Alison loved dance and gymnastics as a child but it never occurred to her to see them as a valid career. She pursued legal training, but quickly realised it wasn’t “her” and began contemporary dance training at The Laban Centre. Their in-house Pilates classes delivered many benefits to the dancers and Alison embarked on Alan Herdmans Teacher Training course, qualifying in 2000. He put particular emphasis on the rehabilitative nature of pilates practice. Alison worked for Alan directly and has since taught a huge variety of people in equipment studios and mat classes all over London including dancers, circus artists, young footballers and people recovering from strokes or with higher support needs (with Leyton Orient Trust).

Alison is continually training and learning. She teaches pre- and post-natal exercise, osteoporosis and hypermobility as well as more “niche” techniques like myofascial release and complementary disciplines Feldenkrais and yoga. Alison is also qualified to teach kettlebells and gyrotonic and this year will complete the Pink Ribbon (breast cancer) course, and a certication to train clients with neurological issues such as MS. 

She loves requests like: being able to reach for the top cupboard, climb over styles or even to be able to lie comfortably in bed. She wants everyone to achieve their goals, whatever their age, background or level of fitness and believes Pilates can help with this journey. Alison herself still trains and performs in both dance and aerial circus. She swims and snowboard and finds Pilates helps with each of these; to perform better and deal with the inevitable injuries. She wants to stay fit and strong for as long as possible, helping clients at every stage of their lives too!