic skiers

2010-04-07T02:27:00.000-07:00

Well i really feel that Pilates & Yoga are being recognized internationally for their health and mental benefits.Not only Olympic skiers are using Pilates as part of their training programme,but school children in Scotland are using Yoga as part of their everyday Life.Until you have tried Pilates & Yoga,and given it chance to take effect,you cannot understand the immense changes the two can make in your everyday life.To view Scottish Children doing Yoga click here.

Margy Verba, who runs FlowMotion Pilates in Bishop, California, has worked with members of the 2006 U.S. Olympic ski team. In the spirit of Vancouver 2010 Olympic fever, she shares her behind-the-scenes look at the Pilates program she designed for skiers training for the 2006 Winter games in Torino.
Olympic Rings

"I explained that in Pilates we work from the inside out, and that I first teach the subtleties of core stabilization, disassociation, and sequential use of the spine. I was informed that the women might be willing go into those subtleties with me, but that the men needed to 'feel the burn' or I would lose their attention."

"Based on the information I had, and with both goals and constraints in mind, I developed a program with an accompanying handout describing the exercises. This handout allowed them to take the program on the road. It also allowed me to slip in a few more subtle points, such as "Never do a 10 lb. effort for a 5 lb. movement." In order to have some scheduling flexibility within their structured training program, I offered 15-minute, 30-minute and 60-minute routines. My portable mat program for the skiers included general performance-enhancer exercises as well as sport-specific exercises. To gain credibility, I also threw in a few exercises like Teaser and Side Plank Leg Kicks, that I, a nearly 50-year-old woman with graying hair could easily do, that would be a big challenge for them-exercises which require more core control than brute strength from big outer muscles". By Margi Verba

Supersize v Superskinny

2010-04-07T02:26:00.001-07:00

Channel 4 has reeled out yet another another fatty and thinny in its ongoing freak shows. In a recent show Presenter and serial dieter Anna Richardson tries out the Pilates Reformer machines as a way to get rid of the tummy bulge. To see Anna with the results of the Pilates Reformer click here

Dr Christian Jessen puts the clients through their paces.

Inmates Reduce jail sentence with Yoga ! CAN THIS BE TRUE ?

2010-02-27T04:48:00.000-08:00

Prisoners in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh are being freed early if they complete yoga courses.

For every three months spent practising posture, balance and breathing the inmates can cut their jail time by 15 days.The authorities say the lessons help to improve the prisoners' self-control and reduce aggression.Some 4,000 inmates across the state are benefiting from the scheme, and many go on to become yoga instructors.

Follow the link below to see prinsoners in action.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/8472762.stm

'Angry thoughts'

The state's inspector general of prisons, Sanjay Mane, said: "Yoga is good for maintaining fitness, calming the behaviour, controlling anger and reducing stress."When a prisoner attends yoga sessions and fulfils some other conditions, he will be considered for a remission if his jail superintendent recommends his case."Prisoners can also gain credit for attending adult literacy courses or studying for degrees.An inmate at Gwalior central jail, Narayan Sharma - who has now moved on to become an instructor - says it helps to banish the "angry thoughts" in his mind."It was these thoughts that made me commit crimes," he said."I hope that after we are released, we can use what we have learned and promote yoga in society so that people no longer commit crime."

Pilates For Women, Men Don't Read This!

2010-02-27T04:37:00.000-08:00

Incredible India

2010-01-31T09:21:00.000-08:00

1. My journey started with my cousin Bobby's wedding in New Delhi. Indian weddings are an extravaganza of colours, spices and rich food lasting four days, so it’s well to start the diet a few months in hand.

2. The Hare Krishna’s remind modern day India of its answer to life ‘The Bhagavad Gita’, Connaught Place, New Delhi.

3. Nek Chands Fantasy Rock Garden, is like falling down a rabbit hole into the labyrinthine interior of one man’s mind, created by Nek Chand using recycled junk and organic materials, the garden is a maze of twisting walkways and staircases suddenly emerging into valleys with crashing waterfalls or amphitheatres overrun by figures made of china shards. No material is wasted, from electrical sockets to colourful wine and glass, in the legions of men, animals, archways and walls with faces around every corner.

4. Mathura the land of eternal love and name given to the region where the popular god Krishna is believed to have been born and spent his early years. Mathura was once a Buddhist centre with 20 Monasteries that housed 3000 monks, but during the eighth century Buddhism began to give way to Hinduism. In 1017 most of the Buddhist temples and Hindu shrines were levelled by the Afghan warlord Mahmud of Ghazni. Nowadays the area is a religious centre full of Hindu temples that attract floods of pilgrims.

5. Bharatphur National Park - once the hunting estate of the Maharajas of Bharatphur, with daily shoots recorded of up to 4000 birds, the 29 Sq KM piece of marshland, with over 360 species, is one of the finest bird sanctuaries in the world. It has been designated as a world heritage site. The late Maharaja Brajendra Singh converted his hunting estate into a bird sanctuary in 1956 and devoted many of his retired years to establishing it. He had inherited both his title and an interest in wildlife from his deposed father, Kishan Singh, who grossly overspent his budget - 30 Rolls Royce’s, a private Jazz band and extremely costly wild animals including dozens of Lions, Elephants, Leopards and Tigers for Bharatphur’s jungles.

6. Fetephur Sikri - The Magnificent Fortified Ghost City, 40Km West of Agra, was the short lived capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. The well preserved palace buildings and the still used mosque are a superb reminder of the Mochas at their architectural peak.

7. I was waiting for my train to Kota with a local family. They have so little and are yet so happy, I gave the little girl below my red nail varnish, no doubt she will have plenty of fun once home.

8. Bundhi - with narrow Brahmin-blue lanes, assorted Temples, classic Havelis, and a picturesque lake, Bundhi is the kind of effortlessly charming Indian town where Kipling moved to write. Bundhi was the capital of a major princely state during the rajputs heyday. Although its importance dwindled with the rise of Kola during Mughal times, it remained independent until incorporation into Rajasthan in 1947. This is Nawal Sagar.

9. Udaiphur - An enchanting image of white marble palaces, placid blue lakes, attractive gardens and green hills that keep the wilderness at bay. High above the lake towers the massive palace of the Maharanas. From its rooftop gardens and balconies, you can overlook Lake Pichola, at the summer palace, adrift like a snowflake in its centre. This was the famous setting for the James bond film ‘Octopussy’.

10. Local musicians earn a crust at the side of Udaipur’s Ghats.

11. Rajsthani Moghul Art - A tradition passed down from family to family. My art lesson copying the famous painting called Radha.

12. My Yoga guru and teacher.

13. Local women gather in a huddle ready for the local Muslim festival.

14. The Muslim festival carries a Deity down to the Ghats.

16. Om Shanty Bhavan - spiritual niversity of the Brahma Kumaris. These white clad people teach that all religions lead to god and are equally valid, and that the principles of each should be studied. The university’s aim is the establishment of universal peace through ‘Impartation of spiritual knowledge and training of easy Raja Yoga meditation’. For many the teachings are intensely powerful, there are over 4500 branches in 70 countries. For others it gives off a spooky new age feel.

17. Amnervad - does size matter, local elephant transports trees along the high street; notice how tiny the car seems next to the Elephant.

18. Aina meal palace at Bhuj - The setting for the Indian film ‘Lagaan’. The remains of the 2001 Earthquake.

19. The arid grasslands to the North, South and West of Bhuj are home to a number of pastoral tribes – The Bharwood shepherds and goat herds, the Rabari camel and cattle herders, Maldhars who keep Buffaloes, Samra and Sandhi Muslim cameleers and others.

21. Local Ironmongers sit all day in flat turnout.

22. An old lady spins cotton.

23. The cotton is then woven into Shawls.

24. The Grandmas go to market.

25. A man awaits his turn at the Cobblers.

26. Mandavi - A fishing port dominated by the sea trade taking cotton, spices, rice etc. This ship will be going to Dubai.

27. Local Mandavi school children pack into a taxi.

28. The Portuguese influence in Diu is strongly shown on the local buildings.

29. Woman prepare fish for drying at Vanakbara fishing village.

30. Pot washing.

31. The original paintings in a local church.

32. Amnervad – Gandhi Ashram head was the headquarters during the long struggle for Indian independence. He founded the Ashram in 1915. On March 12th 1930 Gandhi set out on his salt march to the Gulf of Cambay in a symbolic protest. His poignant Spartan living quarters are preserved and there’s an excellent pictorial record to his life.

33. The local paper factory.

34. The extremes of India, this slum is the view from the five star Royal Meridian hotels in Ahmedabad.

35. Ahmedabad international kite festival.

SAS Train with Yoga and Pilates

2009-11-26T16:15:00.000-08:00

SAS heroes have turned to yoga to prepare the secret missions in Afghanistan. The crack regiment, which has one of the most gruelling selection tests in the world, has also begun using Pilates as a part of its rigorous training regime. As well as being excellent for building strength, both activities are viewed as ideal in helping troopers deal with mental stress in combat. But the "new age" image of yoga does not sit well with many of the regiments more macho soldiers.Our SAS source said "there was a certain amount of resistance to pilates because it was regarded as the sort of exercise women do at the women's institute."

Sunday Mirror, p27, 1/11/09

If you are using our studio and services, please click here to write your review on how you have benefited from Pilates & Yoga Lessons.

Get ready for the festive season; click here for full timetable.

Namaste,
Nisha Srivastava.

North West Pilates

Pilates For Runners

2009-10-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Running is a great aerobic exercise giving the heart and lungs a good workout. It improves the entire body, strengthening the legs and firming the buttocks, stomach and upper body. An exercise that almost anyone can do, anywhere, any time; all you need is some open space and a pair of trainers. An ideal weight bearing exercise helping to increase bone density, necessary to avoid osteoporosis and bone thinning later in life.

The most common injuries occur in the lower limbs (calves, ankles, Achilles tendon) and lower back. These problems occur due to poor technique, uneven surfaces, muscles overuse, excessive training or incorrect footwear. Running along on hard surfaces can in time, cause muscle strain and damage to the joints. Pilates for runners aims specifically to help strengthen the lower back, reducing pressure caused by constant jarring on the spine during a run.

"I have been competing in triathlons/duathlons for approximately 6 years, completing numerous events including Helvellyn Triathlon and a challenging Half Ironman in the Lake District earlier this year. My next event is Tatton Park Triathlon. I have been attending Nisha's classes for just over a year now and they have assisted me immensely in recovering
from a Sports Hernia operation allowing me to compete pain free!!!"

Client Chris Levy In action.

"An immediate and hugely important benefit for me is improved core strength. I have a weak right hip. Previously my body compensated for this by utilising muscles it shouldn't ,leading to calf strains, sciatic nerve flare ups and ITB tightness. All of which stopped me running (the real agony as any runner knows!) A strengthened core is helping me keep the hips balanced which means fewer strains, reduced tightness and happier running!"

Client-Claire Gibbs on the Trapeze Table.

"I used to regularly run four miles three times per week until I was
diagnosed with two prolapsed discs. At age 33 I did not want to have to
have an invasive operation to correct this. When I first met Nisha to
discuss rehabilitation I was struggling to walk and it was painful to
sit down. I was unsure whether I was strong enough to do Pilates. 12
months later, I am virtually pain free with better mobility than before
my injury. Although running is no longer an option for me, the
combination of walking and Pilates twice a week has left me in better
shape than before".

Client - Sarah Wolstenholme On the Ladder Barrel.

North West Pilates uses FreeIndex, a free business directory, job site and business advice centre. I get so many client referrals off this company, why not register your business and see for yourself by clicking here.

Namaste,
Nisha Srivastava
North West Pilates

2009-09-10T08:52:00.001-07:00

Bootcamp has started with outsatnding results of Taut,Toned & Tight !

Danish Ballet Dancer Visits St. Helens

2009-09-09T03:24:00.000-07:00

"Danish Ballet Dancer visits St.Helens"

Ex-Danish ballet dancer Michael Christenson flew in to host the North of England's first STOTT Pilates intensive reformer course. The three aspiring teachers Steve, Jessica and Angie were led through seven days of gruelling exercises.

History of the reformer

Joseph Pilates was interned, along with other Germans; at the outbreak of world war 1.He taught fellow prisoners a series of exercises combining physical fitness with breath control and mental acuity to increase strength and flexibility. He then spent the latter part of the war on the Isle of Man working as a hospital orderly, he helped rehabilitate patients through resistance exercise using equipment fashioned from bedsprings. The springs resemble muscle contraction and emphasize the eccentric and concentric phase of movement.

Discover Your Longest, Leanest Body With Pilates On The Ball

2009-09-09T03:20:00.000-07:00

Strengthening The Core

Combining Pilates techniques with work on the exerxise ball is one of the most effective ways of building functional strength and core stability. By introducing an element of instability, working on the ball challenges your body to coordinate your various muscle groups, especially those of your core. The exercise ball, also known as the Swiss ball, the fitball, the mediball or the stability ball, has been around since the 1930's.

Sunrise At The Gallery

Invented in Italy by toymaker Aquilino Cosani, the ball is now enjoying ever-increasing popularity as an adjunct for training. in recent years it has become standard equipment, not only for functional fitness training but for physiotherapy and rehabilitation after sprots injuries. Ball work is now as mainstream as weight-training. There are even desk workers who choose to replace their ergonomic chairs with a ball.

Swiss Ball Class In Action

Training with the ball activates the core stabilising muscles mroe quickly and effectively than any other training method. This is because the ball provides an unstable base of support. The deep muscles around the spine have to work hard to maintain alignment and keep the ball steady, and this activity leads to greater core strength and stability.

Members of St Helens Rugby Union Team join Class

Many athletes incorporate training on the ball into their daily routine. Golfing superstar Tiger Woods takes one with him wherever he goes.

Help, Ive Torn My Rotator Cuff

2009-09-09T03:15:00.000-07:00

"A torn rotator cuff can mean searing pain, slow healing, and even surgery. But Pilates/yoga can strengthen your shoulders and help prevent problems".

The supraspinatus originates on the upper scapula, just above the spine of the scapula, and inserts on the greater tuberosity of the humerus, a small lump on the outer upper part of the bone. The supraspinatus initiates shoulder abduction. If you stand in Tadasana (Mountain Pose) with your arms by your sides and then lift your arms up to a T shape for Virabhadrasana II (Warrior Pose II), the supraspinatus begins that lift. In its stabilizing function, the supraspinatus helps keep the head of the humerus from slipping down and partially out of the socket, a painful condition called subluxation. Shoulder subluxation in this direction commonly occurs when the muscle is paralyzed by a stroke.

Supraspinatus

The infraspinatus originates just below the spine of the scapula; the teres minor originates near the infraspinatus on the back of the scapula. Both cross the back of the shoulder joint to insert near the supraspinatus on the greater tuberosity of the humerus, and both are strong external rotators. If you stand in Tadasana, palms facing your body, and then turn your elbow creases forward (the palms will naturally turn forward too), you've externally rotated your shoulder--and you've just used the infraspinatus and teres minor.

Infraspinatus

To maintain the health of your rotator cuff, it's important not only to strengthen the muscles but to work on opening the chest. When the chest drops instead of opening and the fronts of the shoulders roll forward and down, your shoulder blades tip forward, which facilitates pinching between the head of the humerus and the acromion. In this position, the rotator cuff is more likely to be impinged on and strained, eventually becoming inflamed and more vulnerable to tears.

Pilates and Yoga can benefit the rotator cuff, practiced regularly; a variety of standing poses, chest openers, arm balances, and inversions can help you protect this complex and crucial part of your anatomy.

Lou Stabilizes The Shoulder Girdle in Our Yoga Class

Primrose Hills' Favourite Yogi

2009-09-09T03:11:00.000-07:00

"He's the Primrose Hill set's favourite Yogi. So when Simon Low introduces a new way to practice the Ancient Art, you know it'll be the next big thing."

Pilates teacher Nisha Srivastava has just spent an Easter retreat with Simon Low. The retreat was held at Bore's Place Organic Farm, Seven Oakes, Kent.

"Standing in a renovated barn with fellow yogis Simon proceeded to guide the group through a flowing sequence of movements, its different from mainstream yoga this is "Yin and Yang" yoga -the latest rereading of the ancient Indian system of personal development that aims to balance body, mind and spirit".

It combines physical postures (asanas) with controlled breathing(pranayama),but in several ways it is unique: the program combines a balanced number of passive asanas inspired by Chinese Taoist yoga(the yin part)and an energetic, flowing sequence that will challenge the most experienced students(the yang part).

"Each morning a fellow yogi glided through the corridors of the old Tudor manor house awakening us with the tingling of Tibetan bells. We proceeded to take a two hour silence walk through the rural country side marching like Buddhist monks one behind the other, before commencing our yoga practice in the old renovated barn.

I will now be adapting elements of the the yin and yang into my Pilates classes.

Stress And The Flying Yogi

2009-09-09T03:05:00.000-07:00

Stress and the flying Yogi

Stress effects the entire population crossing cultures, class and creed. It affects everyone from the working mother to the stockbroker at the stock exchange.In small doses stressors can help give increased energy, and alertness. Even helping to keep us to focus on the problem at hand. This type of stress is good. People may refer to the experience of this type of stress as feeling "pumped" or "wired."

Do you feel stressed with the present recession and petrol Crisis ? All the more reason for you to continue your Yoga and Pilates Practice !

Ariel Yoga in New Orleans

Signs of strain that must be taken seriously:

Headaches
Ringing in the ears or frequent head noises
Frequent use of antacids or other self prescribed drugs
Palpitations and chest pain
Frequent heartburn, stomach cramps,dirrohea,being full of gas, unable to swallow
Trembling under any extra pressure, leg cramps or pain, twitching in limbs
Feeling that you may pass out
Getting any illness that is around

Signs of strain in intellectual function:

Having frequent thick cotton wool head
Less of former reliable memory
A new inability to reach satisfactory decisions
New difficulty in thinking around problems
New difficulty in dismissing problems from the mind
Insomnia

Signs of strain in emotional health:

A feeling of being very low or dulled
A shut down in all emotions except anger and irritation
All joy, laughter and pleasure have dried up
Active love and caring have lessened or disappeared
Tears seem very near frequently for no reason.

The people of New Orleans are recovering well after hurricane Katrina, although there is still a distinct lack of tourists. They have turned all their negatives into positive stressors. I was lucky enough to find a newly opened yoga studio.

Sarah the bobcat teaches Ariel yoga, this requires great core stability from Pilates and good flexibility from yoga.

A No Pilates Zone!

2009-09-09T03:01:00.000-07:00

"A No Pilates Zone"

This story was recently reported in the NY Times and seemed surprising. Why would a city declare a no-Pilates zone?

It turns out, a certain area in Santa Monica, Califonia (a wide traffic median to be specific) in the city was attracting too many physically fit and motivated exercisers and thus too much noise! While walking and running is allowed on the median, any loitering for sit-ups, kickboxing, Pilates, or Yoga stretching is forbidden.

A No Pilates Zone

Mr. Davis strode from his vehicle, stopping just feet from the wide traffic median where Kieran Clarke was clearly breaking the law. "Sorry, sir," he said, "I need to inform you that this area is for walking and jogging only." Mr. Clarke, who had been working his abdominals, stood up and quietly walked away.
That warning the other day was among hundreds that have been issued in a culturally tumultuous crackdown by Santa Monica officials against violators of a city ordinance, rarely enforced till now, that bars congregating on traffic medians.

North West Pilates social network, click a link:
http://www.pilates4sport.com
http://www.myspace.com/northwestpilatesandyoga

Yoga At The YMCA

2009-09-09T02:52:00.000-07:00

What is Yoga?

The word yoga means "union" in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated. We can think of the union occurring between the mind, body and spirit. What is commonly referred to as "yoga" can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word asana, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses. Asana is only one of the eight "limbs" of yoga, the majority of which are more concerned with mental and spiritual well being than physical activity. In the West, however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.

Physical Benefits of Yoga

Flexibility: Stretching your tight body in new ways will help it to become more flexible, bringing greater range of motion to muscles and joints. Over time, you can expect to gain flexibility in your hamstrings, back, shoulders, and hips.

Strength: Many yoga poses require you to support the weight of your own body in new ways, including balancing on one leg (such as in Tree Pose) or supporting yourself with your arms (such as in Downward Facing Dog). Some exercises require you to move slowly in and out of poses, which also increases strength.

Muscle tone: As a by-product of getting stronger, you can expect to see increased muscle tone. Yoga helps shape long, lean muscles.

Pain Prevention: Increased flexibility and strength can help prevent the causes of some types of back pain. Many people who suffer from back pain spend a lot of time sitting at a computer or driving a car. That can cause tightness and spinal compression, which you can begin to address with yoga. Yoga also improves your alignment, both in and out of class, which helps prevent many other types of pain.

Better Breathing: Most of us breathe very shallowly into the lungs and don't give much thought to how we breathe. Yoga breathing exercises, called Pranayama, focus the attention on the breath and teach us how to better use our lungs, which benefits the entire body. Certain types of breath can also help clear the nasal passages and even calm the central nervous system, which has both physical and mental benefits.

Our Staff

All our staff are student teachers of "The British Wheel of Yoga" and are fully insured to teach.

Lou

Dani

Lou's Class is Thursdays 7-8.30pm, Dani's Class is 12-1.30pm at the YMCA.

Get Your Jeans To Fit With The V2 Max!

2009-09-09T02:43:00.000-07:00

Press Release-New Pilates V2 Max Reformer

The STOTT PILATES® V2 Max Plus™ Reformer is revolutionizing rehabilitation programming within the fitness industry.
This latest piece of equipment to emerge from STOTT PILATES has been designed to help clients work against very gentle tension and build up incrementally as strength increases.
The feedback from those in the industry who engage in rehab has been gratifying, The V2 Max Plus Rehab Reformer takes the monotony out of rehab and keeps clients challenged and motivated over the course of their sessions.

Not only are clients seeing the therapeutic benefits to working out on the V2 Max Plus Rehab Reformer, but it also helps transition them into more advanced conditioning as they improve both physically and mentally.

The V2 Max Plus offers restriction-free movement and limitless programming possibilities. For a superior workout, this piece of equipment allows the body to emulate the free, multi-dimensional movement of daily life. Its innovative vertical frame pulley system accommodates three-dimensional range of motion, maintaining workout flow and providing even, constant resistance without jarring.

The V2 Max Plus multi-tasks as a Mat, Reformer and Cadillac, delivering up to 500 exercises to expand group and private programming options. This all-in-one unit allows older clients and rehab patients to work on balance while kneeling, lunging and standing - and is higher off the ground for easier mounts and dismounts.

To see the innovative V2 Max Plus in action, click on these links:

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=E9CmqKoLveQ

Manchester Bus Route Does Pilates

2009-09-09T02:38:00.000-07:00

North West Pilates & Yoga Centre

A bizarre government-funded campaign is being launched to encourage people to exercise while they're waiting for a bus. According to the campaigns organisers, those minutes spent at the bus stop watching the traffic go by could be spent more usefully by standing on one leg, pointing your toes or clenching your buttocks.

But the latest attempt to get Britain fit has been slammed by an MP as "a shocking waste of taxpayer's money". And one angry passenger said last night: "fares are ridiculously high as it is. So why don't they use the money they're spending on this nonsense to cut the cost of bus travel?" Leaflets and posters setting out six Pilates style exercise moves to do at the bus stop are being distributed to passengers travelling on buses between Blackburn and Manchester.

Anyone concerned about looking ridiculous as they balance on one leg in the middle of the street are reassured that the exercises are discreet and that there will be others doing just the same all along route. Part of the every stop helps campaign, the leaflet tells passengers: "healthy living is all about having a good diet and getting the right amount of physical exercise. Make exercising on the X41 part of your everyday bus travel. The exercise are easy and fun to do and discreet. The campaign is part of a project funded by the government higher education funding council for England".

Pilates At The Bus Stop!

Organisers claim it will help people with busy lives to fit exercise into there day and avoid health problems such as heart disease and obesity. But Tory MP Philip Davies lashed out at the move. He asked: "is this April 1st ? The government is virtually bankrupt and yet it is spending its last few pounds encouraging people to do Pilates at bus stops. 'It is the nanny state gone completely mad and shocking waste of taxpayer's money".

However, Les Lumsdon, director of the institute of transport and tourism at the University of Central Lancashire, which is promoting the scheme, said: the response from passengers has been very positive. "Many peoples have busy lives and struggle to fit regular work outs into their day. Were giving them information needed so they can choose to add value to the time spent using public transport. Eventually, we'd like to see pilates extended to other bus routes and train journeys. And Russell Revill, managing director of the bus company Transdev, said: "We thought it was a good idea. Doing exercises while waiting for the bus is a good way to pass the time and beneficial to your health, too".

The Lumbar Low Down

2009-09-09T02:34:00.000-07:00

"The Lumbar Low-down"

The lower back is a fulcrum for the rest of the body, acting as the hinge that connects the upper and lower body. The muscles, vertebrae, disks, and ligaments in the lower back can twist and bend forward, backward, and from side to side. Because of this wide range of motion, the area absorbs a lot of stress during everyday movement.

Liverpool/St. Helens Rugby Team In New Studio
Members of Liverpool /St.Helens Rugby team

So how do you stretch and strengthen these muscles?

Trikonasana (Triangle Pose), Dandasana (Staff Pose), and forward bends are particularly good, because they work the muscles of the abdomen and along the sides of the torso in addition to those of the lower back.

In addition, Trikonasana also strengthens an important back muscle called the quadratus lumborum, which connects the hip to the rib cage and allows you to bend sideways. It also helps one side of the pelvis lift higher than the other. You use it repeatedly during any activity in which you shift your body weight from side to side.

Bridge
Teacher Nisha Srivastava takes group to Bridge

Poses such as Dandasana and forward bends help stretch not only the back muscles but also the hamstrings (along the backs of the thighs), helping relieve tension in the lower back. They also teach you to extend through the torso and tip the top of the pelvis forward, so the back can move through its normal range of motion. This is important for the lower back muscles to function optimally.

There's a relationship between the length of a muscle and the strength that it generates, If a muscle cannot move along its normal full range of motion, it can't generate the optimal power.

www.pilates4sport.com

Enquiries 01744-751115
077100-78299

Sports Massage

2009-09-09T02:32:00.000-07:00

Sports Massage

The purpose of sports massage is to restore the full potential of your muscular system, to relieve problems and prevent injury. It covers the manipulation, management and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body's muscles, ligaments and tendons. Sports massage can be an important addition to your workout and training, helping achieve your performance goals with minimum injury and pain.

A massage after training can help you recover two or three times faster, flushing out the lactic acid and build up of toxins in the muscles. The purpose of sports massage is to restore the full potential of your muscular system, to relieve problems and prevent injury. It covers the manipulation, management and rehabilitation of the soft tissues of the body's muscles, ligaments and tendons.

Ideally, getting a massage once a week is optimal, supporting your fitness or sports programme, improving flexibility and range of motion, relieving tired and sore muscles, speeding up recovery from strenuous physical exertion.
Sports massage is a benefit to anybody, not just sports people. It helps to treat muscle problems of all kinds, not just those of sports professionals.

Sports massage has many potential benefits. Its primary aim is to restore full function to muscles and other soft tissues. This can simply mean easing the tension build up in your shoulders due to long hours in the office or restoring maximum performance to an over trained muscle group of an athlete.

Wayne Turner

Over the last three years Wayne has trained and worked as a sports masseur and therapist. He has consistently achieved a high standard of service with clients.

Expert at carefully analyzing the needs of each customer and creating an appropriate, individualized strategy. I am approachable, easy to get on with and have a healthy interest in sports, which include cycling, running and attending the gym five days a week. This means I have a sympathetic approach to sports and non-sports injuries.

Qualifications

* FA Certificate in treatment and management of injuries in football - qualified 5th October 2005
* Certificate in ultrasound techniques - qualified 9th July 2005
* VTCT Standard: Sports massage - qualified 30th September 2004
* Advanced massage - qualified 30th September 2004
* Prepare body massage - qualified 30th September 2004
* The FA Level 2 and 3 in the Treatment and Management of Injuries in Football

To Book Your Sports Massage
Tel: 07984 778455

The History Of Yoga

2009-09-09T02:22:00.000-07:00

History Of Yoga

The Sanskrit word yoga is translated as 'union' between mind, body and spirit.

In our hectic modern world many people are taking 'time out' to practice yoga - a system of philosophy that originated in India 5,000 years ago. Everyone can practice yoga, regardless of age, sex or ability.

Yoga offers us a holistic approach to body, mind and spirit, which can provide us with the 'tools' to cope with the challenges of daily life. Yoga can also complement medical science and therapy for specific conditions.

Real Men Do Yoga

More older adults-including men-are now taking their place on yoga mats. According to a study, 18.4 percent of practitioners are now over age 55.

Researchers have found regular practice leads to reduced incidence of chronic back pain, improved sleep quality and mood; a better sense of well-being and quality of life; improvement in heart health, rheumatoid arthritis and type 2 diabetes.
Read full article at AARP website ....

About the BWY British Wheel Of Yoga
The British Wheel of Yoga is a registered charity and is the largest yoga organisation in the country, running for 40 years. It is members-based and organised into 11 regions. All our staff are student teachers, and are BWY certified.

They are also recognised by the Central Council for Physical Recreation (CCPR) and Sport England as the national Governing Body for Yoga in Great Britain. This recognition was not conferred automatically but was the result of a rigorous submission process lasting over a year during which other yoga organisations were considered. They represent the UK at the European Federation of National Yoga Organisations and are a leading member of the European Union of Yoga.

Twitter

2009-09-09T02:20:00.000-07:00

If you are using our studio and services, Please Click Here to write your review on how you have benefited from Pilates & Yoga Lessons. To View Our Latest Pilates Photos, Click Here.

St Helens RUFC Do Pilates

2009-09-09T02:14:00.000-07:00

Rugby is an extremely high-contact sport. Injuries tend to occur during scrums, where players on either side compete for his ball by locking heads, arms and shoulders with each of their team members and the opposing team. This poses considerable risk to the neck and shoulders as well as causing minor contusions and lacerations. The most common rugby injuries are sprains to muscles and tendons. Many of the injuries in rugby are similar to those in football.

To view the photo album of Simon Worsely (Fly Half), Jan Lourens (Prop), Phillip Kearns (Captain) and Phillip Battersby (Hooker), click here.

2009-09-09T02:04:00.000-07:00

Over the summer, i went to see my client Ciaran Kellgren play Peter Pan at Royal Kensington Gardens, London. I spoke backstage with him to find out that Prince Charles, Camilla, Guy Richie and Sir Ian McKellen had been to watch it. Funnily enough Michael Jackson had booked a viewing as well, but did not live long enough to take up this experience.

JM Barrie's foray into children's imagination has had many incarnations - from the original stage play to films, musicals, television and even various cartoons.But this new production is markedly different. For one thing, it is held in a huge tent of the type where agricultural shows are held, a mighty bullring-cum-theatre-in-the-round. And, technically, it works on all levels............The most stunning aspect of this is the massive 360-degree digital screen, projected in 3D, which is wrapped around the whole pavilion. It works magically when the Darling children, whose adventure all this is, fly over the rooftops of London on the way to Never Never Land. We swoop through Admiralty Arch, past Nelson's blind eye and eventually right up the Thames, lined with seagoing vessels of all types. It is an immensely thrilling ride.Ciaran Kellgren is a lively, occasionally petulant Peter Pan. On his aerial harness, he swoops around the theatre with considerable agility and he brings credence to the role of the eternal boy. ". Paul Callan Daily Express

He is training at the North West Pilates Centre on Claughton Street in order to prevent injuries when he embarks on the run of shows of the £2.7 Million production of Peter Pan in May..." St Helens Star

To view the full story of Ciaran's pre training in St Helens, Click Here.

The Effects of Yoga

2009-07-16T08:58:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to receive this bulletin of the effects of yoga, I’m sure you'll all agree they are most defiantly true.

1. A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than from fear.
2. An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
3. Loss of interest in judging others.
4. Loss of interest in judging yourself.
5. Loss of interest in interpreting your actions of others.
6. Loss of interest in conflict.
7. Loss of ability to worry (a very serious symptom).
8. Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.
9. Feeling connected with others and with nature
10. Frequent attacks of smiling for no apparent reason at all.
11. Increased tendency to let things happen, rather than make them happen.
12. Increased susceptibility to giving and receiving love.

WOW. If you have more than one of the above symptoms, please be advised that your condition may to be advanced to return o your former self. If you become exposed to someone exhibiting these symptoms, remain exposed at your own risk.

Bend It Like Beckham

2009-06-29T04:54:00.000-07:00

David Beckham is hoping to stretch his career out until he’s 40 — by doing body-bending Pilates exercises.

The England star, 34 — subject of hit film ‘Bend It Like Beckham’ — says he is in his best shape in years due to an hour-long daily routine.

He is desperate to show Three Lions boss Fabio Capello he is fit enough for next year’s World Cup in South Africa, and play on for years afterwards.

Becks was introduced to Pilates — a stretching and breathing routine particularly popular with women — on loan at AC Milan.

He said: “I do an hour of Pilates a day. The medical set-up at Milan is fantastic and fitness-wise I am the best I have been for a long time.

The Italian giants insist all their players take up Pilates as it helps with balance and suppleness.

The fitness regime has reduced Becks’ body fat from 13.7 per cent to a super-toned 8.5 per cent.

He played the whole of England’s 6-0 thrashing of Andorra at Wembley earlier this month — his first full match for his country in three years. A source said: “David covered every blade of grass.

“He might get a bit of stick from the England lads as Pilates is seen as a bit of a girlie fitness fad — but he won’t care if he gets to South Africa.”

The midfielder returns to LA Galaxy next month. He and wife Victoria, 35, have signed up for Pilates classes at Los Angeles’ exclusive Sports Club.

German Joseph Pilates created the exercises early last century. They are practised by more than ten million, including England’s cricketers and New Zealand’s rugby
team.