What is the course about?
The course explores some of the fundamental movement patterns involved in the use of your hips and back. You will begin to recognise your own particular habits and begin to find new possibilities that can create better balance, less unnecessary strain and more ease in movement, enhancing your body's natural functioning in sport, dance, music and everyday life.
What will we cover?
We will explore the relationship of the legs and back and the junction through which they meet - ie the hip joints. We will see how affects and informs basic functions such as walking, sitting and standing and may also relate to other activities in life, sport and performance.
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
- Recognise your own movement and behaviour patterns and possibilities
- Identify new processes which reduce unnecessary effort
- Practise a series of small movements leading to increased efficiency in larger movements.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
No previous knowledge or experience is needed. Everyone is welcome, although you should be able to get down to the floor and up again. If you have a disability please contact the office in advance. You are required to read sentences, follow verbal instructions and extract information from handouts.
If you have suffered from any of the conditions listed below, please check with a medical practitioner whether it is suitable for you to undertake an exercise programme and bring a referral letter from your doctor to your tutor. If you have not checked, or if it is not suitable, please do not participate in an exercise or movement class.
- Do you ever have pains in your chest?
- Have you had any operations or injuries in the last year?
- Do you often feel faint or have spells of dizziness?
- Are you receiving medication for any condition?
- Do you have high blood pressure?
- Is there anything else we should know about your health?
- Do you have a bone or joint problem, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, back or knee problems?
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course is experiential and is verbally led. The tutor will guide you through a series of slow, small movements, asking you to pay attention to your sensations. The movements are explored by students at their own pace. Many of the exercises will be done lying on the floor. There may be some partner work.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Please wear comfortable, loose clothing. The classes are not strenuous so you need to be sure you will be warm enough.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
The Feldenkrais Method may be used to improve performance in activities such as dance, drama, sport, work and life in general.
