Many Young people are struggling emotionally, physically and mentally everyday because of abuse, drugs, and violence at home. The lockdown for many of these youngsters means complete turmoil with family breakdowns or even that the violence at home is intensifying. For a lot of them, they also don't know where their next meal is going to come from as a result of poverty or neglect.

This is when Carney's Community, a boxing club located in Battersea comes in!

They're responding to this crisis by redesigning their services to continue doing what they do, even while their centre stays closed. They are:

Staying in close contact with the most vulnerable young people, giving them a safe space to talk and responding to their changing needs;

Running boxing training through Instagram and setting up weekly challenges;

Maintaining vital social contact through weekly group sessions (quizzes, tournaments, youth club) online;

For the most vulnerable, doing one-to-one training and mentoring, either online, or in a local park, maintaining safe distance;

Arranging deliveries of food and other basic essentials where needed;

Providing tips and ideas for good physical and mental health whilst at home.

They are working to engage young people in positive and constructive activities. They know that exercise produces feel good hormones, which are a good alternative to illegal drugs and reduce aggression. They're supporting young people’s mental health during lockdown, helping to reduce stress and providing an outlet for frustration and worry. They also provide a continued sense of belonging to a safe community.

The centre has already lost 100% of certain funding streams and many planned fundraising events have been cancelled for the coming months. They rely on these funds to keep providing the support so badly needed in our community.

Through doing Pilates together, we can make a difference.

We are also honouring the spirit of Joe Pilates who was a professional boxer by fundraising for this vital local community charity.

Here are the classes and suggested donations:

Mondays 8-9 pm 'Go the Distance' Strength & Mobility £9

Wednesdays 7.30-8.15 am 'The Knockout Punch' Strength £7

Fridays 7.30-8.00 am 'Flex the Warrior Inside' Stretch & Mobilise £5

These classes are aimed at a group where the participants ability vary. You can be a beginner or an advanced student. Modifications are provided.

I will offer tips as we go but this workout is NOT recommended for you if you have injuries or issues that need a teacher's individual attention.

We will be using anything we have at home to replace our usual equipment. 2 xTins (for example: beans or tomatoes... ,400g each), a paper plate, a hand towel, loo roll, a chair...You don't need to use any equipment if you don't want to/have it. (Apart from a Chair when we do a Barre Session. )

I'll let you know at the start of each class which type of equipment we'll be needing.

Classes are held on Webex and you'll need the link below to access my Pilates Room:

https://lindsit.my.webex.com/meet/reclaimbody

You need to download the Webex Programme to access the class live: https://www.webex.com/downloads.

If you don't want to take part in a live class, don't worry, I'll record the sessions so you can do it in your own time. Just get in touch via email so that I can send the recording to you: lindsit@hotmail.com

And if like me, you're feeling a little apprehensive about having your children possibly floating in and out of the background, let's not, my children will be too. We're all in the same boat! :)

To find out more about me, check out my website: www.reclaimbodypilates.com 

Please ensure you've read the online disclaimer (below ) before taking part. Thank you.

I'm really looking forward to see you online!

Keep calm and do Pilates during Corona.

Love,

Linda xx

ONLINE DISCLAIMER:

''Please take note of the following precautions before participating in the class to help you exercise safely.

To reduce and avoid injury or you feeling unwell, if you have any pre-existing conditions or illnesses that you are concerned about, you will need to check with your Doctor or Healthcare Provider for appropriate exercise prescription and safety, before taking part in classes.

By participating in the classes, you are doing so at your own risk.

Reclaimbody Pilates will not be responsible or liable for any injury or harm you suffer as a result of her Pilates Programmes.

If at any point during the class, you begin to feel faint, dizzy or have any physical discomfort, you should stop immediately and seek medical advice.

Please use good judgement and common sense when taking part, consider your level and ability, choose the appropriate level of the exercises and rest when you need to. Adapt and modify when necessary to suit your own needs. Also make sure that you have adequate space around you to move freely and comfortably.''

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