Emily’s Story

As someone with hypermobility, I have never enjoyed traditional exercise because it all felt too impactful on my joints. Learning that Reformer Pilates would be ideal for my needs, I decided to give The Ness Club a try.

After a huge change in my working life and my mental health suffering immensely because of it, going to The Ness Club has been my sanity and saviour. I am surrounded by such a positive community that respects that we are all on our own journeys, but we’re in it together. On a day when my mind really doesn't want me to be my best self, I show up. The instructors and other members are right there with me to push me forward.

Mostly we laugh together, sometimes we cry, but together we encourage and support. And in just a few short months, for the first time in my life, I am enjoying exercising.

I have learnt most of all that I am strong, mentally not just physically. I can push myself to do hard things, and everyone starts somewhere.

I look forward to my classes and consistently attend 3 times a week, and I long to get back in the studio if life means I’ve missed a class!
Yes, my body is changing, my strength is growing, and there’s even a little hint of muscle definition in places I’ve never seen them before, but what I wasn’t prepared for was a journey of so much more.

Since starting at The Ness Club, I have also begun running regularly, something I never thought I could do. The partnership between Pilates and other sports is truly complementary. Reformer Pilates, in particular, builds exactly the kind of mobility, strength and stability needed for running.

Next stop is my first 10k - then onto my first half marathon with my Ness Club friends cheering me on!

-Emily, 36