Ro Jameson Ashworth launched PerfectFit Pilates in 2000 teaching mat classes in hired venues in Bishops Stortford (at the football club), Dunmow (in the Maltings) and Saffron Walden (at The Friends School & The Saffron School of Dance). The opportunity to establish a permanent studio came in 2002, when Ro rented space at Gt Hadham Golf & Country Club. The original space has since doubled to accommodate specialist Pilates exercise machines, (Reformers, Cadillacs & Chairs & Ladder Barrel), and equipment in an adjacent Mat studio.

Ro trained with and is accredited by the Body Control Pilates Association. She stresses the need for well-qualified teaching. “Anyone taking up Pilates should check the credentials of the instructors. Accrediting organisations such as Body Control Pilates and Stott Pilates require success in examinations, on-going training and many hours of teaching practice before their instructors are able to take classes on their own account. Class sizes should be small – certainly no more than 12 – and beginners should master the basic principles on mat before progressing to use of specialist Pilates machines such as reformers.” Ro works in the studio with 4 other regular teachers and two or three others who provide cover on an ad hoc basis. All the PerfectFit teachers have accreditation to an advanced level with BCPA or Stott Pilates, the two leading training associations in the UK.

The standard of care and quality of teaching of the PerfectFit team is recognised by the medical profession locally; several physiotherapists, osteopaths and GPs refer patients to the studio on a regular basis. Pilates can be an excellent road to rehabilitation for those who have suffered injury or have a recurring physical problem or pain. But it can also help prevent problems and enhance performance in sport by improving flexibility and core strength. And it makes people both look and feel better.

Ro and her team have 30 years’ experience between them teaching both mat and reformer to clients whose ages range from 14 to 85. There are 30 mat and reformer classes to choose from each week – please check out the 2016 class schedule to find a time and ability level to suit you.