Question 1

What is the Alexander Technique and how can it help me?

Accepted Answer

The Alexander Technique teaches you to move with greater freedom and efficiency, undo unwanted postural habits and address patterns of tension. It can improve your body awareness, reduce pain, enhance your balance and coordination, and promote better posture. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, aiming to improve your performance in running, music or other activities, or simply wanting to enhance your overall well-being, the Alexander Technique offers a holistic way to achieve your goals.

Question 2

Q: What can I expect in my first Alexander Technique lesson?

Accepted Answer

A: The session generally begins with a discussion of your specific needs, goals and any physical concerns you may have. This is followed by a series of gentle, guided movements and hands-on adjustments designed to help you become more aware of your body mechanics and postural habits. The teacher will use their hands to gently guide you into positions that reveal habitual patterns of tension and teach you how to release them. By the end of the lesson, you should have a better understanding of how to move more efficiently and with less strain.

Question 3

What benefits can the Alexander Technique bring to my running?

Accepted Answer

The Alexander Technique teaches you to move more efficiently and with greater freedom, improving your posture, balance, and coordination. For runners, this means better breathing, reduced muscle tension, and a more balanced body alignment. My RunSMART lessons in Tonbridge and London help you become more aware of your movements, leading to a smoother and more sustainable running technique. This holistic approach enhances physical performance and promotes overall well-being.

Question 4

Are RunSMART lessons only for experienced runners?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not! Since 2015, I have worked with numerous runners of all abilities, from sub-2.30 marathoners to complete beginners who have never run before. The principles I employ from the Alexander Technique and traditional running coaching are equally applicable to everybody, no matter your experience or fitness level.

Question 5

Q: How many lessons will I need to take?

Accepted Answer

A: There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to how many lessons you'll need as it can vary greatly depending on your individual goals, your starting point and how consistently you can practice the principles in your daily life. I generally recommend a minimum of three lessons to get started, ideally quite close together, but many continue for up to 10 or more. However, because everyone’s needs and circumstances differ, some may require fewer lessons while others may benefit from ongoing sessions for a more extended period, less frequently.
With RunSMART lessons, the sessions tend to be spaced out a little more to give clients more of a chance to apply the work into their running schedule.

Question 6

Q. What should I wear to an Alexander Technique lesson?

Accepted Answer

A. Any comfortable clothing that you can move freely in will be best.

Question 7

Where are the lessons held?

Accepted Answer

In Kent, RunSMART lessons are held on the athletics track at the Tonbridge School Centre, London Rd, Tonbridge TN10 3AD. 
In London, I offer running lessons in Highbury Fields, Shoreditch Park, Clissold Park, Haggerston Park and Southwark Park.
I teach regular Alexander Technique lessons on Tuesdays at the Tonbridge School Centre clinic, TN10 3AD, and at the London Centre for Alexander Technique and Training, 137 Grosvenor Ave, London N5 2NH by appointment.
Contact me directly for more information or to book your lessons.

Frequently asked questions