Mobilates - Accessible Exercise Case Study
- timetoheal1210
- 5 hours ago
- 4 min read
I’m an active member of Mobilates - a specialised Pilates programme specifically designed for those with long-term health conditions and mobility issues. These sessions have become a vital part of my physiotherapy supporting my Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Neurological Movement Disorder, Addison’s Disease and Psychosis.
I joined in December 2023, having heard about them through EDS UK. I signed up for a week’s trial and then had no hesitation in joining as a full member with unlimited access to classes.
The amazing team deliver a range of sessions that are adapted to match the needs of every individual who takes part. Doing them over Zoom means I can attend more sessions than I could if they were held in person. I was really nervous about the camera and seeing myself on screen at first, but now I see it as really good feedback. I’m surprised at how quickly I adapted and got used to it.
If adaptations are needed in class, you don’t feel picked out or different, everything has a caring and supportive nature, and everyone else gets it. We can just sit and watch if that's all we feel up to, and there’s no judgment if we need to rest or make changes to get through a class.
The whole community, or ‘The Mob’ have taught me so much about my conditions, especially EDS.
We are so lucky to have socials, chat and craft sessions, togetherness and a book club to go alongside the physical side.
I love doing sessions with other people with similar health issues instead of physio on my own. I don’t need to think about what to do – it doesn’t matter what the moves are, I know they are benefiting and helping in the long run.
A typical week for me…
Monday evening and a traditional standing and lying Pilates class that focuses on the key principles of Pilates, including controlled functional movement, breathing, balance, alignment and core strength. We work through classical and modern Pilates moves led by the talented, bubbly, charismatic and inspiring Leanne.
On Tuesday, it's a short, sharp start to the day with an equipment class. Then in the evening we rotate! I gift myself an hour of Togetherness to support my mental health and well-being twice a month. Callie's calming, reassuring voice and unrivalled support are a total sanctuary. We do yoga Nidra, meditations, visualisation, and get creative together, all whilst chatting and enjoying each other’s company. We try new things - often things I’ve never heard of before and wouldn’t have tried if it wasn’t for Mobilates.
On the other weeks Kerry leads us through on the ball and boost your bones, which are really functional movement-based classes.
Wednesday and it’s lite with the lovely, caring and soothing Kerry. This class focuses on balance, core strength and mobility. It’s a slower-paced session but with lots of options and adaptations.
Thursday - Double session starting with a morning mixed class. Then it’s Sit fit in the afternoon - I love this class! Set to music and all done sitting down! It’s a real test of coordination, and we always have a good laugh at our inability to do the moves.
Friday - Walk Fit - A higher tempo, low-impact class with simple walk patterns to music. A way to get sweaty together and start our day on a high. With the support of Leanne, we usually manage anything up to 2,000 steps in 25 minutes. This is then followed by another equipment session to get us strong.
Saturday - Move and chat. We do 30 minutes of gentle exercise followed by 30 minutes of chatting or crafting, depending on who facilitates the session.
I love how we always end every class by scooping up the air, bringing our hands together in front of our chests and celebrating what our bodies have enabled us to achieve, removing the focus from our limitations.
In the 18 months that I have been a member of Mobilates, I have learnt so much and am so grateful to Leanne, Kerry and Callie for their friendship, unconditional love, knowledge, desire, passion, and drive to support us all despite their own battles. Combined with new treatments, physio and knowledge, I have made massive progress.
I had previously thought other people were more capable and felt if I couldn’t do things, it was me being a failure, but now I realise my difficulties are actually symptoms of my medical conditions.
I was completely reliant on crutches and my wheelchair. I can now move a little without crutches and with less weight when using crutches. I use my wheelchair better as my posture has improved. I had one very weak side that has now really improved and strengthened, and my mental health is better.
I look forward to every single session and love the variety of classes on offer. They really do have something for everyone — there are many more options available than the ones I have mentioned! Including a new addition - bed pilates!
The message I would give to others is to just give it a try! Experiment with all the classes to see which ones are right for you. Different classes, different times of the day. Work with your medical team and physiotherapist. Communicate with Leanne, Kerry and Callie and be honest about your conditions and problems – there’s always a solution or an adaptation.
You get introduced to new things, trying them in a place where you are safe and supported. In time, you feel that you can say and do anything without judgment. You’ll spend time doing everyday activities consciously in class, but in time this naturally moves over to daily life without you realising.
I have made so many friends, and the time I devote to this community has been time and money well invested. I can’t imagine life without Mobilates in it or the amazing people who are a part of it. It really is a lifeline for so many, and I’m so grateful to be one of them.
If you are lucky enough to live in Kent or Exeter, there are some in-person classes available. There are also some Accessible Exercise Roadshows coming up in Kent and Warrington.
For more information about Mobilates, click the links below:
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