
Discover essential preparation for class, from mats, straps, and resistance bands to improvised weights, a myofascial ball, blocks, chairs, clothing, footwear, and safe setups.
Explore how the central nervous system coordinates movement and how neuroplasticity supports learning through mindful repetition. Understand common impairments and the scope of practice to adapt and refer.
Practice a guided meditation with diaphragmatic breathing and sea-side visualization to cultivate calm, focus, and bodily awareness.
Explore dementia types, movement benefits, and practical adaptations for cognitive decline. Use rhythm, repetition, chair support, and clear communication to enhance safety and learning.
Guide a mindful body scan that emphasizes deep breathing and progressive relaxation from toes to head, noticing sensations and releasing tension for a calm body.
If you have a neurological condition such as dementia, Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, peripheral neuropathy, adult cerebral palsy, stroke recovery or FND or you are a Pilates, fitness or movement professional wishing to help your clients, this course is for you. You will gain insights into the causes, symptoms, benefits of exercise and key areas to focus on. Exercise is known to be neuroprotective, meaning that it preserves brain health and the brain’s neuroplasticity. Exercise increases the brain’s ability to form new neural pathways and connections which is crucial in the recovery from neurological conditions or in slowing down degenerative disease.
I have provided classes to help with strength, balance, posture, co-ordination, flexibility and mobility. Classes are varied: Pilates, balance, stretch, mobility, seated, on the mat, standing - all can be adapted to meet the needs of the individual. I also include relaxation and meditation to help regulate the nervous system and improve mood, so often affected by long-term health issues.
According to the World Health Organisation, over 1 in 3 people are (or will be) affected by neurological conditions, the leading cause of illness and disability worldwide. Scientific research has found overwhelming evidence proving that exercise can significantly improve both physical and mental health, yet finding suitable exercise classes can be almost impossible.
Exercise offers reduced pain, greater mobility and flexibility, better balance and improved mental health leading to more independence and a better quality of life. This is a great benefit for anyone with a neurological condition, most of which will progress.
Conditions covered:
Dementia
Multiple Sclerosis
Parkinson's
Stroke Recovery
Peripheral Neuropathy
Adult Cerebral Palsy
Functional Neurological Disorder
Practical Classes:
There are mediation/relaxation classes and standing, seated and Pilates on the mat exercise classes
Dementia Chair Class
Dementia Pilates
Multiple Sclerosis Pilates
Parkinson's Standing Movement Class (can be adapted for chair)
Parkinson's Pilates
Stroke Recovery Pilates
Peripheral Neuropathy Chair Class
Cerebral Palsy Mobility & Flexibility - standing/seated
Whichever way you look at it, the information, classes and ideas shared on this course will enable you to significantly help yourself, a friend or a community if you are an instructor.