Leslie Hamp: Pilates & Kettlebells
Leslie Hamp, health and lifestyle coach, discovered Pilates in 1998 and was immediately hooked on the deep breathing, flowing movement, precision, control and concentration utilized in each Pilates workout. When her former aerobics students heard she was mastering the technique, they begged her to teach them as well. She went on for training at the Sweatshop in St. Paul, was certified in Stott Pilates in 2003, and has been teaching small group mat classes plus one-on-one Reformer sessions ever since. Leslie enjoys watching women and men of all ages and abilities experience the benefits of this total mind-body workout that builds core strength and increases flexibility, balance, stamina, coordination and strength.
In 2007 Leslie completed a 3-day training in kettlebells, also at the Sweatshop. The kettlebell is a cast iron weight that looks like a cannonball with a handle. As you hold the handle and swing the bell, the shifting center of gravity results in dynamic moves that build functional fitness by mimicking movements in everyday life such as picking up a bag of groceries, carrying a suitcase or lifting a child. In minimal time, participants learn how to swing their bells as they increase strength, agility, balance, flexibility and cardiovascular endurance.
Leslie is also a certified journaling instructor helping others discover the power of personal writing to enhance whole well-being — body, mind and spirit. Find out more at www.lesliehamp.com.