Helen Ball
I am a professionally trained dancer and aerialist. After graduating from the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, I moved to London to pursue a career in aerial acrobatics. In 2001 I was selected to work for world-renowned Cirque Du Soleil, and I toured with them for 10 years, living and working all around the world. It was during this time that Pilates became an essential part of maintaining my physically demanding routine. After retiring from performing I completed my Stott Pilates qualifications and began my career in teaching.
In 2014 I suffered a rare allergic reaction which resulted in heart failure. The lifesaving open heart surgery I received left me with major chest injuries. However, during my recovery and rehab I was able to use my years of training and my Pilates knowledge to stay positive and rebuild my body.
After my recovery, while teaching Pilates in Australia, I joined a workshop where I was introduced to The Classical Pilates Method. It was an amazing and eye-opening experience which led me to embark on my Classical journey.
On returning to the U.K I trained at The Classical Pilates Centre with Second Generation teacher Kirk Smith. Since then I have taken many classes and workshops in Europe and the U.K with world-renowned teachers.
During my Pilates career so far I have worked with a broad range of clients. For the past year I have enjoyed travelling with Cirque Du Soleil once again, this time teaching Pilates to the acrobats.
My experience as a professional aerialist, along with my own rehabilitation journey and keen interest in physiology influence my approach to Pilates. Pilates is my great passion and I feel very fortunate to have found it. I am always striving to delve deeper into the work and continue to learn with each new client. My goal is to help people get the most out of their body, whether they are training as an athlete or simply wishing to improve their overall physical wellbeing.
Qualifications
Comprehensive Classical Training with Kirk Smith, The Classical Pilates Centre (2018)
Intensive Cadillac, Chair, Barrels. Stott Pilates, London (March 2017)
Injuries and Special Populations. Stott Pilates, London (March 2015)
Intensive Reformer Level 1. Stott Pilates, London (October 2013)
Barre Instructor Foundation Course. Stott Pilates, London (August 2013)
Advanced Matwork level 2. Stott Pilates, London (July 2012)
Intensive Matwork Level 1. Stott Pilates, London (January 2012)
Certificate in Advanced Personal Training, Level 3. Premier International, Liverpool
Diploma in Circus skills. National Circus School, London (1999)
B.A (Hons) Dance. Northern School of Contemporary Dance, Leeds (1995-99)
Workshops/Courses
Jean-Claude Nelson, Miguel Silver, Kirk James Smith, Alexandra Bohlinger.
Classical Pilates Conference, Lancaster (2018)