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Long days at a desk can leave the back, hips and neck feeling tight. My low-impact Pilates class in Upton Village Hall on Mondays, 9.30–10.15am is designed to restore movement, build support and reduce those niggles. Why Pilates supports back care Core stability, not bracing: We build deep core control that supports the spine without gripping. Hip and thoracic mobility: Freeing the areas above and below the lower back often reduces strain. Posture awareness: You’ll learn simple cues you can use at your desk to feel better through the day. Low impact: Ideal if high-impact classes flare symptoms. What we focus on Breath-led core work: Diaphragm, pelvic floor and deep abdominals working together. Glute strength: Bridges, clams and supported single-leg work to offload the lower back. Spinal mobility: Segmental movement to reduce stiffness and improve control. Shoulder and upper-back control: To ease neck tension and support posture. Will it suit me if I’m sore? Most people with general stiffness or desk-related discomfort find Pilates helpful. If you’re managing a specific condition, send me a message first so I can suggest sensible modifications or advise whether you should check in with a clinician before you start. Results to look for Standing and sitting feel more natural Easier to lift, carry and walk Fewer flare-ups after long desk sessions Better focus thanks to improved breathing and movement Join me on Monday at 9.30–10.15am for Pilates in Upton Village Hall. Click here to book your space.

If you’ve been curious about Pilates but unsure where to start, you’re in the right place. I teach a beginner-friendly Pilates class every Monday at Upton Village Hall, 9.30–10.15am. You’ll get simple instruction, sensible progressions and a calm space to focus. Before you arrive Wear comfy, stretchy clothes and bring a mat. Let me know about any injuries or concerns so I can plan suitable options. You don’t need to be flexible to begin; Pilates helps you build mobility and control over time. The class format Settling & breath (3–5 mins): Find neutral alignment, connect to your breath and set light core support. Mobility prep (5–8 mins): Gentle movements for spine, hips and shoulders. Core & control (20 mins): Foundational exercises like dead bugs, bridges, four-point work and side-lying sequences, with clear regressions/progressions. Integrate & balance (8–10 mins): Standing sequences to link strength and posture. Cool down (3–4 mins): Easy mobility and breath to finish. What makes it beginner-friendly I demonstrate first, then coach your setup and alignment. You’ll hear practical cues—where to place your ribs, how to breathe, what you should feel. I offer gentle Pilates options as well as challenges for those ready to progress, so you can work at a level that’s right for you. Benefits you can expect Better posture and body awareness Stronger core without high-impact work Easier everyday movement—bending, lifting, walking Less stiffness around the back, hips and neck Your first session Arrive a few minutes early so we can chat through any questions. I’ll make sure you feel comfortable and know what to expect. Ready to start? Book your place for Monday 9.30–10.15am at Upton Village Hall by clicking here .

Mondays can feel a bit full-on. That’s exactly why I run a calm, focused Pilates class in Upton Village Hall every Monday from 9.30–10.15am. In 45 minutes we move with purpose, breathe well and build strength where it matters. You’ll leave feeling steadier, taller and ready for the week. Why Monday morning Pilates works Consistency without overwhelm: A short, structured Monday morning Pilates session sets a positive tone without taking over your day. Strength and mobility: We focus on core, hips and back to support posture and everyday movement. Small group attention: I keep numbers manageable so I can coach technique and offer options for all levels. What we do in class Expect a blend of mat Pilates exercises for spinal mobility, core stability and shoulder/hip control. I coach clear cues and give regressions or progressions so beginners and regulars can train together. You won’t need to keep up with anyone else; I’ll help you find the version that suits your body today. Who it’s for New to Pilates and want a friendly start Lifting, running or cycling and want better movement quality Desk-based and feeling tight through the back, neck and hips Prefer a small group Pilates environment over a crowded studio What to bring A mat, some water and comfortable layers. If you have your own small props (e.g., a Pilates ball or light band), feel free to bring them, but everything can be done without. How to book Grab your spot here . When/where: Mondays, 9.30–10.15am, Upton Village Hall.

"I am going on a course" says my daughter. What sort of course" I replied. " A pilates retreat. Why don't you come?" "I have never done pilates before and certainly haven’t worn lycra. Where is it located?" I asked. In the Canary Islands she answered. Well I have never been there either! Three things to cross off my bucket list, I thought. The retreat was held at Playitas, Fuerteventura in a superb sporting resort next to the sea. Jo and her pilates group from Chester made me feel very welcome. An interesting group of ten, friendly, strong minded women all intent on keeping themselves fit. The five day course Jo had put together were varied from watching the sunrise over the mountain and sea to watching the sun go down on the beach. All very relaxing and meditative too. Of course, other sessions were more demanding for some!! Jo managed the group's abilities very well considering the wide range in the ages. Increasing the intensity of each move to suit the ability of each of us. Her relaxed style and sense of humour made the classes fun, interactive and informative. Opportunities at the retreat to participate in free sessions of other activities were also available to all and the Chester group challenged as many as they could fit in the day's schedule. The resort looked after their sporting enthusiasts very well with a range of excellent hotel accomodation, villas, apartments with all family needs. Also high on the list was the delicious food and varied menus prepared at the restaurants to feed those very hungry appetites. What more can one want! I certainly recommend pilates. It was my first experience and it certainly won't be my last. Thank you Jo for organising and leading this memorable pilates retreat. Patricia Watts from Wellington, New Zealand. 5 May 2025 If you're interested in joining the retreat next year, join the waiting list by clicking here :

Aldi Pilates Equipment Review – Budget-Friendly or Just Cheap? If you've spotted Aldi’s fitness range in the middle aisle and wondered whether it's actually any good, you're not alone. As a personal trainer and Pilates instructor, I’m always curious (and sometimes sceptical) about low-cost workout gear – especially when it promises the same results as more expensive options. So, I picked up a selection of Pilates equipment from Aldi and gave it a proper test to see if it’s worth your time and money. In this post, I’ll give you a quick overview of what I tried, how it performed, and whether I’d recommend it. If you prefer to watch rather than read, scroll to the bottom for the full video review. What’s in the Aldi Pilates Kit? Aldi’s range can vary depending on the week, but the kit I tested included: Pilates ring Resistance band Exercise mat Small hand weights Massage ball Each item is designed for home use, and the prices are definitely appealing – most are under £10. First Impressions Straight out of the packaging, I was pleasantly surprised. The design is simple, the colours are neutral, and nothing feels overly gimmicky. That said, you can usually spot a difference in quality when comparing budget equipment to studio-grade gear – and Aldi’s kit is no exception. The mat, for example, is fine for low-impact movement but might not offer enough support if you’re on hard floors. The Pilates ring feels fairly sturdy, though not as durable as some professional ones I’ve used. Still, for beginners or occasional use, it’s not bad at all. How Did It Perform? I ran a few typical Pilates sessions using only the Aldi kit. Here’s what stood out: 👍 Pros: Incredibly affordable Light and easy to store Great for beginners or casual home workouts Ideal if you’re just getting started and don’t want to spend a fortune 👎 Cons: Some items lack durability Not suitable for more advanced training Resistance band was a bit too stretchy for my liking Final Verdict If you’re looking for budget Pilates equipment to use at home, Aldi’s kit is a decent place to start. It won’t replace studio-quality gear, but for the price, it does the job – especially if you're new to Pilates or just want a few extras to support your home workouts. It’s also a great option if you're unsure about committing to more expensive equipment. Just bear in mind that you may eventually want to upgrade if you stick with it. Watch the Full Review Want to see how the equipment held up in action? I filmed a full, honest review where I test each piece and share my unfiltered thoughts. 👉 Watch the video here (insert your YouTube link) Final Thoughts Aldi’s Pilates equipment isn’t going to replace what you’d find in a professional studio, but if you’re after an affordable way to get moving at home, it’s definitely worth considering. As always, it depends on your goals and how often you’ll use it. Have you tried any of Aldi’s fitness gear? I’d love to hear your experience – drop me a message or comment on the video. Tags (for SEO): Aldi Pilates review, budget fitness equipment, Pilates at home, affordable Pilates kit, Aldi workout gear, home Pilates setup, fitness on a budget, Aldi fitness equipment, UK home workouts, Pilates gear review

New Pilates Class in Upton-by-Chester – Join Us at Upton Village Hall! Are you looking for a new way to improve your strength, flexibility, and overall well-being? I'm excited to announce a brand-new Pilates class starting at Upton Village Hall in Upton-by-Chester! 📅 When? Every Monday ⏰ Time? 9:30 AM – 10:15 AM 📍 Where? Upton Village Hall, Upton, Chester Pilates is a fantastic low-impact exercise that focuses on core strength, posture, balance, and controlled movement. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have experience, this class is designed to suit all abilities. Why Join My Pilates Class? ✔️ Improve flexibility and strength ✔️ Boost core stability and posture ✔️ Relieve tension and stress ✔️ Suitable for all fitness levels This is the perfect way to start your week feeling refreshed and energised. Plus, you’ll be joining a friendly local group right here in Upton, Chester! How to Book Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot! For more details or to book your place, see the bookings page of the website. I can’t wait to see you at Upton Village Hall for a fantastic Pilates session! 🧘‍♀️💪

Build Your Home Gym: Essential Fitness Equipment Guide 🏋️‍♀️✨ Are you looking to buy some fitness kit for your home workouts? On a budget or not sure where to start? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Read on to find my top 10 must haves for your home gym. Whether you are a complete beginner or you’re getting back into fitness, I have something for you. 1. Yoga Mat: A staple for any home gym, a good yoga mat provides comfort during floor exercises, yoga or Pilates sessions, or core exercises. Look for one with good grip and durability. Thicker mats are great for comfort but will make balancing exercises more challenging. Mats do not need to be expensive. I tend to get mine from Aldi (when they have them in special buys) or TKMax. 2. Resistance Bands: Versatile and small, resistance bands add resistance to your workouts, targeting various muscle groups. Perfect for strength training and toning. These are great if you have limited space or want to take them away with you. They are sold in a variety of styles and strengths. If you are fortunate to have a Decathlon shop near you, they have a great selection which you can try before buying. 3. Dumbbells: An essential for strength training, dumbbells come in various weights, making them adaptable to your fitness level. They come in various styles and materials. I have a video explaining how to choose the right weight (link below). Get in touch if you want links to companies to buy from. https://youtube.com/shorts/_AbGDz677dM?si=bbHozoxqvYk7HYsH 4. Kettlebell(s): These are one of my favourite bits of kit. There are lots of exercises which can be performed with them and they are a great thing to own as well as a pair of dumbbells. Avoid the plastic ones or the ones with square handles. Again, get in touch if you want links to kettlebells I recommend. 5. Stability Ball: Improve core strength and stability with a stability ball. Great for bodyweight exercises and challenging your balance. These take up a lot of space though so factor that in before buying. 6. Foam Roller: Aid muscle recovery and reduce muscle soreness with a foam roller. Incorporate it into your post-workout routine for a self-massage. There are conflicting opinions around the effectiveness of foam rollers. If you like them then use them, if not, don’t. They come in different textures and sizes and don’t need to be expensive. I like the long ones as they can be used in some Pilates exercises. 7. Tennis Ball: This might seem like a strange one but tennis balls (or any other similar ball) are great for massage. I actually prefer them to foam rollers as you can target areas more specifically. Try rolling them under your foot to release any tension or lean against it pressed up against the wall to massage your back and shoulders. Ignore the strange looks you’ll get from your family! 8. Fitness Tracker: You’ll either love or hate fitness trackers. I personally find it motivating (occasionally irritating) to track my exercise and activity. The cost of trackers varies dramatically. If this is your first tracker, don’t go for the top end model. Try one of the cheaper ones or even a second hand one to see if you like it first. 9. Workout Gear: I am a big believer that you are more likely to exercise in clothing you enjoy wearing. Working out in sweatpants and your partners old t-shirt is unlikely to make you feel good about yourself. Invest in something you feel comfortable and confident in. Those of you who know me know about my Vinted obsession. There are some great bargains to be had on fitness gear. Tell me what you get if you buy anything please! 10. Online Class Subscription: It can be incredibly hard to motivate yourself to workout at home. Make it easier for yourself by using online classes or workouts. There are options for every budget. Free workouts on YouTube, app subscriptions from celebrities, or online workouts from local instructors*. Choose what works for you. *You can find my online course using the link below: https://www.jobridgefitness.com/newpage Building your home gym doesn't have to break the bank. Look for budget-friendly options and gradually expand your collection as your fitness routine evolves. Remember, the key is consistency and finding enjoyment in your fitness journey! Get more tips on my YouTube playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7kWWKELW7YKB5szbhFwGQ02yH9VyTgf3 Please get in touch if you need any more advice about buying fitness equipment. Have a great week, Jo

👋 Welcome to Jo Bridge Fitness 👋 If you are looking for somewhere where exercise is about building confidence and having fun then you are in the right place. 🚫 You’re not going to find quick fix body transformations, images or videos of people pulling at wobbly arms or tummies, or confusing and conflicting advice on what you MUST do to be healthy. 🚫 ✅ Instead you will find accessible, relatable and realistic information on how to build a healthy relationship with fitness and learn to love moving your body. ✅ I hated PE at school and didn’t get into fitness until my mid 20s. I ended up working in fitness after getting drunk and entering a marathon! (You can find that story on my blog on the website) I’ve been working in fitness since 2012 both as a fitness instructor and personal trainer. I now run a boutique personal training studio dedicated to 121 and small group training. 👉 Maximum of 6 people in classes. 👉 121 clients have the whole space to themselves - although you may have to share with Jess (gym dog). 👉 The studio and equipment are kept clean and tidy - no sweaty equipment. 📍Find me in Upton, Chester. I will soon be launching an online class membership. Follow @the20minutemembership for more details. If you’d like to become part of the Jo Bridge Fitness community then check out my class timetable or take a look at my website for details on how to train with me. Please get in touch if you have any questions.

Introduction: Embarking on a fitness journey can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're looking to lose weight, gain muscle, improve endurance, or enhance overall well-being, setting goals is crucial for staying motivated and measuring progress. When it comes to goal setting, the SMART framework is an invaluable tool that can pave the way to fitness success. In this blog post, we'll explore the concept of SMART goals and how they can be applied to your fitness aspirations. What are SMART Goals? SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. By adhering to these five key principles, you can establish clear and actionable goals that propel you forward on your fitness journey. Specific : The first step in setting a SMART fitness goal is to make it specific. Instead of a vague goal like "get fit," define what you want to achieve precisely. For example, "lose 5kg," "run a 5K in under 30 minutes," or "increase squat weight by 10kg." Measurable : It's crucial to establish metrics to track your progress. Measurable goals provide concrete evidence of your achievements. For instance, you can track weight lost, inches gained or lost, or the time it takes you to complete a particular workout. Achievable : Setting realistic goals is key to maintaining motivation and preventing disappointment. Consider your current fitness level, time constraints, and resources available to ensure your goals are attainable. Aim for challenging targets that push you out of your comfort zone but remain within reach with consistent effort. Relevant : Goals should align with your overarching fitness aspirations. Consider why you want to achieve a specific goal and how it fits into your broader fitness journey. Ensure that your goals are relevant to your personal values, lifestyle, and long-term vision. Time-bound : Setting a deadline creates a sense of urgency and helps you stay focused. Establish a specific timeframe within which you want to accomplish your goal. For instance, "hit my squat weight target in 2 months" or "run a 5K race within six weeks." Applying SMART Goals to Fitness : Now that we understand the SMART principles, let's see how they can be applied to different fitness scenarios: Weight Loss : Instead of a generic goal like "lose weight," a SMART goal would be "lose 10 pounds in three months by exercising five days a week and following a balanced diet." This goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Strength Training : Rather than aiming for a vague goal like "get stronger," a SMART goal could be "increase my squat weight by 10kg within two months by following a structured training program." This goal provides a clear target, measurable progress, a realistic challenge, relevance to strength training, and a defined timeline. Cardiovascular Fitness : Instead of a general objective like "improve endurance," a SMART goal could be "run a 10K race in under one hour in four months by gradually increasing my weekly running mileage." This goal sets a specific distance and time, allows for progress tracking, is achievable with dedicated training, aligns with cardiovascular fitness, and sets a timeframe. Benefits of SMART Goals: Implementing the SMART goal-setting framework in your fitness journey offers several benefits: Clarity and Focus : SMART goals provide clear directions, reducing ambiguity and increasing focus. They help you understand precisely what you need to achieve and the steps required to get there. Motivation and Accountability : SMART goals provide tangible milestones to strive for, keeping you motivated and committed to your fitness regimen. Additionally, the specificity and measurability of SMART goals make it easier to hold yourself accountable. Give it a go. Please feel free to get in touch if you need help making your goals SMART.