Yogalates^TM is a dynamic and thoroughly original method of Yoga & Pilates instruction. The method is the result of 16 years of research, development and practical application by its founder Louise Solomon and is protected by Trade Mark and Copyright Law. Since its inception 6 years ago, the course has continued to develop and grow in direct response to the feedback of its previous graduates and the ongoing research of Louise and the Academy’s personnel. Graduates of the Yogalates^TM Method benefit from a truly unique qualification in a highly competitive market saturated with Yoga and Pilates style courses. The training program utilises the latest scientific research into mind, body and breath and strives to achieve a balance between scientific study and practical application whilst preserving the unique philosophies and integrity of Yoga and Pilates.

The aim of the course is to produce competent and highly skilled teachers of the Yogalates^TM Method. Graduates will develop greater self-understanding, and more specifically in depth understanding of the way the human body functions in movement. This will enable you to instruct others with confidence and sensitivity. The course is designed in such a way that you will gain all the skills needed to plan and conduct a Yogalates^TM class. You will learn how to cater for the individual needs of your students and more importantly, when working with those whom may have pre-existing injuries, when to refer them on. Yogalates is also recognised by major health funds.

The Yogalates™ Teachers’ Association runs an annual update workshop to association members that are registered/certified teachers to ensure the highest standard of professionalism in teaching the Solomon Yogalates™ Method sought by this Academy is maintained.

‘It (Yogalates™) embraces biomechanical science, supports individual variance and benefits physical health and spiritual well-being…’

WHERE EAST MEETS WEST- ORIGINS
'Yoga is a practical method for making one's life purposeful, useful and noble' Patanjali

Solomon Yogalates^TM is an internationally acclaimed exercise system fusing the best of ancient yogic spiritual practice with the core stabilizing, functional, and regenerative dynamics of Pilates. Yoga dates back to around 3000BC and aims to create union between the body and mind, improving overall wellbeing. It enhances strength, stamina, aerobic capacity, flexibility, balance and mental clarity. Yoga has a deep profound history of bestowing emotional well-being, focusing the mind on the movement in a very meditative way. For this reason it can be a strong spiritual practice for some.

Pilates, founded by Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s, is a system of muscular skeletal exercises and is the culmination of years of human endeavour to perfect body development & physical training. These exercises demonstrate how the body works in functional movement through isolating specific muscle groups, in particular the postural muscles. Both Pilates and Yoga share similar postures, Pilates however, emphasizes the importance of utilizing the stabilizing muscles of the body while in movement to create a very safe and strong foundation to exert movement.

Solomon Yogalates^TM is a complete and comprehensive fusion of Yoga and Pilates. It is an ever evolving method at the cutting edge of the latest medical and scientific research into how the human body functions during movement, combining theoretical knowledge and practice. Key to the Yogalates^TM method is the wholistic integration of the very best of two historically and widely acclaimed exercise systems. It is a movement system that stretches and strengthens all the major muscle groups developing a streamlined slenderness rather than bulk. At the same time it has excellent therapeutic value for calming the mind and spirit.

During a session particular attention is paid to building strength and endurance in the body’s core postural muscles (the stabilizers). This promotes “core stability” which enhances spinal/pelvic awareness protecting the spine against injury whilst supporting the internal organs and promoting good posture. Resistance bands are also used in Yogalates to replicate the resistance training of the Pilates machines, excellent for strengthening, lengthening and balancing the musculature of the body, helping to bring about balance in the whole being.

Much more than a movement system, Yogalates places emphasis on the breath throughout a session. The Pilates thoracic (chest) breathing is incorporated to help increase lung capacity and enhance stamina and endurance. This breath activates the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles helping to protect and strengthen the lower back, tone the belly, trim the waist and assist with core stability. Different Pranayama, Yogic breathing techniques are also used, some to energize and invigorate others to calm and soothe the nervous system aiding relaxation and the release of stress and tension.

Yogalates is a safe practice which promotes unity of the body and mind, freeing up energy to flow unhindered through your entire being. It is ideal for those needing to strengthen their backs, those suffering from arthritis or osteoporosis, and post natal women. It is excellent for developing general tone and fitness in the body while creating a sense of inner calm, relaxation and overall wellbeing.