Joseph Pilates
Described as “the best kept secret by ballet dancers and actors”, Pilates is a form of mind–body exercise pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates (born 1880 in Germany).

Joseph Pilates was a sickly child, and came to England in 1912 at the age of 32. He studied Yoga, Zen Meditation, and the rigorous exercise regimens of the Ancient Greeks and Romans. By the age of 14 he had gained enough strength to become an accomplished diver, skier, fencer and gymnast.

Joseph Pilates also became a boxer, worked as a circus performer and trained British Policeman in the art of Self Defence. While imprisoned with other German nationals during the War, he worked as medical orderly, teaching fellow prisoners a series of exercises combining physical fitness, breathing control and mental acuity to increase strength and flexibility. After the war he continued to pioneer his unique approach to fitness, moved to America where he set up the Pilates Studio in New York City teaching “Controllogy.”

See a Controllogy quote

Early devotees of Joseph Pilates include such dance legends as: George Ballanchine, Hanya Holm and Martha Graham. Today, Pilates followers include dancers, athletes, physiotherapists, fitness trainers, health-care professionals, sportsmen and women. You may have heard of Sasha Cohen (Olympic skater) and Jenny Thompson (the most decorated American female Olympian in history).

There are more than 500 mind-body exercises to develop strong, flexible muscles without adding bulk. With an emphasis on breathing and torso strength, known as core strength, the exercises ensure improved posture and reduced stress and reduced risk of injury.

Many of the exercises performed in today’s classes owe their origins to this method.

The Pilates method is not just for rehabilitation. Although ideal for strengthening the weak and challenging the strong, the exercises also progress beyond the mat to incorporate specialist equipment – all at a pace that would rival any high energy fitness class!

Lorna J
With more than 10 years teaching exercise to very young children, younger and older adults and the more senior person. Lorna has also taught Step Reebok and Body Conditioning in local schools, Body Conditioning and Flexibility to Footballers, Rugby Players and Golfers - and during the past few years, Pilates.

Lorna has a certificate of Distinction in Nutrition for Instructors, trainers and Sports Coaches, and made regular presentations to local groups and schools on the benefits of health-related fitness and weight-management.

Lorna has always been interested in the concept of back care and she now concentrates on specialist one-to-one tuition for rehabilitation, and small group tuition.

Lorna is always searching for new and innovative ways to prevent and manage back pain through lifestyle changes and, with the constant support of her husband and consultant in osteopathic technique, Barry Carter BSc, Lorna has developed the system even further to become the Lorna J Way to better back health.

Lorna’s unique blend of Pilates, Yoga and the basic principles of a safe exercise formula, will enable the regular participant to progress and improve their general health and well-being.

“Lorna is a wonderful teacher who has tailor made exercises for our small class' special needs. Her sense of humour has made the class so much fun that we not only feel exercised and relaxed afterwards, but regenerated with laughter for the week ahead.”