November has seen the beginning of the first stage of preparing for my first marathon - the 2015 Virgin London Marathon. Although I am very excited at having been lucky to secure a place, I certainly realize that I’ll have to seriously step up my training for the challenge! But at the same time I have been reflecting on my classes at PATS Pilates where my fitness levels have been raised well beyond my expectations…. It now seems inconceivable that I began Pilates in 2011 aged 68 with no aspirations other than to strengthen my left ankle that had been weak and unreliable since a motorbike accident in my youth. 

Within a couple of months my ankle felt stronger and I was pleased how in those early classes my posture was getting so much better too, particularly as I have always aimed to sit correctly teaching and playing my guitar. Also I became so much more aware of my balance and coordination enjoying at the same time increased flexibility. My friends and family were also amazed when my new found confidence led me to take a keen interest in completing 10k and half marathon events the first being the NSPCC Half Marathon in 2012. Thanks to Pat and her brilliant team, Pilates is not only an integral part of my weekly running schedule with daily exercises from my Monday Pilates class, it has become a vital part of my life and wellbeing. I look forward to enjoying for many years to come the friendly, varied and inspirational classes at PATS and getting a few more half and full marathons under my belt!