Movement

My intention of working with Joe was to improve my core strength. I wanted to feel better in my body. With the caring encouragement, knowledge and support of Joe, I?ve absolutely achieved this objective. Throw away any preconceived ideas you have about personal trainers being loud, bullying and mean! Joe breaks the mould. He balances rigour, science and deep knowledge about the body with a soft touch that has you work hard almost without knowing it.

I am a 58 year old university lecturer and I am amazed to think that it has been over 2 years since I started working with Joe at Reshape fitness. I think the length of time I have stayed with Joe's exercise class is, in itself, a testament to their effectiveness. In the past I was rather fickle and took classes for a few months before trailing off and then spending time thinking I really should be doing something, before once again finding a new exercise style, a new class and a new teacher. So why have I stayed with Joe's classes? Joe is unfailing supportive and positive during class, creating a very safe and calm environment for all those taking part no matter what their level of fitness is. His experience of running classes means he can effortlessly cater to all the different needs of his students in one space. The classes run smoothly from one exercise to the next and Joe's deep knowledge of anatomy and exercise means he is able to explain the reasons behind the choice of exercise and what you should be paying attention to while doing the exercises. The exercises are a blend of pilates, yoga and calisthenics and so do not rely on the intense aerobic activity of traditional exercise classes. However, the exercises are very focused and work the muscles just as intensely as traditional aerobic classes, just without the wear and tear on the joints. I am a very keen gardener and do a lot of lugging compost bags and digging, but since working with Joe, I do not have a sore back at the end of a day on the allotment. I have also ceased to have a problem with my knees. So, I do feel that all the work I have done with Joe over the last 2 years has really made a difference to the quality of my life.

Thank you for all of your support and kindness Joe. It's been eye opening to say the least. I really feel that I have finally broken the cycle of dieting and weight gain, and I am feeling much more comfortable and capable in my body.

Joe has been working with me for 6 months now. His guidance and coaching have made a huge difference to me. I had a lot of arthritic pain in my hips and was generally just plain stiff! I feel so much better now. No pain killers and I can move around so much more freely. Joe's patient but firm style is exactly right even though I still have to put in the work! Thank you so much Joe.

This class is fantastic. A very new yet extremely effective way to get toned, stretch, breath and de-stress. It can be as hard or as easy as you want it to be. Joe is a fantastic teacher! After this class I felt toned but also my soul felt lighter and clearer!

I have no doubt that were it not for Joe and our sessions together, I would not be getting around in the way that I am. I suffered from back pain for years and had found that my strength and balance were deteriorating. My back is now better than it's been for many years and I feel confident going about town and spending time in the garden.

Joe has been extremely helpful to me in turning my life around and I feel much better for it. He is a wealth of knowledge and extremely understanding and encouraging. I would recommend him to all!

My three month period with you has transformed my life in a number of ways, both mentally and physically. My understanding of nutrition and my eating habits are much better - I can tell by reading my old food diary. And I feed me and my husband your recipes regularly! I have also kept lifestyle changes up, have a strict rule about keeping devices downstairs for example. I've taken it a step further this year and removed Facebook from my phone. All helping with stress and concentration and I am sleeping better. I wish I could pick our sessions up again, I loved them. Thank you. You have made a lasting difference and it was at a time I really needed it!

We attended Joe's classes, and found them excellent. The exercises supported us with our various aches and pains. Joe is a fantastic coach and very knowledgeable. We recommend him. Thank you Joe.

Equilibrium for me is the most amazing class, it?s a toning and strengthening workout using the combined elements of Yoga and pilates. No need for dumbbells and gym equipment we do everything using our body to tone and sculpt. I like to have a challenging work out but I don?t want to put stress on my back and knees and this is what this class does. I love it!

I have only been working with Jo for a few weeks now but already I feel fitter and stronger. I have lost weight and my core is stronger enabling to maintain my balance while walking in wet and muddy conditions. Previously when I slipped I would finish up in the mud but now I am able to keep my balance.I am over 70 now but feel fitter than I was 5 years ago with fewer injuries, such as pulled muscles.

I have suffered with back, neck and shoulder problems for some time and following advice from my osteopath and physio I looked at trying a more gentle form of exercise to strengthen and stretch the problem areas (I had been using a gym which exasperated the issues). Joe's classes have taught me that small movements and stretches can be more beneficial and have certainly eased my aches and pains. That said, I definitely feel as though I have worked out during the sessions! I have also felt confident enough to continue with some stretches at home during the summer break. Joe is a great teacher with a calm and positive manner. He finds out what areas need to be worked on and comes up with a range of exercises that give a deep and effective workout. He never pushes you too far but aims to encourage you to achieve your very best.