Alexander Technique

We are very priviledged to have Johan Zwaenepoel offering Alexander Technique lessons at Cobham Pilates.  

The Alexander Technique teaches a way to develop the skillful use of the self: how we move, how we stay still, how we breathe, how we learn and how we organise our awareness and attention.

Alexander work is a process that enables us, in a gentle and systematic way, to let go of long-held patterns of movement, posture, breathing and muscular tension, and other habits that might be affecting our well-being, learning abilities and psychological stress reactions.

It is a subtle, thoughtful and practical discipline. Using the Alexander Technique we learn to re-establish the natural relationship between the head, the neck and the back — supporting the movement of the limbs and providing the structural environment for efficient breathing and for the healthy working of the internal organs.

The natural relationship of the head, neck, and back can be seen working powerfully, beautifully and effortlessly in most small children. Most people lose this ease of activity as the kind of misuse that come with stress, accidents or age means that acquired habits of movement and tension interfere progressively with their healthy natural patterns of co-ordination. However, it can be regained.

The Alexander Technique can improve personal performance across the whole spectrum of human activity, from elite athletic or artistic performance to the management of disability, pain, illness or injury. Its value is widely recognised, and for many years there have been Alexander teachers in drama, music and other educational colleges as well as hospitals and pain clinics.

It is possible for practically anyone to rediscover freedom and ease in movement by learning to become aware of, and then learning gradually to strip away, stressful habits of movement, tension and reaction that interfere with, distort or obscure natural and healthy patterns of co-ordination. With improved and more balanced use of the self, physically and psychologically, comes a release of energy and a better standard of overall health.

An Alexander teacher works with an individual — verbally and with a gentle touch — helping them to overcome their own particular difficulties and to learn to incorporate the Alexander work into their own understanding so they can use it throughout their lives. All STAT trained teachers have taken a three-year full-time course of teacher training (Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique). 

What Clients Say

Regardless of how I feel when I arrive at my Monday morning matclass, I leave feeling a million dollars! The one on one attention is superb and there is a constant banter to keep a smile on your face at the most challenging of times and believe me there are lots of those! Not only will you feel great after each class but the results are fabulous! I am eternally grateful! Thank you Cobham Pilates.

Marcella Maytum, Bookham

As an experienced traveler and health retreat enthusiast, I find Cobham Pilates to be quite the gem. With elite pilates instructors, customized sessions, a warm and friendly staff, and an uplifting philosophy that incorporates, mind, body, soul, Cobham Pilates is more life partner than fitness centre. It's light, airy and modern environment make me feel I am back home in Los Angeles. Two thumbs up!

Maryna Hrushetska, aka Ms. Cosmopolite, Los Angeles, USA

The teachers have a fantastic ability to explain every movement in such detail that I know I’m exercising to my full potential. I get individual attention when I need it, as does everyone in the class, and best of all we have fun! I have seen a big difference in my body and I find myself motivated to improve my technique with each session. This is one exercise routine I won’t be giving up!

Vanessa Corrigan, Oxshott

Pilates is by far the best exercise I have ever done. For several years I suffered back ache and through working on my core stability, not only have I strengthened my back, relieving the pain, I have also improved my posture greatly, and as a result I look two dress sizes smaller and much more toned. Thanks for all the encouragement and humour you bring to my workout. It's always a pleasure.

Audrey Giles, Cobham

I love my new found Pilates posture....I was complimented for being able (at my age) to stand up from a sofa on stage without using my hands....My spare tyre is diminishing!...I can now walk up stairs without hanging on to the bannister! My wrists are no longer in agony when I do the 'cat'!

Geraldine Guthrie, East Horsley

Pilates really has transformed my life. I feel stronger, have better posture and better tone. Donna is an excellent teacher who takes the time to explain everything very clearly and makes Pilates thoroughly enjoyable - I wouldn't go anywhere else!

Marie Claire Lakin, Cobham

I just wanted to thank you for yesterday. After the class it was the first time after my injury that I could go down the stairs with no pain. Also this morning for the first time I had no pain when I got out of bed. This is the second time you're treating me (my back pain and now my knee) and reducing my constant pain and for that I'm immensely grateful. Tomorrow my doctor is going to look at the MRI and give his prognosis. I'm quite positive and think with the right movements (with your help) I'll recover soon. Million thanks again.

Rozita Pourtaheri, Epsom

Having battled through a difficult first pregnancy plagued with terrible back and pelvic pain I decided to try Pilates during my second pregnancy. The difference has been unbelievable. I have had a wonderfully easy and pain free pregnancy and have remained strong and supple. Thanks to Pilates I have been able to really enjoy being pregnant this time around!

Debbie Smith, Cobham

I had the most wonderful time as well as giving my abs the workout of their lives! The whole atmosphere at the villa is one of tranquility and calm plus it has 5 star food. It was so refreshing to get away from my busy life and spend quality time laughing and being looked after - I booked my place on the next retreat before this one was even over!

Jenny Saunders, Cobham

Your studio is truly unique in it's ability to be so warm and welcoming while providing the BEST PILATES INSTRUCTION! Your instructors understand the essence of pilates and so the skill level is so high. Yet, you've managed to find some of the lovliest people in the world. You and your studio are truly missed. I have not found anything even close to it in Chicago or New Hampshire. You and your studio are a English treasure.

Lisa Dufour, New Hampshire, USA, formerly of Cobham

I just wanted to send you a message as I am so pleased. I walked 23 miles on Sunday with no other training than your wonderful pilates classes. It is a great personal achievement for me, I can’t believe I did it and two days later I have very little stiffness.Thanks!

Gill Bowerman, Cobham

Being passionate about running and leading a very hectic life as a PR Manager and a hands-on-mum of 2, I discovered a place where I can focus on what I had been ignoring for a while.....me and my body! Never before have I learnt so much about my body, my capabilities and my inner strength as when I was introduced to Cobham Pilates. The attention to detail and personal approach by the teachers is unheard of and I feel 'on top of the world' after every session.'

Petra van Meeuwen Cobham

Facebook
Body Control Pilates Certified Teacher Body Control Pilates Register of Exercise Professionals