Abstract

It's a breezy day in Horse Chestnut Town. Join in with Connor the Conker as he has fun in the wind and tests out his balancing, rolling, stretching and swimming skills.

This fun adventure story and activity book provides a safe and effective way of teaching Pilates to children aged 4-7. Pilates has numerous benefits and can teach children to become more aware of their bodies and their posture, and boost confidence and self-esteem. Beginning with an illustrated story, this book includes step-by-step instructions for child-friendly Pilates exercises. Parents, teachers and other professionals working with children can also join in the fun!

I'm a yoga teacher rather than a teacher of pilates about which I know comparatively little. I do know however, that story is a fantastic medium for working with young children and that the author Rachel Lloyd has a dance background and is a Pilates Master Trainer who is clearly passionate about its practice. Her positivity and what she says in the helpful notes at the back resonate with me completely.
Jill R. Bennett
Red Reading Hub, Jillrbennet's Reviews of Children's Books
This book is a unique and extremely well-constructed format for introducing children to the benefits of Pilates in a manner that is stimulating - the way in which Rachel has introduced Connor the Conker as a character to bring the exercises and journey alive is both enjoyable and motivating for children. I will be recommending this book to my patients' children, as a way to prevent postural anomalies, improve overall strength, balance, co-ordination and flexibility, and to introduce children to the emotional and health benefits of exercise through the format of play.
From the afterword by Alan Watson MCSP. HPC, Director of Bimal Medical & Sports Rehabilitation Clinic

Life has never been dull since meeting Rachel, as a person her enthusiasm for life is infectious, as an instructor her ability to inspire is second to none and as the creator of our little friend Connor she enthrals us with a wealth of wonderful stories.
Our children are our greatest gift, and our greatest gift back to our children is the gift of health. By following Connor through his very busy day going to school, playing with his friends and exploring his forest - our children will have a fun filled activity session that will also stimulate the mind.
Rachel's years of dance, teaching and creative work have lead us to this wonderful character - follow Connor and conquer your inactivity!
Rachel and Connor are truly an inspiration to our next generation.

Joyce Gavin, International Pilates Master Trainer & Examiner
Rachel Lloyd began her career as a professional dancer/choreographer and taught children and adults dance. When Rachel discovered the benefits of Pilates, she fell in love with the practice, and eventually became a Master Trainer and then an Examiner. After working with fellow Master Trainer, Joyce Gavin, in America and Dublin on the Core Pilot Reformer, Rachel was asked to write a story to help engage children with Pilates. This was how Connor the Conker was born. Rachel lives in Oxfordshire, UK.