The At Back to Basics, the impact of Pilates is best told by the people who show up, week after week, and experience the changes for themselves. These are their words.
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“When I moved to Oasis Burgundy in March 2024, I was facing a future filled with uncertainty. After hospital testing, I had been diagnosed with dementia. Another specialist warned that my hips would eventually need replacing.
But instead of slowing down, I started showing up — twice a week — to Michele’s Back to Basics classes. What happened next changed everything. My balance improved and my confidence grew. The mental stimulation brought clarity.
Today, I have been taken off medication I never needed… and my psychologist has told me there’s no reason to return. Even more remarkable?
Despite having almost no cartilage in my hips, I now walk my dog 5–8km every single day — with little to no pain. My specialist has since confirmed: no hip replacement needed.
I believe it all comes down to the care, precision, and dedication I experience in every Back to Basics class. I am truly proof of Michele’s knowledge and commitment… I am so grateful.” — Stefani D. Morse (78)
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“I participate in Michele’s Pilates classes because it is both enjoyable and highly beneficial. It combines gentle, controlled movement with focused breathing and concentration. The exercises strengthen the core muscles, which is especially important for maintaining good balance and posture as we grow older.
Pilates also improves flexibility and joint mobility, helping the body feel looser and more comfortable in everyday activities. The calm, structured environment of a class encourages relaxation while still providing a satisfying physical challenge.
Because movements can be adapted to different fitness levels, it is suitable and safe for people of all ages. I have found that regular attendance has reduced my back pain, enhanced coordination, and increased overall body awareness. In addition, the social aspect of attending a class adds motivation and a sense of community. I have made many friends as a result of participating regularly in Back to Basics classes.
Pilates offers a balanced approach to fitness that supports both physical health and mental well-being.” — Mike Manicom
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“I started 10 months ago to do more exercises, Pilates and movement classes. After 2 to 3 weeks I felt less aches and pains in my body. After 3 months my friends asked me what I was doing because I was moving with more agility.
I remember looking at my social and golfing friends and thinking they had aged. I started to play golf without having a sore back and played the best round of golf for 5 years. My range of movement and ability to perform tasks without any pain can only be put down to a fitter and more flexible body.” — Eric Oates
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“Unaccustomed as I am to public speaking, I thank you and present my referral.
Why Pilates?
Michelle, our instructor, understands the mind, the body, human movement and anatomy. She is extremely careful to explain the pros and cons of the exercises to participants and to highlight any safety concerns. Pilates exercises are known to increase stability, core strength, posture, flexibility and mindful breathing.
I joined Pilates classes not just because Michelle has a sense of humour, but because I saw in those exercises I was getting stronger in those core areas. I’m more conscious of my body, my muscles are more toned and defined. My core is stronger — although I need more work on my abdominals, but hell, Rome wasn’t built in a day.
Many of the exercises remind me of my younger days when I used to do Pilates, but now the reacquaintance is an inspiration to me.” — John Leach
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“I started with Michelle in 2019 after I hurt my back from a fall. Just to let you know, I don’t like exercise. So much so that at boarding school, I hid in my cupboard whenever I could to avoid it.
The classes at Michelle’s studio are a lot more interesting. During COVID, I followed the live stream from Michelle’s studio. Ron figured I was wasting my time — he thought only gym works. Now he’s doing it too.
In 2022, when we moved to Oasis, I cancelled my classes with Michelle only for her to tell me that she was the instructor. That was a great surprise. I wasn’t sure I was going to take part until I found out she was the instructor.
Long story short, here I am 8 years later. I am a lot more supple and fitter than I have been in a long time. I can touch my toes with flat hands.
By the way, I still don’t like exercising. Just thought I would mention it to you.
PS: Michelle is a great instructor and motivator!” — Maya Rau
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These stories speak for themselves — different starting points, different journeys, but one common thread: consistent, guided movement that makes a real difference available from Back to Basics Pilates, Yoga and Personal Training Studio.