Louise Darby is a certified Pilates Teacher and Mental Health Pilates practitioner. She trained with the renowned Body Control Pilates®, a member of the BCP Association and a founding member of the Body Control Pilates Academy.
With over 20 years’ experience of teaching Pilates, Louise is passionate about the role of movement for the mind and body supporting our mental as well as physical health. Her classes offer a range of challenges and motivation suitable for all levels, ages and abilities.
Louise loves the way Pilates can help someone regain strength and vitality after injury, how it can sculpt the body, but most importantly bring a sense of connection and awareness to the way we move and feel; “it’s like stepping back inside yourself”.
Louise came to Pilates through managing her own pain and health issues and continues to find much relief and improvement from this strengthening and mindful form of exercise. She brings this knowledge to her classes to adapt exercises for everyone, regardless of age or ability. From the more advanced classical exercises created by Joseph Pilates, to smaller functional daily exercises to keep us moving, everything has its own merit.
She loves to challenge her clients, but equally believes in the quietness and relaxation aspect of the technique. The essence of the mind/body connection that defines Pilates.
Her classes are kept small to ensure individual attention. Incorporating not just Pilates exercises, but Breathing, Stretching, Fascia release and Relaxation techniques. She uses small equipment such as bands, balls, and ‘Magic’ circles to aid movement and bring variety and fun to her classes.
As well as Pilates, Louise is passionate about Wildlife and Nature and away from teaching she loves Walking, Gardening, and spending time with her family and dogs. Balance.
Louise is committed to further training and professional development. Courses include
Pilates and Better Mental Health
Hypermobility and related Conditions
Pilates for Bone Health
Understanding Pain
Myofascial Release
Understanding Menopause and the benefits of Pilates
Pilates and Massage
Breathing Awareness
Body Control Mat Work
Body Control Pilates Intermediate Mat
Extensive Courses for Small props and equipment for class (Bands, balls, rollers, circles)
Further areas of interest include: Alexander Technique , Trigger point release & meditation.