THE January meeting of Ingleborough WI started off the new year on a healthy note.

President Jennifer Charnley introduced Rebecca Humphries, who gave a very interesting introduction to Pilates.

It was created in the 1920s by a German, Joseph Pilates, who suffered debilitating childhood illnesses and was advised by his father to box and exercise.

Later, he moved to America and developed his technique by rehabilitating soldiers returning from war and dancers, to strengthen their bodies and heal injuries.

Pilates focuses on mind and body strength, core stability, flexibility, muscle control and posture. Rebecca interspersed her talk with some chair exercises for members, to test their core muscles - ouch!

The next meeting will be on Monday, February 10, when Dan Nelson will talk about '2000 years of shoemaking'. A warm welcome is given to all visitors.