Until recently I had never been inside a Pilates studio, I certainly didn’t know the difference between Pilates and Gyrotonics, and I would never have thought (even after my mom’s raves) that I would like it!

But oh contrare! With three lessons under my belt, consider me the newest Pilates fanatic. I have soreness in muscles I didn’t even know existed, and I’m loving it. I feel totally energized.

Pilates is especially great for mums and mums-to-be, as it is proven to strengthen your core (including pelvic floor muscles), increase flexibility, relieve back pain, improve your posture, and tone your body. What more could you ask for? It’s also an enjoyable work-out.

Kinesis is a Pilates and Gyrotonic studio located in Notting Hill. The studio is fitted out with the best of all the Pilates and Gyrotonic equipment, and is light and bright and aesthetically soothing. The very lovely owner and teacher, Melissa, is one of the most refreshing people I’ve ever met, and you feel that vibe the minute you enter.

If you’re anything like me, the thought of starting Pilates might seem like a daunting step, but Kinesis makes it so, so easy. You don’t need a membership and you don’t have to commit to any number of lessons; you can simply schedule your lessons and pay as you go, choosing between private, duet or group lessons. It’s as easy as that!

Kinesis offers pre-natal and post-natal classes, which will target specific areas and incorporate the interests of each woman. Their pre-natal courses will strengthen and tone the whole body, allowing for a more comfortable pregnancy and delivery, while the post-natal courses will help women shed pounds, tone the body and build strength for feeding and carrying the baby.

They also offers classes for kids in two different age groups: 6-9 and 9-12. The classes are designed to improve co-ordination, balance, posture, and concentration all with fun exercises in the guise of games. They are currently setting up a kids’ summer course, so if you’re looking for fun activities for your kids while they are out of school this summer, here’s a good one.

-Courtney