WITH every year comes a new fitness craze. Notable holders of the title include zumba, hot yoga and no frills gyms – all of which are still part of many peoples’ keep fit regimes.
The Manchester Pilates Studio is equipped with eight Pilates reformers plus a rather captivating Cadillac reformer
The Manchester Pilates StudioThis year, Pilates has really come into its own. The fitness system was originally developed in the early 20th century but in 2013 it’s about building core strength and perfecting your posture with the aid of some very snazzy looking kit called a reformer.
The Manchester Pilates Studio opened its doors this month but owner Sarah Gallimore has been ahead of the trend since 2007 when she opened her original studio in Hale. After six years of sustained demand and success at The Hale Pilates Studio, she felt 2013 was the right time to expand her services and reach by opening a dedicated space in the city centre.
Stretching on the Pilates reformers at The Manchester Pilates Studio
Located just behind Trevor Sorbie hairdressers in Spring Gardens, The Manchester Pilates Studio is equipped with eight Pilates reformers plus a rather captivating Cadillac reformer (more on that later). The studio also has enough space for those who prefer mat Pilates and classes are offered as groups, in semi-private or in one on one sessions.
Each class on offer has been designed with specific needs and clients in mind, including; back care, runners, cyclists, skiers, pre natal and even breast cancer care as well as for those who choose Pilates to help improve their general health and wellbeing. The aim is to motivate and inspire; from the beginner level all the way through to pro.
Heading along for a sneak preview, we had the chance to try out the cardio jumpboard class on the reformers. A board is slotted to the end of the reformer’s carriage to provide a stable base from which to ‘jump’ from. It’s basically jumping lying down and it’s great for strengthening the core, thighs and increasing heart rate and endurance. Oh and it’s a lot of fun too.
Reformer sessions can also encorporate the use of gym balls for extra resistance and at the end of your workout allow you to stretch thoroughly.
Jumpboard at The Manchester Pilates Studio
Sarah is supported by a team of highly qualified instructors, many of whom have graduated from some of the most respected Pilates teacher training facilities in the world. Each instructor brings with them their own expertise and experience as well as an undoubted passion for what they do.
One such teacher is Alexandra Lamb Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, she has over a decade of Pilates experience and her grace and poise proves so.
During our visit, Alexandra demonstrated the types of exercises that can be performed on the lone Cadillac reformer. This contraption is undoubtedly the finest piece of Pilates equipment one can own, and as Alexandra demonstrates in the video below, it can be used for everything from basic stretching to advanced acrobatics and the resistance work against gravity helps the user develop strength, flexibility, endurance and posture.
But don't take our word for it. Try it for yourself.
The Manchester Pilates Studio will be open to the general public from Monday 11 November 2013. It is offering an introductory promotion where new clients can try their first class for just £12.50, or if they buy a package of either five or ten classes then they will receive a free 30 minute postural assessment.
Visit themanchesterpilatesstudio.co.uk for more information on classes.
The Manchester Pilates Studio
19 Spring Gardens
Manchester
M2 1FB
