PARENTS say children who took part in a pilot pilates exercise scheme in Oxford have emerged from the course happier, leaner and more confident.

Five children, aged between seven and 13, from schools across the county, completed a 10-week course on Wednesday.

They were taking part in a nutrition and healthy lifestyle initiative called Mind Exercise Nutrition Do It! (Mend) aimed at children struggling with their weight.

The course was run by the Oxfordshire NHS Primary Care Trust.

And they enjoyed the new active lifestyle so much they made a group decision to sign up to learn pilates in an effort to stay trim and healthy.

The one-hour classes, held twice a week, were run as part of the Change4Life project, a national year-long campaign to encourage children to be more active.

Pilates is similar to yoga and involves a series of stretching exercises.

Course leader Charley Ferrall Peevey, said: “Pilates is an excellent all-round work-out. It strengthens core muscles and teaches kids to hold their heads up high.

“I split the classes into half cardiovascular, half strengthening and toning exercises.

“They have all enjoyed it, and it does seem to have given them extra confidence.”

Lisa Birch, from Watermill Way, Barton, Oxford, sent her daughter Nicole, seven, along to the classes.

When Nicole joined she was 4ft 6in and weighed just over seven stone, meaning she was classed as clinically obese.

But since the course started at South Oxford Community Centre, in Lake Street, her weight has held steady, despite her growing 2cm.

Mrs Birch said: “Nicole has absolutely loved going to the classes and making new friends.“It’s not just about losing weight for Nicole but about staying healthy and getting a bit more confidence, which she struggles with.”

Anyone interested in signing children up for future classes, which will be held at the community centre from next month, should email charleyfp@googlemail.com