Katie Francesca
Katie Francesca trained as a professional dancer, graduating with a BA Hon’s degree in 2005.
Early in Katie’s dance career she experienced the benefits of Pilates, attending regular studio and mat work classes which kept her lean, strong and prepared for the athletic and intensive demands of a dancer’s life.
She learned the important role that Pilates could play in injury prevention and rehabilitation. and recognised the power of intelligent movement.
During this time however, it was also her experience that there weren’t enough fun, dynamic challenging workouts which strengthened the core in safe sensible ways. It was at this time that Katie’s Pilates was born!
Her passion for Pilates led her to set up Katie’s Pilates.
“Pilates is a discipline. You really do see & feel the benefits if you stick to it. It’s a way of life for me. Infact, MEDITATION IN MOVEMENT, this is what Pilates means to me. Visualising & concentrating on one single thing when doing Pilates, simply you & your body, allows you to block everything else out. Instead of running from place to place or thinking about how much more we can fit into our day, Pilates allows us to exist in the moment. You feel relaxed, carefree, light, happy, connected, centred and present in the moment. It’s a bonus that you will tone & strengthen the core / body at the same time!
Pilates allows us to pay attention to where we are in our body, but also to our breath. We visualise, concentrate & really feel what is happening within the body. From the core. It is a core workout after all. Taking time to simply notice our breath while we exercise, through the length of our inhales and exhales, and becoming attuned to the way in which we breathe is taking a step towards mindfulness. By practicing breathing mindfully we gain a sense of calm and tranquility — the problems and troubles of the day slowly fade away because we are in the ‘now’. But also, Pilates allows you to become more familiar with the body you are in, there is a sense of freedom with that, this is meditating without even trying! And that is my goal, to bring the beauty of the mind – body connection, Pilates brings you. MEDITATION IN MOVEMENT.
I love the fact anyone can do Pilates – and I’ve made a point of welcoming all – so my classes are full of all ages, male and female and capabilities – this makes it an open diverse environment. Watch out though! pilates is addictive!!“