THRIVE FOR SUMMER

Optional Equipment: 1-2kg weights

Mind-body connection is one of the key aspects that makes Pilates different from other forms of exercise and so our focus is really on being in your body and as present as possible. We are starting with this, so you can take this notion through with you during this challenge. Life is busy but the next 27 minutes is just for you - so make the most it direct your mind to the muscles that are working, the form, and the breathing pattern. x

Optional Equipment: Mini Ball + Band

These two pieces of equipment combined are amazing for really understanding what deep core engagement actually means and feels like. The ball de-stabilises the body, while the band adds in a resistance that means your core has to switch on even more. You will still get a great workout without either so don't worry. Haver fun and enjoy this session. x

Optional Equipment: Mini Ball + 5kg Weights

This workout uses slow and controlled strength in series of 3 rounds. I am using 5kg weights and the ball in this workout which will help you build muscle and deepen the connection you feel to these exercises, however you don't need to use them if you don't have access. If you are new to Pilates, you may want to skip the weights and get familiar with the body positioning first. You can always revisit the session with weights at a later date x

This body weight workout is exactly what you need if you are short of energy or need to feel a bit more alive and awake. Its low impact, dynamic, and allows us to flow freely with little adjustments on form, without holding on to tension. It's the release of the body that we want here, so fully embrace it keep breathing x

Optional equipment: 1 x 5kg weight (3-7kg) + long band

Boosting our energy doesn't always mean working faster with more dynamic movement - sometimes it means controlled, precise movement to bring us back into our bodies. This workout incorporates strength + resistance with the intention of leaving you feeling empowered, stronger, more balanced and with stable energy. Enjoy x

No equipment necessary here - this workout is about moving your body freely in a way that feels really good! We are doing 3 round of this circuit - 30 minutes in total. You can join in for all 3 round for maximum impact but if you only have 20 minutes today, take the two rounds - absolutely fine! x

This workout is about giving some love to the parts of our bodies that are often neglected and yet carry us through life - our hips, hamstrings, and glutes. There are lots of variations and progressions so this is really about working within your current remit of movement and also challenging it if that feels good. Lets give our lower bodies the love they deserve x

Powerhouse core workout. This workout is a reminder that progress only comes through making things occasionally harder so i want you to take the pressure off yourself being able to do everything at the hardest level in this workout. You are on your mat and that is what counts. We practice together to get that 1% better each time. No pressure, no perfection. Have fun and enjoy x

This workout combines strength and mobility because we need both in equal measure to truly feel confident in our own skin. I am using the 5kg weights in this workout, but you can just use bodyweight or choose a lighter weight if that feels better for you. x

This workout uses the mini ball to help you focus on the tiny adjustments in the body that will make a big difference to how much we get out of the session. It will de-stabilise you, allow you to focus on control and precision, and at times, will give you extra support. Take your time and stay as present as possible x

Optional Equipment: Weights (3-5kg), ankle weights, block.

Well this is a serious strength challenge (slightly annoyed I had just washed my hair). This workout is going to give you such an amazing buzz of strength and power in that lovely Pilates, controlled way. I would say this will challenge you, but thats exactly what we want when it comes to building strength and resilience. It doesn't always look pretty, it can be messy and wobbly and thats how we like it. x

NOTE: My Mic dies 2 mins before the end and I already had to film this one twice - i couldn't bring myself to try again!

This workout uses light weights to challenge our range and mobility of movement. We are not really in muscle growth territory, but that's not to say this workout is easy! the light weights do exactly what we want them to - challenge the small connecting muscles that are vital in supporting the big ones. x

Optional equipment: Ankle weights

I can't figure out if its because I'd not long completed a hard workout of my own or if this was just har, so you'll have to let me know after you've done this one. We are loading the abs - working deep and superficial muscles and moving through this workout fairly quickly - not rushing but with pace. Ankle weights make a huge difference to this one - challenge yourself if you have them! x

Optional equipment: Long Band

Ok today we are working on range of movement with resistance - this isn't about adding in the most amount of resistance and losing the range, but at the same time, i want you to challenge how much resistance your reach can handle. Take your time with the transitions and get the band set upright before starting otherwise you might end up pinging it in your face! Enjoy x

Optional Equipment: light 1kg weights, heavier weights (2-5kg), block

3 rounds of this balance and strength routine. Round one is where we set the foundation, round two is where we test our balance and round 3 is where we test our strength and balance. We want to challenge ourselves as much as possible without sacrificing form. I drop down in weight part way through set 3 because i can feel my form slip so pay attention to how you are feeling. x

Optional Equipment: Magic Circle OR Mini Ball.

The Magic circle is amazing for adding in resistance but also giving us support and alignment and we play around with both of these elements in this session together. If you are new to the Magic Circle, be patient - sometimes it can take a while to connect to the positioning and how it feels but you'll get there! x

Optional Equipment: Heavy Weight

We mix body weight strength with weighted strength which is a great combo for functional strength. We move with pace and we are up and down from the floor with a few variations of plank (our favourite). 1. Choose a weight that feels heavy and that you can still maintain good form. 2. If you need to come down to your knees or forearms in the plank work - absolutely no problem! Holding a plank is a lot on the whole body - you've got this! x

Welcome back! This workout combines the strength power of the resistance band with the increase in range required with the block - a great combo for building muscle through the lower body and improving our understanding of core stability. You want this band to feel heavy so try medium or heavy for maximum results. x