Class Member

Reviews from Stretchworks class members

Stretchworks, run by Alison, is like no other exercise class I have ever experienced | Aidan

While many other exercise regimes are about building muscle, and tend to just focus on one area of the body or a specific muscle group which can lead to imbalance and bulking, Stretchworks elongates and strengthens the whole body. Stretchworks has shaped and defined my body like no other workout. I feel like I’ve grown 2 inches taller! It has also been liberating as far as controlling my weight achieved without the usual stress and anxieties that often come with trying to lose weight. | Jacky

Before I did Alison’s Stretchworks, I spent a lot of time in rehab with one injury after another. Her programmes have enabled me to play football without injury for the past 2 seasons. Out of all the fitness regimes, this is the hardest one in terms of focus, controlled strength and flexibility, but the most beneficial in maintaining optimum fitness. | Alan

It’s unusual to have a class which is so in tune with the body and rigorous at the same time. Alison’s approach is incredibly supportive, not only to myself, but with the entire group and somehow she knows who needs additional support. It’s a class which can be taken at any level from beginner to advanced. It’s a class without limits and one that I think I could continue learning from, and stretching myself with, for the rest of my life. | Liz

Since doing the class I have not had to go back to the physiotherapist for lower back problems. | David

Recently, I had breast cancer which resulted in a mastectomy and lymphatic surgery. The Stretchworks classes have been invaluable to me in my recovery programme. My scar tissue is recovering and slowly I have regained the use of my right arm. Alison has monitored my movements in class, supported and worked with me. To date I have had no lymphedema and I am slowly getting back to my normal level of fitness. | Paula

I have a back problem and this is the only class that I have ever attended which keeps away my backache. I suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and attending Alison’s classes helps to keep me supple and my joints moving. Claire

You feel that Alison’s gentle stretches have given your body a thorough workout while at the same time your mind has been cleared of negativities and you finish the class with an overwhelming sense of calm and optimism. Vivienne

Alison welcomes all abilities, ages and gender. The combination of exercises and music provides an excellent and surprisingly thorough workout whilst not appearing like hard work. I enjoy the fact that I can drop into a session and miss a few weeks and slot straight back in. Mike

When I first attended Alison’s class 8 years ago, I was an older, overweight mum. My confidence was low, so low that I told Alison that I thought I was too fat to be able to do her class. She said I wasn’t and that anyone could do her class. Now, after 8 years I am more flexible and in tune with my body. Carol

It is like a weekly massage of all your muscle groups. Sophie

Everyone works at his or her own pace, aiming to improve individual performance. Stretchworks has a good mix of flexibility, strengthening and relaxation exercises which works on all parts of the body, especially areas which may be overlooked in other exercise classes e.g. ankles, neck, shoulders. Dorrie

Stretchworks makes me physically stronger, suppler and less stiff. It has also helped my posture and relaxes me when I am feeling stressed. I have a recurring stiff shoulder and neck, the after effects of frozen shoulder as a result of breast cancer. Stretchworks works through every area of the body and it doesn?t feel like working. It is a gentle approach and it is easy in the class to work to one’s own level. Pam

Alison has an incredibly rare ability to empathise and care for the people who come to the classes, her keen eye and sensitivity have touched us all. Carla