Donations have been made to two Isle of Man charities from the proceeds of a successful Pilates event led by local teachers Mo Sherring and Johan Zwaenepoel.

Joseph’s Legacy – Pilates 100 Years On was held to mark the 100 years since Joseph Pilates arrived in the Isle of Man in autumn 1915. It was while interned in the Island during World War One that Joseph was able to start developing the exercise system which is now the global phenomenon of Pilates.

The event, held in Braddan in October, included a lecture about Joseph’s original teaching style and philosophy, a demonstration of Joseph’s original 34 movements to show how they have been adapted for modern day use, and Pilates workshops for attendees.

There was also a film in which Mo interviewed Lolita San Miguel, who was certified to teach by Joseph, describing Joseph’s appreciation of his time in the Island.

The organisers decided to make donations from the proceeds of the events to Bridge the Gap and the Knockaloe Exhibition and Patrick Community Centre Trust.

Bridge the Gap (www.bridgethegap.im) helps young people between the ages of 16 and 18 to adjust from paediatric to adult care, especially helping those with complex, chronic or life-threatening medical conditions.

Knockaloe Exhibition and Patrick Community Centre Trust (www.knockaloe.im) is restoring the Old School in Patrick into a community and exhibition centre and researches the history of Knockaloe Internment Camp, where Joseph was held during the World War One.

Pilates enthusiasts are encouraged to join the Facebook page Joseph’s Legacy – Pilates 100+ to receive early notification of events already being planned for 2016.

Photo - Mo Sherring presents a donation to Alison Jones of the Knockaloe Exhibition and Patrick Community Centre Trust.