This is what makes our work so rewarding...
"Today’s first Tower Apparatus class was great! All the exercises were explained really well in an easy-to-understand way. It was a fantastic addition to a varied class timetable. The Tower class included many of the principles of Pilates in a new and exciting way. The springs on the towers added extra challenge to some exercises whilst adding assistance to other exercises."
Carla Colvin, one of 8 participants at our first ever Tower Apparatus class July 2022 "When I joined the beginners course in February it was with the intention of regaining some strength following abdominal surgery, and pain I was experiencing due to arthritis. Little did I know that Pilates would become such an important part of my life, sustaining me both physically and mentally through the challenges of 2020. I love my weekly class at the Studio and get so much out of the videos which I do several times a week. I feel stronger and have noticed real improvements with the arthritis pain." Julie Payne, Upminster Resident "If in any doubt about Pilates - try it! Neil is an excellent teacher and you will go home feeling as if you have achieved something!" Jo Wilkinson-Collings, Upminster Resident "I really enjoyed the Tower class today. I was wary of trying it because I was worried I wouldn't be able to do it, but I think I really benefitted from it." Elise Collier, Upminster Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "I attended my first class back at the studio this evening following the lockdown. I was very apprehensive about returning. I just wanted to thank you both for your hard work to ensure everything has been done to reduce the risk of spreading Covid19. I enjoyed the class and felt very safe." Denise Gibbs, Upminster Resident. May 2021 "Charlene, thanks so much for always fitting me in last minute! Your massage always sorts me out!" Frankie Bridge, former Upminster Resident and from 'The Saturdays' pop band & 'Strictly Come Dancing 2014' & 'I'm a Celebrity get me out of here 2021' & 'Loose Women 2024' "I don’t think I’ve ever been to a group class which was so well taught in terms of making sure I was in the correct positions and using the correct technique" Sarah McDonald, Hornchurch Resident "I was in a lot of pain with my neck and my back before I started the Pilates classes, but now I feel stronger in my core and the pain has greatly receded. Can't thank you enough!" David Jenkin, Upminster Resident "I absolutely loved the Tower Class - and love Neil’s classes in general. I find the flow of the Tower Class really great and love that you can feel more control when you’re doing the moves. Being pregnant, I find it easier to use the adapted moves with the Tower Apparatus and would recommend to everyone to attend." Amy Courtney, Aveley Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "I like suspension work in general but really enjoyed today's TRX trial class, with an added focus on pilates, strength and a bit of cardio at the end!" Joyce Tan, Hornchurch Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "I started Pilates with Neil after having to give up running following severe back pain triggered by pregnancy. Neil was excellent at directing me during the class on technique and adapting the positions to suit my injury. The classes are varied so you can continue to develop at your own pace. Having started out as a beginner struggling with back pain, I am now running again, and free from everyday pain. My core strength has improved and I have more movement and confidence to return to the gym." Coleen Sheperd, Upminster Resident "Moving the springs around in the Tower Apparatus class took a little getting used to, but once I got the hang of it, I found it was a really good way to add challenge to moves I have learned in the beginner classes, and to improve control. I could also tell I was working a little harder too!" Sophie Hope, Rainham Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "Had my first session of beginner Pilates ... loved it and amazingly I feel that I’ve been stretched out. I love that the class is small and personal and Sophie is a great teacher". Revd Marion Williams, All Saints Church Cranham "Charlene, you and Neil have done a brilliant job of keeping things going during the lockdown. I honestly believe that Pilates and also what I’d learnt in the breathing workshop made all the difference in my recovery from Covid. On the day there were no ambulances available I just about summoned the energy to do the breathing exercises, for short periods over and over again. I was so unwell I needed help and it hurt but over the worst days I consistently got my SATS up from 87/88 to 94/95! There was daily contact from Doctors and a Physio but they couldn’t do breathing exercises for me. In the end I didn’t go into hospital for oxygen or IV - how amazing was that? Pilates has had such a positive impact on my life." Michelle A, Upminster Resident "Sophie’s Mindfulness through Pilates workshop was 90 minutes well spent. She was enlightening with her knowledge of anxiety and how the breath can help us overcome those overwhelming moments we have all experienced. We had comfy mats, blankets and an eye masks to enhance our relaxation. I felt so refreshed and calm after the class. Ready to take whatever 2020 sends my way.“ Jude Hazael, Mindfulness Workshop attendee January 2020 "After years of searching for a local massage therapist I finally found Charlene. She is AMAZBALLS!!! You need to have her in your life - don't think twice - life changing! Thanks for always fitting me in xxxx" Lisa Aly-Khan, Owner of 'Halo Hair Salon' in Upminster "I'm so glad we found your Pilates classes. I can now walk round an art gallery without awful back pain (did 3 hours in the national gallery last week with zero pain at all!). Post natally my pelvic floor is much repaired! I really do think Pilates is like rehab for sitting behind a desk all day at work" Sophie Damoglou, Upminster Resident "There are probably a lot of people out there who are nervous of trying Pilates and your classes are honestly the best and your studio is lovely, but your photos look so professional and everyone's doing the same thing and I wondered whether it might make a complete beginner or someone like me with physical issues a bit nervous as it looks like everyone is so perfect, so I wanted to write this to show people how accessible and comfortable your classes are for everyone whatever the ability. When I first started I was really nervous and worried at how little I might be able to do and I was just about able to do a Single Knee Fold but I was never made to feel that I wasn’t good enough and never felt awkward or embarrassed because I could do so little compared to others. In fact, I very quickly stopped worrying about what the rest of the class were doing and this is all down to the encouragement and support you gave us each week and I wanted to convey that to others. I am so glad I persuaded myself to come to your classes it's one of the best decisions I've ever made! In your classes I never feel I’m being a nuisance or holding up the class when I ask a question, or when you notice I need some guidance to move correctly, and best of all you always have different levels of each movement or alternative exercises to suit different abilities, so I feel I’m achieving and working at the right pace for me – I just wish I’d found you years ago!" Lois Chalk, Upminster Resident "I’ve been seeing Neil for five months and he’s really made huge difference to neck and back pain I’ve suffered whilst cycling. What’s impressed me most is his thoughtful approach and wanting to tackle the root cause of the problem rather than just the symptoms. His patient explanations of what he is doing have really helped me understand more about the mechanics of my body and perhaps more importantly what I can be doing to help myself. I’ve managed to complete a 100-mile cycling challenge, which at the start of seeing Neil felt like an unrealistic proposition. I’d happily recommend Upminster Sports Massage to anyone wanting professional support with injuries or wanting to get proactive with looking after their bodies." Damian Piper, Performance coach and leadership facilitator www.effectivechallenge.com "I really enjoyed the Tower Apparatus class. I was exercising through an increased range of movement on the new equipment and some of the exercises also worked the core more." Heather Douglas, Upminster Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "I was so excited to find an exercise class that I could take my baby to (Post Natal Pilates with Charlene). No pressure if the baby cried or needed attention and a chance to focus on myself for a whole hour! This course exceeded all expectations!" Clare Baker, Upminster Resident "I thoroughly enjoy my Pilates Classes. Being a total beginner I felt very comfortable and always look forward to my Monday morning Pilates session. Neil is a great teacher." Nikki Walker, Bulphan Resident "Charlene, you're a miracle worker! I came out from my massage appointment and got into my car - a simple enough phrase, but it hasn't been a simple action for me for a few months! Left leg into the car, no hassle. Thank you." Courtney M, Upminster Resident "I recommend Charlene highly. I have been impressed with her knowledge and professionalism. Charlene balances fun with strict technique and correction which is reassuring for beginners as you can be sure you are doing it right. She clearly loves Pilates and her enthusiasm and dedication means she is an outstanding instructor. I attended the Post Natal Pilates course and Charlene's in depth knowledge about the body and the impact of pregnancy on it, makes me sure this course is essential for new mums to give your body the best possible chance of a good recovery. The class is thorough but also relaxed as Charlene is so understanding when you are exhausted or if your baby is having a fussy moment. I signed up for it not realising how important and beneficial it was going to be for me. I now attend the mainstream classes where Charlene continues to tailor exercises specifically for my stage in post natal recovery, along with bespoke adjustments for others in the same class depending on their needs at the time. I recently had some lower back pain after lifting my baby in an increasingly heavy infant car seat, it was hurting so much it kept me awake some nights. I explained this to Charlene before we started the class and she made sure the exercises were appropriate. The next day the pain had completely gone and I haven't had it since. I also had a sharp knee pain for a few weeks after the birth of my daughter and now I believe my post natal Pilates class resolved that issue for me." Johanna Humphrey, Upminster Resident "Charlene & Neil are very welcoming and friendly and very professional in their work and Pilates instruction" John Morley, Upminster Resident "Fun exercise, delicious food, relaxation time, and all in a day! I thoroughly enjoyed some 'me time', many thanks." Jenny Enever, Pilates Day Retreat attendee Nov 2017 |
"My back hasn't felt this good in years, I think you have done wonders with it in Pilates Charlene - thank you. I've tried other Pilates classes but with nowhere near the same success. It has made such a difference just doing normal everyday things that were causing pain before. Until you have a back problem you just don't know how restrictive and painful it can be"
Tracy Holland, Upminster Resident "As a complete novice Sophie (Millett) really put me at my ease and helped me gain confidence. She was fab!" Victoria Hallett, Upminster Resident "Charlene, I just thought I’d let you know that last nights Pilates session worked a treat on my back & neck, I’m sitting at my desk with no aches....can’t remember the last time my neck felt so good." Jodie Osborne, Upminster Resident "I am really enjoying the Pilates and the teacher is really lovely. We do something different every week and I certainly feel so much better regarding my issues with pain." Pauline Foster (Senior Pilates Class), Upminster Resident "I had a little try of the Tower Apparatus with Neil one day and enjoyed it so much I swapped permanently to Alison’s Tower class. In the first session Alison had already been made aware of my ankle and checked in with me before I started (and during the session) whether I needed anything to be lighter or modified etc. At first the Tower with all the bars, hooks and springs looked a bit complicated but after a couple of exercises it was really easy to understand what went where and what to use each time. As you know I do struggle with doing some of the standing exercises so I was a bit concerned about that, but it's not a problem with the Tower - I think it's because there's a connection and a resistance. The exercises are varied which suits me. I found I could do things using the Tower that I find quite hard in the mat class and I could feel I had more control and also I could isolate and use the correct muscles. After a Tower session I feel great, like I do after a reformer session and I’m feeling very optimistic and enthusiastic about how I can progress on it!" Lois Chalk, Upminster Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes August 2022 “I have enjoyed Pilates at 'Upminster Sports Massage & Pilates' for a number of years now. All the teachers are excellent and the groups are small so you get personal teaching, including corrections when necessary - unlike big gyms. Recently, some new classes have been introduced - TRX and Tower Apparatus classes. As a gym goer I really enjoyed the challenge of the TRX class, and when the Tower classes were introduced I was very happy as I have been interested in Reformer classes, and the Tower classes are very similar to Reformer. This is a lovely clean cool studio, close to home and run by people who genuinely care about their clients.” Elizabeth Lyon, Upminster Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes AND one of our new TRX classes July 2022 "I found the small group beginners classes with Neil absolutely essential and would recommend them to anyone thinking of taking up Pilates for the first time. I was very impressed that in one session a lady turned up with a particular condition, and Neil tailor made the exercises specifically to her needs while continuing to direct the usual exercises to the other members of the class." Denise Hosking, Upminster Resident "Neil gave an excellent introduction to Pilates, with clear instructions and individual guidance" Heather Jones, Upminster Resident "Suffering from a back injury and being a complete novice to Pilates, the beginners course seemed perfect for me and I have not been disappointed. My instructor (Beth) put me completely at ease and carefully explained and demonstrated every move. Three weeks into the course and I am already feeling the benefits, so much so that I have already signed up to continue with weekly classes at the end of my course." Sue Ware, Upminster Resident "The Tower Apparatus session was relaxed and confidence building with Neil being an extremely knowledgeable teacher for the instruments of torture! He managed to get 8 novices putting the springs in the right place with quick, smooth transitions." Debbie Walmsley, Upminster Resident and one of 8 participants at one of our new Tower Apparatus classes July 2022 "I have been doing weekly Pilates sessions with Charlene since June 2015 and I always look forward to them. I am a runner, dedicated to being the best I can on each race. Doing Pilates is ideal for me as it helps me with my posture and my breathing which translate into a better running form, better endurance and a better performance with less effort. Not only is Charlene extremely knowledgeable, she is meticulous in her approach. Her sessions are relaxed and she is very patient! I know I am in safe hands." Valerie Nicholls, French Teacher at Fairkytes Hornchurch www.amstramgram.co.uk "Excellent care and individual attention in a small class made me feel that I was in very safe hands, despite being in recovery from injuries" Jeanette Kaye, Upminster Resident "I just wanted to say how amazing Beth's zoom classes have been during lockdown. She has done such a great job in these tough times, always puts a smile on my face and genuinely cares about our group" Lisa Stubbles, Upminster Resident "I have been a client of both Neil and Charlene for over 3 years now and have gone to them for all sorts of problems ranging from having just a full body sports massage to get out any aches from work or football related strains, to some more serious work on injuries picked up whilst training and completing the London Marathon. Both very friendly, polite and down to earth professionals that have clear helpful advice and are always able to fit you in when you need it. Not to mention great value for money. I'm that impressed with them and their work that I have sent lots of friends, family and members of my football team to see them." Glenn Wright, 'Upminster Football Club' "Tucked behind the shops in St Mary's Lane and Argyle Gardens, this is a great space for Pilates. Having just started Pilates, I find Neil and Charlene provide great support and guidance with bags of patience for newbies like me. From beginners' taster sessions to intermediate, mixed-ability and advanced, there's classes for all levels as well as 1-1s. Good class plans and opportunities to class swap so you don't miss out!" Les Brand, Upminster Resident "An excellent Pilates Day Retreat! You had thought of everything from Pilates Classes to a fun Dance Class, Talks from House of Colour & a talk on Nutrition, and even a goodey bag to go home with, what's not to like!" Jude Hazael, Pilates Day Retreat Attendee May 2017 "I have been going to see Charlene for over a year now and she has helped me enormously. Being a semi pro footballer, I have found that the sessions with Charlene have aided my recovery between a packed fixture list and helped me stay injury free. Charlene has always gone above and beyond to help me and always does her best to fit me in even last minute. I often refer friends and family to her and get great feedback from them too. I would recommend her to anyone, not just sports persons but also those who just need to take away the aches and pains the general day to day stuff brings." Kurt Smith, Semi Pro Footballer 'Billericay FC' "I am so glad I attended Sophie's Mindfulness Workshop, I left feeling so relaxed, calm and able to face the world. The techniques shown to us are simple to incorporate into life, especially at times of stress. The knowledge that these breathing exercises can also aid overall health will encourage me to use them on a regular basis. I have also found them helpful at night when unable to sleep. Can't recommend the workshop highly enough." Penny Edwards, Mindfulness Workshop attendee January 2020 "A perfect day of Pilates and relaxation, delicious food and drinks/smoothies. Nice to spend the day with the friendly ladies and our fab instructors!!" Yvonne Cook, Pilates Day Retreat attendee Nov 2017 "As a 66 year old male, reasonably fit but with a heart condition I've really enjoyed Neil's Beginner Pilates course and feel confident about moving onto the Improver level classes" Bill Broyd, Upminster Resident "I have been attending classes at Upminster Sports Massage and Pilates since beginner level with no prior knowledge of Pilates and have seen such an improvement in my overall health and fitness since starting. I would highly recommend. The classes are dynamic, varied and fun with attention to detail. Exercises are carefully tailored to suit all abilities. Teachers keep up-to-date with their health, fitness and Pilates knowledge and are always helpful, approachable, motivating and enthusiastic. The only exercise class I really look forward to every week. 10 out of 10!" Carla Colvin, Upminster Resident "I have been seeing Charlene for quite a while now. She has kept my hip from seizing up whilst maintaining the rest of my body. I am a dancer and in the autumn of my life so keeping going is essential. Her husband Neil has joined Charlene which makes for a fantastic team. When I heard that Neil had been trained in Biomechanics and Postural Rebalancing, I wanted to know more so I booked in. During the session, Neil identified the problem areas of my body. He then proceeded to give me exercises to do at home and an amazing massage. Because he had worked out what was wrong and given me diagrams and exercises which I can do every day, I have even more mobility in my hip and in the rest of my body. Thank you Charlene and Neil for keeping me on my toes for hopefully many years to come." Sue Webb, Dance Teacher at 'Danceaway' and 'Starlets' Toddler Dance Group in Upminster "Recovering from injury and going through very stressful and emotional times, Pilates class helped me to heal and relax" Tereza Lattova, Brentwood Resident "Charlene - the best massage therapist in town - thanks for all your hard work, I feel better already." Blaze, 'American Gladiators' "Charlene & Neil, just to say thank you to you both. I really enjoyed today. It can't have been easy creating such a relaxed feel to a day that needed so much organisation. We went for a lovely walk along the sea front and everyone was so happy and chilled. We just kept banging on about what a fabulous day it was. I am looking forward to the next one." Cathy Farrell, Pilates Day Retreat Attendee May 2017 "Charlene is a lovely friendly lady who made our day enjoyable. The Beginners Pilates class was a gentle introduction that I really enjoyed" Christine Heritage, Pilates Day Retreat attendee May 2017 "I'm not a huge fan of exercise but I love these Pilates classes and I'm actually noticing an improvement." Michelle Ashby, Upminster Resident "It was a great experience - exactly what I needed to relax and reconnect with my body. I am a Pilates fan now and will definitely continue learning" Sarah Bradbury, Pilates Weekend Retreat attendee March 2018 |