Fitness Table TCP Vancouver

So far, I've been strictly reviewing yoga studios on the Passport to Prana card, but today I feel the need to break the rules a bit. Last week, I tried a very unique class that was introduced to Vancouver by one of my good friends, Katharine Ford. The method is called the Fitness Table and the style originated from Quebec under founder Therese Cadrin-Petit (TCP) in the 1980's. Katharine's business has grown as people begin to learn about the awesome benefits this method has to offer. For more information, visit www.fitnesstable.com or fitnesstablevancouver.com.

What: Fitness Table TCP

Where: 2nd Floor, 302 West 2nd Ave, Vancouver BC

When: June 8, 2010, 8:30am-9:45am

Class: Fitness Table Level 1/1+

Teacher: Katharine

Drop-In price per class: $28

Comments:

Space:

The Fitness Table classes are held in a small dance studio in the Cambie/False Creek area of Vancouver. The space had nice hardwood floors, mirrors and a nice lounge/front desk area. In this practice, the mirrors are key to gaining an understanding of your posture and alignment. The studio could fit 10 tables comfortably, which is the limit for each class.

Atmosphere:

Because this isn't a yoga studio, creating a beautiful meditative atmosphere was not necessarilty the goal of the owner, but I will say that the place was very welcoming and had a vibe of being well used and well loved.

Teacher/Class:

Because this is the first studio to open in Vancouver, I am probably guessing that you have no idea what it's about. A lot can be said about the Fitness Table method, and although I am certainly no expert, I can give you the low-down on how the classes are run and what this "table" stuff is all about. First - the table. Each student gets a table (hence the need to call in and reserve your table before class). The tables are made of wood and are composed of trestles and a table top shaped like a squarish peanut. The nooks in the table allow you to grip the table with the feet, arms or hands. The table allows you to stretch one or several parts of the body and perform various flexions, extensions and rotations below its surface.

The beginner classes use the table laying flat on both trestles but in more advanced classes, the table can be used on a slant. The classes are 75 mins and typically start with a gentle warm up off the table. Props such as small and large balls and straps are used throughout the class. The table work is primarily focused on core strengthening and posture alignment. One thing to note is that in order to participate, you need to attend a one-on-one postural evaluation with Katharine, which costs $70. This is only the beginning of the individualized nature of this practice.

Katharine's teaching style is super hands on and she does a great job of getting you to engage the proper muscle groups. Her language is very technical, but it's not overwhelming and plus it's nice to know exactly what muscles you're using. Even as a yoga and fitness instructor, I learned a great deal about my alignment and muscular kinetics. It's similar to pilates in its focus on core strengthening through breath and movement, but the table enables you to have more stability and leverage.

Rating: 8.5/10. I really recommend this class to anyone with postural or back problems. The drop in fee can be a bit pricey (along with the manditory $70 postural evaluation), but Katharine's individualized feedback and attention is well worth the money. The classes cater to multiple levels so there is no real prerequisite, which is a bonus.