At Stirling Fitness we teach Fitness Pilates which is the creation of Nottingham based Fitness Professional Rachel Holmes.

Fitness Pilates is probably the most dynamic and exciting of the different styles of Pilates, the emphasis being on strength, flexibility and functional movement and less so on the slow, deep breathing. Music varies according to participants - look out for 80s Rock Music on a Tuesday at 7pm in Men on Mats or 'Chillout' tones in the morning classes.

Pilates was created by German Joseph Pilates around the turn of the 20th century. He had already left Germany and was living in the UK when WW1 broke out and he was interned with fellow Germans on the Isle of Man. It was here that he devised his rehabilitation exercises for POWs using mattresses and bed springs for equipment. He managed to avoid being signed up to train the Nazi army for WW2, and fled to New York where he set up his own gym with wife Clara. The exercises were known to be tough and effective and the New York ballet were his main clientel.

Pilates said 'Physical Fitness is the first requisite of Happiness' and I believe he is correct.

In Fitness Pilates we focus on strengthening the core or middle area of the body but the body works as a chain of movement so we do concentrate on the body as a whole. Exercises are mainly static and floor based, so there is no 'jumping around' or complicated routines.

Pilates is suitable for beginners and all classes can be adapted to suit your experience and fitness.

Benefits include:

• Stronger, leaner stomach or abdominals

• Stronger more flexible back, usually reducing or even eliminating back pain

• Better posture, preventing future back problems and improving 'round shoulders'

• Improved flexibility, preventing injury and increasing strength and performance in other sports

• Stronger pelvic floor muscles

• Relaxation, improving posture and energy levels

• Fun and friendship - classes are relaxed and friendly

Pilates is your Back Insurance Policy!

Classes run as follows (just Pilates timetable)

One-to-one sessions can be arranged and are useful for complete beginners or more senior participants. Men and Ladies are welcome in all classes.

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