About - Custom Pilates | Pilates in North Norfolk

Each class incorporates the original Pilates movements, combining strength and mobility in a flowing, mindful sequence. Close attention to detail is encouraged to ensure a controlled and precise workout, allowing the mind to reconnect with the body. By the end of each session, you will feel stronger, taller, more connected, and balanced.

I have over 20 years’ experience teaching Pilates. My training was originally inspired by Alan Herdman, followed by completing the Pilates Matwork Diploma with Michael King (Pilates Institute / MK Pilates). I have attended numerous conventions and workshops over the years and continue to develop my knowledge in line with an ever-evolving industry and ongoing research.

My career in the health and fitness industry began as a Fitness Manager for a number of clubs, including the Champneys group. I later moved to Portugal, where I set up and managed a fitness centre at a luxury resort in the Algarve. I now run my own Pilates matwork business in North Norfolk, offering classes grounded in traditional principles with a contemporary, thoughtful approach.

With an old back injury exacerbated by old age and the medics saying that physio wouldn’t do any good where do you go next? So I Googled Pilates near me and discovered Joanna Norton. She agreed to give me some one-one lessons coming to my home. What a wonderful “find”. Already I can feel improved movement and posture and it gets better every time. She is so knowledgeable, thorough, patient and such a lovely person. I wholeheartedly recommend her to you. During the present lockdown our one-hour weekly session is continuing through Skype.

Paddy Seligman
Although I am in a wheelchair, I love the fact that I can do all the exercises. Even though my left foot is not as good as my right. I find that Jo makes the time very relaxing.

Sue Fox
As a cyclist Pilates has helped me to alleviate tight hip flexors, hunched shoulders and tight pectorals. Optimising my alignment to allow my body to return to a better a posture after many miles of cycling. Highly recommend these classes. Mike

Mike
I have been regularly attending Jo's pilates classes for over three years now. Initially this was to help recover from sciatica and tenderness around the sacroiliac joint caused by a small disc prolapse. Jo's structured full-body sessions resolved this pain within a couple of months. Since then, her classes have helped me to build up my strength and stability so I can achieve my fitness goals, including a half marathon run and a 5km swim. I am currently training for a triathlon and Jo's classes are an integral part of my weekly regime. I always finish her class feeling taller, stronger, and with a smile on my face!

Kezia
I have been practising pilates with Jo for over a year, first at Aylsham Community Gym and for the past 12 months, online. Jo’s classes are brilliant! She describes the positions and the moves really clearly and the exercises are well-paced but at the same time, calming. She also suggests different levels of difficulty for each exercise so students can take it at a pace that suits them. I now feel stronger and more body-aware.

Ellie, Aylsham

Ellie
I started doing Pilates with Jo when I first moved to Norfolk 6 years ago and have done it regularly ever since, including the recent online classes. It really has been a lifeline, providing relief from lower back problems, a boost to general wellbeing and a way to make new friends. Jo is a skilled and knowledgeable instructor and is very empathetic to the needs of individual clients. I highly recommend Jo’s classes. Dr Katy Rice

Dr Katy Rice
"I remember my reaction after the first pilates class I did with Jo - it was amazing! That was before lockdown and the sessions online have been excellent as well”. Paul

Paul
I have been attending Jo’s classes for fours year now. She is very approachable and knowledgable and gives you a fantastic work out every time! Whether you are a beginner or more experienced I would highly recommend Jo and her classes to everyone who is considering a Pilates class.

Janella
I have been to various Pilates classes over the years, and Jo is the best teacher I've had, without a doubt. Her instructions are very detailed and clear, with an explanation of what the work is achieving, often offering various options depending on what level you want to work at.. The class has a relaxed, pleasant atmosphere (low-key nice music!) while demanding focus and effort at the same time. It actually gives me the feeling that I have achieved something physically after 50 minutes. I fully recommend!

Lilie Ferrari
I've been attending Jo's classes for over a year now and really look forward to both sessions that I attend each week. No two classes are quite the same but always beneficial in alleviating my hip joint pain and improving all round strength, mobility and posture.

Bill Sherwood
Bryan and I have greatly benefited from your Pilates lessons, physically and emotionally. Your professional instruction guides us through a variety of stretches, clearly explaining what each stretch does and how it benefits the body.

Thank you very much....

Gill and Bryan