Meet Claire: Massage Guru, Soon-to-Be Pilates Instructor and Laughter Queen!
Hi! I’m Claire McFarlane, one half of the sister-in-law team behind McFarlane Massage Therapy in Warminster.
I’m the one you’ll normally hear before you see – I love to bring a little laughter into people’s lives! Helping people achieve their fitness, movement and mobility goals – big or small – is what I’m all about. And if we can have fun while we do that? Perfect!
Though this is my first blog post, I’ve been offering massage and fitness classes in Warminster for 19 years now.
In the Beginning
I started out working at Harridges Gym and teaching spin classes in the local area. Working to help people meet their fitness goals was hugely inspirational and I loved the energy and determination that clients brought to my classes.
Becoming a Massage Therapist
I ultimately realised I wanted to offer a more complete service for my clients. I started a sports massage course and really enjoyed furthering my understanding of the body and movement patterns. Over the years, I also added hot stones massage, ultrasound and interferential therapy to my skill set.
A Little Setback
A while ago, I had a little blip in my journey. I injured my back and had to work really hard to rehabilitate myself. Fortunately, a combination of massage, acupuncture, myofascial release and Pilates helped rebuild my alignment and movement. At this point, I realised how poor my posture had become!
Pilates to the Rescue
Determined to sort myself out, I threw myself into Pilates with Caroline Hope Hawkins. She inspired so much that I decided to become a Pilates teacher too! I started my training in January 2019 with Body Control Pilates and the plan is to qualify in January 2020. I am so excited to start offering Pilates classes in Warminster and beyond!
For now, I’m working with my lovely Sunday practice class, Ryan, Stu, Paula, Kirsty, Dawn, Muriel, Frankie & Mike. They have been very patient with me while I get to grips with it all. It has been such a pleasure to see the improvements in alignment and functional stability – amazing work everyone!
I’d also like to give a special thanks to Hannah Day, Pear Studio 714, for supporting me and offering up the space for our practice class.