Hello and happy Thursday!

As I’m off on my summer hols in less than a month, I’m on an extra fitness kick at the moment. Putting in the work now means that the relaxation on the beach will be even more worth it… And the buffet dinners! 

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As I have been doing mat-based Pilates for the past 13 years and my teacher is taking some time off this summer, I wanted to try something different. I was looking for a class that would be really challenging and a type of exercise that would still maintain many of the principles of Pilates, which focuses on core strength, elongating muscles and encouraging good posture. 

With all that in mind, I came across Pilates Plus Dublin and it’s safe to say that I’m a little bit addicted now!

Based in an airy, bright studio just beside Baker’s Corner in Deansgrange, Proformer machines are used to give you a full body workout. In fact, it’s the only place where clients can experience SPX™. Developed by celebrity Pilates instructor Sebastien Lagree, this is one of the very best types of workout for quickly achieving a sleek, defined physique.

This fitness system is the most innovative and aggressive approach to full body conditioning and just one week in, I’m already noticing changes to my body and strength. In the past week, I’ve done 4 classes and I can tell you that they’re not easy but I’m feeling the benefits already! I feel more toned and increasingly more flexible. 

11140273_760589047371692_5913263610684461490_nAlong with the resistance exercises done on the Proformer, we do the more familiar lunges, squats and push-ups. This combo of strengthening and lengthening exercises is designed to develop long, lean muscles and change the muscle to fat ratio in your body. On top of all of that, postural alignment is a key element in the classes. 

imageTuesday’s class focused on legs and core, while yesterday’s one was all about upper body, core, obliques and glutes. So no two classes are the same and they constantly challenge different muscles and muscle groups. 

Every part of my body burns at the time… but I love the challenge!

Emma at the PPD Studio

Emma at the PPD Studio

Emma leads a team of experienced instructors who teach the hour-long classes all throughout the day, and they’re so knowledgeable about Pilates that I’m never afraid to ask questions.

My backside may still ache from yesterday’s class, but I’m already looking forward to the next one!

Check out the PPD website for info on prices and class times.