Turning my back on a successful career in television to become a Pilates instructor was definitely a leap of faith for me. But it looks like the change of lifestyle is starting to pay off as my Chiswick based Pilates classes have just been voted the Best Pilates Class in West London by the West London Mum Live.Love.Local Awards. I'm overwhelmed and thrilled all at the same time!

Launched as ‘a reminder of what makes West London great’ the awards ask residents firstly to nominate and then vote for their favourite local places, businesses and people. It’s a great way to promote local services and is a testament to the valuable service that small businesses can offer the local community.

I'm not only flattered, I’m astounded as I didn’t even know I was in the running! Turning my back on a well paid career was a big risk but I knew I wanted a healthier, more holistic lifestyle. I invested heavily in my training which took place in California, as I wanted to learn from the world’s leading Pilates practitioners, in order to bring the best of that knowledge back to the UK. There are lots of Pilates classes in West London and plenty of choice of teachers so to be voted the best class of all is wonderful.

I want to say a huge thank you to my inspirational clients.

A good relationship between clients and instructor is vital; I learn as much from them as they do from me, as their feedback helps me to create the right class, the right atmosphere and the right exercises for their needs. So thanks to one and all for taking the time to nominate and vote for me. I'll do my best to live up to your expectations!

Here’s what some of my clients said about me:

We have been doing Pilates for years and have tried out various classes in Chiswick. Rachel’s classes are by far the best! You definitely work hard but you can see (and feel) the results: The backaches are gone and your body feels so much more toned. We highly recommend giving the classes a try! Anne and Peter

I have always hated exercise classes and have tended to steer clear of them, but I was persuaded that Pilates was different, and it is! The controlled and precise movements and accompanying breathing that Rachel so expertly teaches have already made a noticeable difference to my body. I feel stronger and more in control, and I have discovered muscles I hadn’t even known were there. Kate

Rachel provides exactly the right balance of support and encouragement, with the will to challenge and extend your physical fitness. She is an exceptional, personable instructor and her classes are challenging yet enjoyable. Her expertise and attention to detail makes all the difference and I have noticed improvements in posture, ease of movement and muscle definition. I would definitely recommend her. Anne