Contacts Pilates There is no governing body for Pilates that is recognised by Sport England. The Pilates Foundation UK is a useful website for information and training courses. www.pilatesfoundation.com HOW TO RUN TAI CHI, Tai chi There is no governing body for tai chi that is recognised by Sport England. YOGA AND PILATES The Tai Chi Union website helps identify local instructors. ACTIVITIES www.taichiunion.com Yoga The British Wheel of Yoga is recognised by Sport England as a governing body. www.bwy.org.uk

For further information in your local area Age UK Northallerton - Tel: 01609 771624 Hambleton District Council – Tel: 01609 767149

Age UK North Yorkshire is a Registered Charity (number 1124567) and Company Limited by Guarantee (number 6456185). Registered Office: 9 North Park Road, Harrogate, HG1 5PD. 04/14 Brief details of the activity Tai chi, yoga and Pilates are mind and body disciplines from varied What equipment is needed? origins, designed to build strength, balance, flexibility and agility, while achieving physical and mental relaxation. These types of Participants ideally need a no-slip floor mat, which can be purchased activities have been very popular within the Fit as a Fiddle relatively inexpensively. programme as they allow physical activity in a peaceful and calm Other than a mat, participants just need loose, comfortable clothing environment. that allows for movement within the session. What are the benefits?

Tai chi, yoga and Pilates are different styles of physical activity, and Are there volunteer opportunities? suit different abilities. The benefits of these activities may include improved circulation, co-ordination, strength and balance; toned core Volunteers can help: muscles; lower blood pressure; and bring inner peace and calm.  Do any administration related to the class Are there professional requirements?  Collect money at the beginning of the class and take registration  Tai chi, yoga and Pilates all require professional tutors to lead sessions  Welcome new participants to the sessions  There are identified lead bodies representing the three disciplines, although only yoga has a governing body recognised  Help publicise the sessions by delivering leaflets by Sport England

 Contact the relevant representing body or governing body listed What are the potential costs? overleaf to identify appropriate professional requirements and tutors in your area  Venue hire – costs vary but it is estimated at about £15 per hour

Are there environmental / space requirements?  Instructor costs – costs also vary but are approximately £25 per  Tai chi, yoga and Pilates activities can be adapted to their hour environment. However, a warm, spacious community hall or  Refreshments, if incorporated in the session school hall would be fine. The movements within the activities are not necessarily rapid but space for each movement to take place  Publicity materials is essential A charge to cover these costs is recommended to make the sessions  Some of these activities have taken place out doors in the fresh sustainable. air, on the beach, in gardens or in a local park to great effect.