YOGA expert and trained Les Mills instructor and sports therapist Roger Hooton has brought all his knowledge to Meridian Leisure Centre, with new classes for all stages and levels of fitness.
From Yoga – Roger is an experienced instructor who visits India annually for International training – to the very best Les Mills’ Body Pump classes, he has a growing army of fans at the centre.
He prides himself on taking time with individuals, often on a one-to-one basis, ensuring the right techniques are in place before classes begin
“This allows me to be confident that all those taking part are getting the very best from every class. Take the Les Mills Body Pump as an example, some people may tend to think this is all about pushing more weights but that is not the case. Instead it is about the right technique – timing and safety is everything to ensure an effective workout,” explained Roger.
His Les Mills’ classes are held at Meridian every Wednesday from 6pm until 7pm, however he carries out a pre-class ‘techniques’ class from 5.30pm that he invites new or existing Body Pump clients along to.
Roger started his fitness journey as a karate expert – at 16 he took up Wado Ryu Karate, passing his 1st Dan Black belt three years later, before becoming an instructor and studying the Shotokan style.
After teaching and instructing in Thailand, Australia, India and Japan, he returned to the UK with a passion for Yoga developing. Roger is also a trained Pilates instructor – and uses some of those techniques in his bespoke and innovate Yoga classes. A trained sports therapist, he has taught Body Pump, Body Combat, spinning and aerobics since the early 1990s and into the 2000s and his vast knowledge of treatment methods sees an increasing number of clients wanting massage and injury treatments.
His Wednesday evening class, at 7.15pm concentrates on Restorative Yoga – which allows for less movements held for longer aiding relaxation. However, his Thursday class, from 7.30pm until 8pm is different altogether – the Vinyasa Yoga class uses power to create a physical workout.
“There is flexibility, strength and balance in everything we do. You know, you often hear people say they are ‘not flexible enough for Yoga’, but that is never the case – everyone can enjoy the benefits it brings, and it can help so many people,” he added.
Booking for Roger’s classes is advisable. Call the centre on 01507 607650 or members can book online.