'When I met Jo I was frustrated because I had always been active and I just couldn't do it anymore. Now, my knees are properly aligned.

We got rid of my orthotics after about six months and Jo is straightening me up. I have never stood better'

Kim Algar, 2005

To read more about Kim's story go to our articles section to 'CHEK mate'

After consulting with Jo and taking her advice on changes to my diet I have found that the digestive problems I had have been alleviated.

I have more energy and have also lost a stone in weight. My health and frame of mind have both benefited as a consequence.

I have undertaken various exercises suggested by Jo and although I have not been consistent with these to date I have felt the benefit especially with regards to my back which has been a longstanding area of weakness and had resulted in surgery in the past. The stiffness and pain has been improved to the extent that they are a rarity rather than the norm.

 Mary Crampton, Nanny, 2005

For several years I suffered with intermittent back pain and sciatica. I finally I lost the feeling in one leg, which would give way, causing me to fall. I was diagnosed with 2 prolapsed discs.

Not wishing spend my life on pain killers and anti inflammatory drugs, I turned to Pilates to learn how to strengthen and support my body correctly, enabling me to avoid future episodes and to ease the permanent tightness in my back.

Under the tuition of Alys Helm, my back has improved immeasurably. In fact, last year, I was able to return to competitive Latin American dancing after a break of 27 years! Competing in the over 35 age group, the icing on the cake was to recently beat the current British Champions!

 I have no doubt that this achievement would not have been possible without Alys's help over the last 3 years. Latin American dance requires extreme flexibility in the spine, particularly the lower back, and it is through her excellent instruction that I have been able to achieve my goals.

Alys, thank you.

Kim Parsons

Having attended various keep-fit classes for over 30 years,  I can say that  nearly 10 years of Alys' classes have been extremely beneficial to me taking into account certain degenerative physical conditions I have.  Alys is a very well informed teacher, and one of her greatest assets is the knowledge she has acquired to specifically help people with medical problems, which I know many of us have found helpful.                                   

Christine Haggart

I've tried a few Pilates classes over the years but Alys' class is by far the best for me. Not only is it a really jolly and friendly class but I almost feel taller after a class. My friends have commented on my improved posture and I never have any back problems.   I would also highly recommend the Swiss Ball classes. I'm looking forward to my garden in the Spring just knowing that I can ease away any aches and pains from a day bending and weeding by using the Swiss Ball.

Eileen Smith