Chair Pilates Launch: Your Path to Better Movement

Chair Pilates with Michelle at Pillar Pilates in Dover

I am thrilled to announce the launch of my new weekly Chair Pilates class, starting on July 23rd with a *FREE session for everyone! Whether you’re looking to enhance your health, stay active, or enjoy a social and supportive environment, Chair Pilates could be just what you need.

Why Chair Pilates?

Chair Pilates is a gentle yet effective workout designed to help you recondition your body, promoting ease and confidence in movement—all from the comfort of a chair! This class is perfect for beginners, seniors, individuals with limited mobility, or anyone preferring a more gentle workout. It’s a safe, low-impact routine that can boost strength, increase bone density, enhance flexibility, balance, and posture, and help reduce pain.

Chair Pilates Venues:

  • Hougham Village Hall, The Street, Dover CT15 7BG
    • Tuesdays 11:15 am – 12:00 pm
    • Free car park on-site (when full, use street parking).

More venues will be added to the schedule soon!

What to Expect:

In each 45-minute session, you’ll experience a welcoming and supportive environment. Here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll do:

  • Warm-up Exercises: We start with gentle movements to prepare your body.
  • Seated Pilates Routine: A comprehensive workout targeting key muscle groups, with modifications to suit your pace.
  • Stretching: Gentle stretching to enhance flexibility and promote relaxation.

Modifications will be provided, allowing you to proceed at a comfortable pace.

Targeted Muscles and Their Importance:

In Chair Pilates, we focus on several key muscle groups essential for maintaining overall health and functionality:

  • Neck Muscles: Improves posture, helps correct muscle imbalances, and reduces strain.
  • Shoulder and Upper Back Muscles: Supports arm movements and shoulder stability, vital for daily activities like lifting and housework.
  • Core Muscles: Enhances stability, balance, and posture; reduces back pain.
  • Spinal Mobility: Increases flexibility, reduces stiffness and pain, and improves range of motion.
  • Arms: Important for daily tasks like lifting and carrying; prevents muscle atrophy as we age.
  • Gluteal Muscles (Glutes): Essential for hip and knee health, promoting good posture and reducing lower back pain.
  • Hip Adductors/Abductors: Stabilizes hips, improves mobility, and decreases the risk of injury.
  • Knees: Improves knee stability and mobility, helping reduce the risk of injury.
  • Quadriceps: Crucial for standing, walking, and knee strength.
  • Hamstrings: Supports hip and knee movements, essential for walking and climbing.
  • Tibialis and Calf Muscles: Controls foot movement and balance, helping prevent falls; improves knee health, and aids in walking uphill.
  • Foot and Ankle Muscles: Enhances balance and foot strength; reduces the risk of injury.

Safety and Preparation:

Before starting the class, ensure you have completed the Health Questionnaire (PAR-Q) online or request a form upon arrival. Please consult with your GP or healthcare professional if you have any health concerns or are unsure if this class is suitable for you.

  • Arrival: Please arrive a few minutes early.
  • Health Questionnaire (PAR-Q): Complete online here or request a paper form before the session.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring a water bottle or use the kitchen tap.
  • Comfortable Clothing: Wear clothes that allow a full range of motion. A cushion for back support is optional.
  • Listen to Your Body: Avoid pushing beyond your comfort level and stop if you feel any pain.

Consistency Encouragement:

Regular exercise significantly improves physical and mental health, boosts balance, strength, and flexibility, and reduces the risk of falls and stress. Regular participation in Chair Pilates classes, along with dedicated practice outside of class, will maximize these benefits and contribute to your long-term well-being. Feel free to ask me any questions about your progress or any concerns you may have.

How to Book:

For more information or to book your spot on the chair, use the online booking system. If you prefer, you can also contact me directly:

*Spaces are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment. Future classes cost £6 per session. I understand that not everyone has internet access, so feel free to contact me directly to secure your spot.

I look forward to meeting you all on the chair!

Michelle 🙂