Testimonials

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"I joined Allison’s Pilates classes some years ago and am committed to continuing as I know the benefit it has to my physical fitness. Before this I never kept up any regular exercise or sport as I just didn’t think I was any good at it so all credit to Allison for keeping me interested. 

Allison is a great teacher. She is in tune with each class member and their individual body needs. Each class varies and the exercises alter depending on your own capabilities or preferences. They are never the same so keeps you on your toes but also a sociable event even on zoom! 

I need the discipline of attending a class to keep me committed and Allison’s classes are perfect for that whether on zoom or face to face. In my opinion they are very good value for a full hours workout.  I would highly recommend Fit and Fabulous classes for anyone who wants to look after their fitness and their bodies. It truly is rewarding. "  Anne Jan 22 

“I have participated in Allison’s Pilates classes for almost 2 years now.

I have greatly benefited from the sessions and my flexibility has certainly increased.

I am in the older age bracket and would certainly advise anyone similar to give it a go.

Allison is a patient teacher and her instructions are clear and easy to follow”  Ian Oct 21 

I have been doing pilates with Allison for some years now. Not only have I made some good friends along the way and had fun whilst trying to keep fit and supple, I have also benefitted hugely from the stretching and challenging of muscles that Allison is so thorough at working. I am a long term sufferer of multiple sclerosis and whilst I am unable to complete all the exercises with my limited balance, Allison has very discretely taught me alternatives to enable me to keep up and allow me to carry out the lesson at an appropriate level. As a result I am able to maintain as much flexibility and muscle strength as my condition allows. I look forward to seeing my pilates “family" on a Thursday morning and I would encourage anyone to join us. Sarah, Old Coulsdon. Oct 21 

I started Allison’s evening Pilates classes after seeing her pop up on my LinkedIn feed. As a fellow health professional I feel we share a lot of similar values and her caring nature resonated with me. I have had considerable physical health challenges after having life saving surgery 15 years ago, and have had chronic pelvic, back and hip pain ever since. My condition flared up at the end of last year and I was advised to embark on a rehabilitation programme with a specialist pain physio. I have been very conscientious and have been doing daily morning and evening exercises. But I felt I needed more. However, after another experience where I overstretched, I wanted a really gentle approach (even though I look very fit and healthy and I’m slim - looks can be deceiving). Allison ‘got' me completely and I am very pleased to report that any flare ups have been tiny and haven’t set me back. I feel I am progressing well, and even though I am tired in the evenings, I never regret doing one of her classes because I sleep better, and feel so much more relaxed afterwards. This carries on to the next day too. I would recommend anyone who has chronic pain to give Allison a try. If you want to talk any issues through or have any specific concerns, she gives you a very comprehensive introduction 1-1. I often feel her exercises are designed specifically with me in mind! I feel I am getting stronger and fitter every week. Allison has tremendous experience and knowledge and goes above and beyond to help you. Thank you Allison. Sep 21 

I joined Allison's 'Weighted Workout' class in January 2018 when it first started. I had been walking and gardening for exercise but was looking for something more structured and class-based. This weekly class is ideal for me mainly because Allison creates such a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere but focused at the same time. With her expert knowledge of physiology she is able to tell us exactly which muscle groups we are working on or stretching for each exercise. We start with warm-up exercises, move onto 'sets' using weights and finish with stretching exercises somewhat similar to Pilates. I'm well into my 60s but I find the way Allison runs the class makes no difference to age or ability and everyone feels included and able to go at their own pace. Allison is an excellent teacher and I would recommend her to anyone.Sep 21 

I joined Allison's Pilates class online about 9 months ago and have really enjoyed it.  I have benefitted from feeling more flexible and during Covid lockdowns it has boosted my mood and sense of achievement.  I would recommend Allison's classes.  Diana

“I have participated in Allison’s Pilates classes for almost 2 years now.

I have greatly benefited from the sessions and my flexibility has certainly increased.

I am in the older age bracket and would certainly advise anyone similar to give it a go.

Allison is a patient teacher and her instructions are clear and easy to follow” Ian Sep 21 

“I started Pilates with my daughter as part of her Duke of Edinburgh award scheme (she needed to start a new sport). We started with one hour per week, and did this for a couple of years. She really enjoyed Pilates as it was so different to the sports she did at school. 

During lockdown, I started to attend 3 Zoom lessons a week. My body started to change quite dramatically, relatively  quickly. Moves I had struggled with before became easy & I enjoyed the new flexibility.  I would highly recommend Alli’s classes to both beginners & more experienced Pilates fans. Her instructions are really clear & the lessons are easy to follow.

She has a good timetable of lessons & I always find a time I can attend.

I look forward to continuing with Pilates & maintaining the changes I have made.

Thanks Alli” Sep 21 

Amanda - Caterham 

I cannot recommend your Pilates classes highly enough.  I especially enjoy the work we do with resistance bands which is almost as challenging as working with weights.  I am so pleased that we've been able to continue classes on Zoom and know that they have been beneficial to me. If anyone is considering joining one of your groups they shouldn't hesitate.  You have illustrated that all exercises can be adapted to any level of ability, whether experienced, a complete beginner or someone with a disability or wishing to build-up their strength following, perhaps, illness or injury. Keep it up!
A happy 70 year old

Linda - Caterham

I have been doing Allison's Pilates classes for many years and she's great.   Allison makes classes enjoyable and fun,  even when we have been doing classes on Zoom.  I so recommend you join us! Long may she continue.   December 2020 

Dorothy - Old Coulsdon 

Zoom …… And we’re off. Allison’s exercise classes quickly moved up several gears from a standing start in March. We rapidly came to terms with the new “normal” and her classes lost nothing by going on-line – the expertise and the fun are still there. 

I was apprehensive when the pandemic caused Allison to swiftly move her very popular exercise classes online. However, Zoom classes have been a revelation. We can precisely see the exercise as Allison talks us through.  It’s also a great joy to be able to see and hear fellow participants (including the occasional cat/dog).

Amazingly Allison has been able to maintain her personal contact via Zoom. Group classes almost feel like one to one as she can see and adjust everyone individually where necessary. Very enjoyable sessions.

If you have not tried an on-line class before, this is a great way to start. 

Allison is very encouraging and happy to talk you though your Zoom set up. Classes are accessible to mixed ability participants as the exercises can be adapted accordingly. Allison always motivates us to be the best we can.

Congratulations Allison.

I cannot recommend your Zoom classes highly enough. 

Charlotte - Caterham 

Zoom Pilates has been wonderful, a great way to keep fit and keep in touch .  Many thanks to you and Zoom

Suzi - Whyteleafe 

Loved the weights class today,  feel taller,  fitter and toned.  What a great compliment to the Pilates schedule. 

Jane - Old Coulsdon 

I’ve really enjoyed the on-line classes.  It’s been easy to login and good to know that Allison can see us and correct any faults.  It’s easier too to see Allison’s demonstrations.
I like the convenience of being in my own home.
Jane’ 

Sue - Caterham 

Love the virtual classes,   working from home I am sitting too long and the Pilates helps me feel better than I could have imagined.  I love the interaction with Allison and the class.   I am looking forward to going back to business travel and not having to miss a class ever again!  

Thank you 

Tim - Reigate 

My Pilates experience!  Having never done Pilates before I did not know what to expect.  I found your approach very warm and welcoming,  which enabled me to feel both at ease as a novice and comfortable in the environment.   The exercises and stretches themselves were brilliant,   with suitable modifications offered to less-flexible individuals like me.     On the whole a very enjoyable introduction to Pilates.   I would not hesitate to recommend your classes to family,  friends and clients a like.    Dec 19 

Andy - Caterham  

I had a number of people recommending that I started doing Pilates but I was initially hesitant, feeling unsure as to how I would get on with classes.  That was over two years ago and I now go to Allison’s classes every week.  The classes are really friendly and Allison is brilliant at helping people with a wide range of abilities without disrupting the flow of the class.  While I know that I feel better I was delighted when my Osteopath confirmed that I had gained real benefits from Allison’s Pilates classes.  Jan 2019

Pilates Student 

If you are thinking of taking up Pilates, I highly recommend joining one of Allison’s ‘Fit & Fabulous’ classes.

Last year I was struggling with a knee problem and balance issues. When I had to descend stairs a step at a time and was getting very wobbly, I researched and discovered one of Allison’s local classes.

Not having exercised much for a long time apart from dog walking, I didn’t quite know what to expect, but I needn’t have worried. The class sizes are comfortable and friendly so not at all intimidating. If you advise Alison of any particular difficulties or health issues you may have, she is mindful of this during classes.

Allison is a highly qualified and a consummate professional. I admire how she manages to keep a watch on every student whilst demonstrating the exercises herself and giving verbal instruction, but also discretely assisting participants individually to ensure that exercises are performed correctly to achieve maximum effectiveness and avoiding possible injury. 

Apart from my initial reasons for taking up the class, with a diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis 6 years ago, I aim to stay physically mobile for as long as possible.  I’m by no means advocating Allison’s Pilates classes as some kind of miracle cure, but the gentle stretching and strengthening exercises have definitely helped me. 

This was last September and am thrilled that after just a few weeks I noticed a difference and now after 5 months I have no problem with my knees at all, so a very big THANK YOU to Allison. So pleased to have found and joined ‘Fit & Fabulous’!   Jan 2019

Wendy - Old Coulsdon - I just had to let you know how I felt after my first Pilates class with you on Wednesday.  I thought I'd give it a try because I was beginning to get stiff joints lately but about 3 months ago I tried Yoga and injured my shoulder and it was painful to lay on and what was amazing, after my first class with yourself,  I was able to sleep on my side again and can move my shoulder practically the same as the other one on the same day unbelievable !!!  So I'm one very happy lady.   Thank you so much Alison see you next week.  August 2017

Claudine - Coulsdon,   I have been attending Allison's classes for many years,   I could not do without my weekly sessions which keep me well balanced and strong.  I certainly do not feel my age,  and I am sure this is partly due to Allison's rigorous regime (not always easy but never crippling!) I suffer from arthritis which is made bearable by the strengthening of muscles and good posture.  Give it a go.  April 2017  ​

Chris Sanderstead - Allison is a very capable personal trainer.  She has more of a real world view about people and lifestyles than most PT's I have met and under her tuition, I have lost 3 stone in weight and things are continuing to move in a better direction.   Over that time I have seen my breathing and fitness improve whilst also feeling like I have a lot more energy. If you are in the market for a personal trainer in the Caterham / Croydon area then it would be worth your while getting in touch with her.  March 2016  ​

Sally - Purley - I started Allison's Pilates classes on recommendation after I was beginning to have some back ache.  A year on the niggles have gone and I feel my posture is better.  I now follow on and join in Allison's body conditioning class,  a great two hours of effective exercise.  March 2016  
 

Andrea - Coulsdon - I have attended many fitness classes over 40 years and this is by far the best.  Allison tailors every exercise to suit personal ability,  so every week you can progress if you wish to harder exercises.  Backache is a thing of the past.    Thank you Allison.  March 2016

Carolyn - Coulsdon - I have been attending Allison's class for about two years now. I was a total beginner and did not know what to expect.  Allison is an excellent tutor who inspires confidence and injects a sense of fun in to the activity.  I have been surprised and delighted to discover that I no longer experience some of the aches and pains in my knees and hips that have come with age,  as well as recovering flexibility.  I look forward to each session and would loath to give up these classes.  March 2016

Penny - Coulsdon - I have rheumatoid Arthritis and after two hip operations and a back operations,  attending Allison's Pilates classes has really improved my mobility as well as giving me a feeling of well being.   February 2016  

Joan - Whyteleafe - I am a very active 74 year old grandmother.  I have been doing Pilates for the last 20 years in addition to my gym work.  This is to ensure my core remains strong and flexible and my posture is excellent.  The inability to move well is ageing and due to Pilates I still have a younger more youthful appearance that in turn increases my self confidence.   The Fit and Fabulous classes are a joy to attend and work around the busy schedule of a retired lady in Caterham.   I highly recommend them to everyone. January 2016  

​Linda - Coulsdon - I started Pilates classes with Allison over 4 years ago, and I feel everybody should try Pilates. It keeps you fit and toned and supple and Alison is a great teacher and makes the sessions fun and really enjoyable.  January 2016

Jackie - Coulsdon - I have attended Allison’s Pilates and Total Body Tone sessions for a long time and I feel I benefit greatly from both.  Allison is always professional but also very friendly and approachable.  She is aware of what I am capable of accomplishing and encourages me to push myself though always in a safe and enjoyable way.   I also like that Allison explains the theory behind what she teaches to enable her students to understand their bodies and how to progress their fitness and flexibility levels.   January 2016

Suzi - Caterham - I take part in the Fit and Fabulous Pilates session on a Monday night at the Whyteleafe location.   I have a busy life style with long work days,  lots of travel and carrying heavy bags.  The Pilates gives me a chance to stretch out,   strengthen my back and I feel taller after every class.  The start time is perfect for me as it connects with the train from London that arrives at Upper Warlingham so I can take part on the way home from work,  so do not have to go home and go out again,  which on dark nights, did not often happen.     December 2016