CARDIOPILATES – it sounds like a mix of cardiovascular work and pilates...

And by the looks of things, that’s exactly what it is.

Set up by Linda Donovan, the new WGC classes are designed to “increase the pace of classic pilates exercises”.

Linda, who has been a pilates and personal trainer for 16 years, told the Welwyn Hatfiled Times the new idea is to bond the two training methods into one to help people lose weight.

“It’s classic mat-based pilates exercises, while weaving in additional cardio moves taken from Joseph Pilates’ own original workouts.

“This fusion of classic pilates and fat burning cardio moves makes for a more invigorating work-out, improving cardiovascular fitness. And by firing up the body’s metabolism, it multiplies calories burnt, helping with weight loss too.”

Pilates was originated to tone, streamline and re-align participants’ bodies.

Working on core stability and strength, it is designed to help develop longer, leaner, stronger muscles, improving posture, flexibility and balance.

Importantly, to pilates regulars, the new training scheme doesn’t deviate far from the original moves, so consequently does not require high levels of co-ordination, dance or athletic agility.

According to Linda, a former professional dancer, it also therefore remains accessible to people put off cardio classes that require these skills.

The classes started on Monday and will continue each week from 7.15pm, at Christ the King Community Hall, Haldens.

There are no up-front charges and no need to book. It is �6 a class, pay on the night.

Linda’s regular classic Pilates classes continue as normal on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

For details call 07929 907743.