The Power of Pilates

Article from March 2010 edition of "The Archer" - East Finchley's local newspaper

A new business has opened its doors in Church Lane and its fully-equipped studio has been piquing the interest of local residents. Pilates Nation group founder Alison Goodman says: “People have been popping their heads in and asking what it’s all about. Several sign up, while others just call by to welcome me to the community.”

In full view of the main window lies a giant, bed-shaped contraption, curiously named the ‘Cadillac’, decked with a bewildering array of paraphernalia. Further into the studio, rows of ‘towers’ (the apparatus) and ‘mats’ (for floor exercises) stretch into the main room where classes take place.

Alison put your ARCHER representatives through their paces in a series of carefully explained exercises, which were surprisingly challenging for two physically fit girls in their early 30s.
Improved strength, stability and flexibility, better posture, flatter stomach, stress relief, as well as relief from joint and back problems are just some of the many proven benefits of the practice invented by German-born Joseph Hubertus Pilates in the early 1900s.

Meeting different needs “Everyone’s needs are different,” explained Alison. “Three years ago I worked with a client suffering from a brain tumour, who had lost the feeling in one side of his body.” She is considering putting on a special class for men, whose needs are different to those of women. “Men tend to be less flexible than women, but have greater physical strength,” she said.

For more information, visit www.pilatesnation.co.uk or telephone 020 8444 5244.