The one-on-one sessions gave me time to get used to getting on the Oov (not at all graceful and likely hilarious to bystanders!) and enabled Lynsey to talk me through the various moves I could expect to do in the class.
Once I'd managed to get on the Oov, Lynsey showed me how to centre myself with feet placed on a low step and my arms straight up in the air. From there I completed a series of coordinated movements that ensured my core muscles were working to keep me balanced on the Oov. The best way to describe how the Oov works is that you can do the exercises lying on the floor but by using the Oov your core area is off the ground and must engage to keep you balanced on the Oov as you work through the range of motions.
I found the hardest moves were the ones where I was leaning my arm and leg on the same side of my body right over - trying not to fall off the Oov was a mammoth task but definitely achievable.
The first session was great for simply getting used to the Oov and learning the moves.
The second session kicked it up a notch and Lynsey introduced some leg movements that really got my core working.
While I could feel the muscles working hard as I tapped my toes and extended my legs, I could really feel how hard I'd worked when I got off the Oov. (Getting off is considerably easier than getting on albeit just as inelegant as you roll off the side and right yourself!)
My core muscles felt stronger and my posture was definitely improved.
The stiffness in my neck and shoulders had also lessened. My core muscles never felt sore so sitting down and getting up wasn't a problem - it was more of an awareness that the core was strengthening and the muscles doing what they are supposed to do.
Next time I tried an Oov class (check the class timetable here: advancephysio.co.nz/classes.html ). Led by physiotherapist Stephen Derrick, the 45-minute class was the ideal lunchbreak exercise ... no major sweating but I felt like I'd really had a work out.
There were several people there who'd obviously attended before, but never fear newbies - the instructor will help direct you whenever you need assistance. And if you need a breather during any of the more intense parts, you just take a break and work at your own pace.
Advance also offers 30-minute Oov Coreblast classes. The name says it all really - it's Oov on steroids.
I reckon now I can get on the Oov (that's a good start right there huh!) I'll give that a go too. No more flailing turtle poses for me!
Advance Wellness Centre is at 711 Victoria Street. For more information about the services they offer see www.advancephysio.co.nz
