Meet Andrea Bird
Mat Pilates Instructor
Hello, I'm Andrea and I've spent my life working with bodies: as a dancer and dance teacher, as an actor, singer, and teacher of Speech & Drama, as a holistic massage therapist, and as a Pilates Instructor.
I am passionate about natural and healthy ways of living and the simple joy to be found in being able to move easily and well. Yet many people today suffer from occupational, lifestyle or age-related stiffness and discomfort that could be eased by exercise.
I attended my first Pilates class over twenty years ago, and swiftly realised just how beneficial and profound its effect was - how I left each class feeling better than when I went in. Of the many forms of exercise I have tried down the years, Pilates is the safest and single most beneficial. It supports and complements all other forms of exercise - or, if you are unused to exercise, simply makes everyday tasks easier - and is accessible to anyone of any age who is open to trying it. I became a Mat Pilates Instructor because I wanted to share its benefits with a wider population.
I regularly attend classes myself and continue to study, taking courses and workshops (Pilates Foundation, Body Control, Pure Moves, Future Fit) in constant search of knowledge, inspiration and fresh ways of teaching.
"To neglect one's body for any other advantage in life is the greatest of follies"
Arthur Schopenhauer
About Pilates
How Pilates works . . .
Alignment
Understanding and applying the principles of correct posture and alignment can instantly improve energy levels and promote a sense of well being.
Breath
Breathing is central to life, and lateral breathing is at the heart of Pilates. Through paying attention to how we breathe, Pilates can improve sleep, stamina and vitality.
Centreing
Developing a strong centre - or core - is a fundamental of Pilates. Improving core strength helps protect the spine against injury, improves balance and bodily control and (for the body conscious) sculpts and tones the stomach muscles .
Mobility and Suppleness
Joints are mobilised to encourage
greater ease over a wider range of movement,
and soft tissue is gently stretched (lengthened) then released to
improve flexibility.
Strength and Stamina
Strength and stamina are gradually increased through performing carefully designed exercises which challenge isolated or selective
groups of muscles.
Mind and Body
Developing techniques of concentration, precision, co-ordination and control, mind and body work together to re-balance and restore the body to its natural best.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
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Increased flexibility and strength of the spine
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Increased mobility of all major joints and increased stability of joints
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Improved posture
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Improved balance and co-ordination
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Increased stamina and energy
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Stronger muscles (especially gluteals, leg muscles, upper arms, back, abdominals and pelvic floor)
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Greater core strength & stability
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A flatter stomach & more toned outline
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More efficient breathing and management of respiratory conditions
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Reduced stress levels
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Stronger immune system
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Greater bodily awareness
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Improved self esteem and confidence
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Reduction in lower back pain
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Reduced risk of injury
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Improved sleep patterns
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A feeling of general health and well-being
Classes & Options
Group Classes
Weekly group classes are a fun and sociable way to experience Pilates. Classes are held in the Shaftesbury, Gillingham and Sturminster areas on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
All equipment can be provided - though post-Covid it is best to provide your own mat if you can.
1 to 1 Sessions
Alternatively, a starter one to one, one to twos, or private small group session with family or friends can be arranged if preferred. Speak to Andrea to discuss your requirements.
Whichever class option you choose, individual attention is guaranteed because class numbers are limited and no two individuals are the same. For class details, or to discuss your situation, please contact Andrea using the button below.
Individual attention
Current Pilates Classes & Venues
Each lesson you will be guided through a sequence of gentle yet challenging exercises that help improve posture, balance, mobility, strength and suppleness.
Marnhull Methodist Church
near Sturminster
Tuesdays 9.30 - 10.30 am
11.00 - 12.00 midday
Fifehead Magdalen Village Hall
near Shaftesbury
Thursdays 9.30 - 10.30 am
5.30 - 6.30 pm
East Stour Village Hall
near Gillingham
Fridays 11.00 - 12.00 pm
If you have any questions or require further information please get in touch using the contact button and I will get back to you as soon possible.
Testimonials
Thank you for the exercises you have suggested to help with the swollen leg and ankle problem. Those exercises look as if they could be really beneficial, so today is the first day of the new regimen. I believe in challenging my limits and you are very good in encouraging us to take a short break if we are finding things too much, or suggesting exercises with two levels of difficulty. I do enjoy the classes and I can only say that when they are over I feel so incredibly physically relaxed that it feels like floating on air.
You have one very satisfied customer here.
~ John S
The joy of your classes is how you always mix it up and it's never boring.
~Rosemary G
"Thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed the class last week. It is so good for me to be thinking hard about all those inner muscles; your explanations were excellent."
~ Kate S
Thank you again for your wonderful classes. I find them calming and refreshing.
~ Jilly H
"Am looking forward to starting again. I have gained so much I don’t want to give up now. I love the class. Everyone is so friendly and it is helping me no end."
~ Pam W
"Friends say how well I look for my age and I tell them what I do and say ‘You too could look so well if you attend these classes’. It's all about being positive about life. And may I say, you’re a great example. Well done Andrea."
~ Douglas P
"Your style of guidance is very adaptable to every level of participant. I’ve certainly benefited from your patience and encouragement and have noticed a distinct improvement in recovery time from gardening aches and pains! And my posture has improved!"
~Clare H
"It’s one of the most enjoyable, relaxing and energising times of my week that’s almost meditative at the same time as being physically challenging."
~ Ann D-P
Contact me
by phone or by clicking on the email address below
Phone
07974 997181 or 01747 838566