ABOUT US
Pilates is now one of the most popular forms of exercise, with over 12 million people practicing worldwide. Here in the UK, its appeal has been ever growing since it was introduced from America by Alan Herdman in the 1970s. The technique was originally developed in the early 1900s by it’s namesake Joseph Pilates. Of course methods and techniques have been refined over the decades, but the basic principles remain the same. Pilates is a form of exercise designed to elongate, strengthen and revitalise the whole human body. Pilates concentrates on stretching and moving your body to increase balance, flexibility, core strength and muscle tone.
The beauty of Pilates is that almost anyone can participate regardless of their fitness level or age. The benefits of Pilates are threefold.
- It increases general fitness by working on key muscle groups and the skeletal system.
- It has significant health benefits, for example an improvement in bone density and blood circulation. In addition it is hugely helpful as a rehabilitation process for bone or muscle injury. It is also a popular exercise for anyone suffering from arthritis and osteoporosis.
- It will improve overall well-being. Pilates will make you feel better and stronger as well as improving your concentration.
About Melissa
It is of paramount importance when choosing a Pilates class that the teacher is fully qualified and experienced, rather than simply a Pilates enthusiast.
MELISSA
Melissa Reinke heads up the Pilates classes with her fellow teachers at her studio in St John’s Wood, North West London. Melissa is a fully qualified Pilates Equipment and Matwork Instructor having completed the Pilates Foundation UK Training Course in 2006 – the most highly accredited and respected qualification in the UK. She is also a level 3 Personal trainer.
Melissa has an extensive repertoire and enjoys teaching classical Pilates. Melissa has also trained extensively with James D’Silva and his Garuda equipment having completed the Garuda teacher training. As well as providing a strong workout and encouraging strength, flexibility and body-toning, Melissa also has an extensive knowledge of Pilates for injury rehabilitation and pre/post-pregnancy.
Melissa has trained with some of Pilates’ most notable individuals who have had the secrets of Pilates passed down by Joseph Pilates himself. This thorough training enables a fully comprehensive and safe Pilates class using every piece of equipment.