Opposition in Pilates and Yoga

Opposition in Pilates and Yoga has been designed to de-mystify the techniques of Pilates and Yoga by blending Newton's Third Law and Mindfulness. By understanding how these two concepts work together in movement, anyone can feel the benefit of these practices. Developed from 15 years of working with people in both disciplines and appreciating that we are not all the same, the concept of opposition is the simplest way to help you feel your body in the way that you are supposed to - not the way anybody else does! In this way you get maximum benefits in the shortest time. Through educating, understanding, rehabilitating and communicating Marie-Claire aims to have everyone getting the most out of their Pilates and Yoga classes.

Marie-Claire has worked in the fitness industry since 1998 in a number of different disciplines. She has owned her own studio and works alongside Fitness Inspired Teacher Training (Fitt) to bring high quality teacher training to the whole of the UK. Other work includes Associate Lecturer at University College Chichester on the Sports Biomechanics program and as a fitness presenter at conventions held around the UK. She travelled to the U.S. to train alongside those who were educated by Joseph Pilates and has specifically worked with individuals who had injuries, pre and post-surgery and illnesses such as cancer and multiple sclerosis. In 2014 an accident forced her to move away from teaching every day. Her new business The Movement Specialist is dedicated to supporting individuals wishing to advance their careers – either through targeting teacher training in centers, or offering business support and advice. Marie-Claire continues to work privately on a referral basis with people who would like to participate in generalized classes but feel that their physical restrictions are holding them back.

A fantastic book and ideal for anyone wanting something methodical, safe and effective to follow with full break-downs and build-ups of lots of the Pilates and Yoga fundamentals, this will be a great addition to the Fitt Pilates teacher training courses for students to continue their learning and development.

I am a complete beginner and have not done anything like this before. The book is so clear I can follow what to do . I love the clear photos and simple instructions and have already followed some of the workouts . A good book for beginners and professionals alike.

I attended a course with Marie-Claire 3 years ago and have since then have attended several more. She's exceptionally knowledgeable about the human body and it's always a pleasure learning more from her. I will now not attend any courses if they are not run by her. I have also just purchased her book and this book should be given to all Pilates and Yoga Teachers - it is honestly very well written and the explanations just make you go aaah now I understand!

This book is a clear and thoughtful introduction to the often confusing world of Pilates. It will become a set text for all trainee teachers as it clearly and methodically de-mystifies Pilates so anyone can understand its considerable benefits. I was lucky enough to be trained, mentored and employed by Marie-Claire and she has made me a successful and knowledgable Pilates teacher. Marie-Claire is an expert in the field of Pilates but she has something else to offer that many experts lack  - compassion and vision. A wonderful author!


A fantastic book for anybody (because any body is a Pilates body!) who wishes to understand functional movement. This book really breaks down how to perform Pilates and yoga series safely and effectively, unlike so many tutorials available online. I have had the benefit of being a student of Marie-Claire for some years now, and can genuinely recommend her methods. After a lifetime of ballet, distance running, and wearing stiletto heels, I genuinely feel the benefits that this kind of exercise brings. A busy lifestyle means that I can’t always get to class, and these exercises are so well broken down that I feel confident to do them at home. A genuinely helpful resource for Pilates and yoga students.