Point & Flex Pilates Studio

Swinging Pilates

Mariska — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 06:15:21 +0000

I'm proud to introduce the Aqua-swing. During my recent trip to Europe I participated in a "Flow-motion" course, which uses the Aqua-swing. The Aqua swing has been developed by a Dutch physiotherapist and is basically a bag filled with water that you swing around. If only it was that easy! The swings are used in the studio-classes and I am looking into organising group-sessions (small problem: it does require some space to swing these bags around!). I will keep you posted!

Studio open again

Mariska — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 06:42:31 +0000

The studio is open for business again. We've had a great time overseas and have come back with lots of new skills and ideas. We will be open over the Christmas period, except 25+26 dec and 1 + 2 Jan. Hope to see you soon.

Studio closed 28/9 - 30/11

Mariska — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:34:31 +0000

The studio will be closed from 28 September and will re-open on December 1st 2007.

I will be off to Holland to visit a Fitness Exposition and to do a couple of courses and seminars.

Wouldn't you be pleased if I came back with more ideas to use Rollers and Bosu balls? (Yep, all part of my planned courses!)

Sidelying arm circles

Mariska — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:15:31 +0000

Lie on your side, knees bend, arms extended in front of you at shoulder-height, palms touching. Head on a pillow if you want. Start to pull your top arm back (keeping the arm straight, not bending at the elbow), then push the arm out. From this pushed out position start circling the arm over your head, side, hip, back to your starting position. Do the same pulling back and out, then circle the arm over the hip, side and head, back to starting position. This is one set. Do 4 sets and then lie on your back. Do your shoulders feel the same? Change to the other side. With this exercise you do not have to worry about right breathing and/or abdominal control; the only thing you have to think of is to not lift your head of the pillow/mat. Turn it, but no lifting. Enjoy!

Doorframe Stretch

Mariska — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 05:58:07 +0000

To get a good whole side stretch, try the “doorframe” stretch.

Position yourself in the -open- door, placing your outside foot over your inside foot (which is the foot closes to the doorframe). The inside leg is slightly bent.

With inside hand grip doorframe at waistlevel and your outside arm grips the frame overhead. Now straighten the legs and push away from the frame. (you’re hanging from the frame).

This stretch should be felt from your hip to upper arm. By slightly moving forward or backwards with your body you might be able to change the stretch more towards the front/back of your body.

Hold it for 30 seconds and repeat 2 times on each side.