TDR & the Women's Rugby World Cup #BringIt to Belfast

Women’s rugby is back in the news as their World Cup comes to an exciting conclusion this weekend. Since getting underway in Dublin on 9th August, the 12 teams have battled in sell-out matches through to the semi-finals, which took place in at the heart of Ulster Rugby, the Kingspan Stadium in Belfast last Tuesday. England and New Zealand now face each other in the finals on Saturday 26th August and it promises to be a gutsy and enthralling match. With so much drama and compelling action, this Women’s Rugby World Cup has captured the hearts and minds of their fans in both Dublin and Belfast.  #WRWC2017

Earlier in the tournament. World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont commented:

"This has been a very special Women's Rugby World Cup on and off the field, and Dublin has certainly played its part as an exceptional host. From the facilities to the excellent fans and superb volunteers, there has been a special family atmosphere. As we look to Belfast and the business end of the tournament, I would like to thank everyone involved..., but especially the fans and volunteers, who have been outstanding."

The Rugby World Cup - From Humble Beginnings

Now considered to be the premier international competition in rugby union for women, this is the 8th World Cup since it’s more humble beginnings in 1991. The USA took the cup then, although New Zealand has had the most wins, with four Cups under their belt. To add to this Saturday’s tension and competitiveness, the England team is in its fifth World Cup final in a row, having won twice including the last in 2014.

Back in the early days general support was much less widespread. There’s a story that the Soviet Union team travelled to Wales in 1991 with only enough money for their air fares and had to barter vodka and caviar to make ends meet. Customs officers were called in but thankfully no charges were pressed as generous donations from businesses and individuals came flooding in, including £100 from the mother of Bess Evans, the Wales hooker.

Growing Audiences

Happily, women’s rugby has become much more popular with businesses, broadcasters and the public over the last two decades.  In 2006 the final in Canada was broadcast in a number of countries and streamed live online. Sky Sports finally cottoned on and in July 2010 they broadcast 13 live matches, including the semis and the final.

England captain and player of the year, Sarah Hunter, said at the tournament’s launch:

"The standard of women’s rugby has grown and grown and grown. That’s brilliant. As an international player, you want every game to be competitive and to have to play at your best to get the result you need. I think it will be a fantastic showcase of the women’s game."

A fact surely confirmed this week, when it was announced that the final would be shown on ITV. Hunter went on to say:

"That is brilliant news. We want to showcase our sport to the widest audience possible. So, to get a prime-time slot on terrestrial TV, so anyone can watch it and support us ... credit to ITV."

Who Will You Support in the Finals??

The last match is always an emotional, high tension roller coaster and this one between two rugby giants promises not to disappoint. Both teams have a strong reputation and a proven track record. So who will you be supporting on the day? We are maybe a little biased at TDR Academy as we’ve been organising the Sports Massage Therapists for the England team, the Red Roses, liaising with the team physio during their tour in Dublin and Belfast. Tanya’s been in the loop for the other teams, in conjunction with the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), after previously working with the NZ Black Fern's last year, but has just not enough hours in the day to work on them this time - but thanks for asking - USA, France, Australia and NZ! Gary Wilson has played his part too for TDR working with the USA team post the semi final match to aid their recovery to help them get back on track to fight for their place this saturday - 3rd or 4th?

The England squad are a young one, with many still in their early twenties. Star of the semi finals against France, tight-head prop Sarah Bern is just 20 years old, while hooker Amy Cokayne is only 21.  Head coach Simon Middleton feels that their youthful enthusiasm gives the team a psychological boost and that  “they have that light-heartedness that youth brings. They haven’t been through these competitions so many times that they feel the pressure as much”.

The Red Roses have been billed as this World Cup’s favourites, but the Black Ferns will be champing at the bit to deny them. Who ever wins, it promises to be an exciting and dramatic final this Saturday 26th August 2017 at 7.45pm and we’re so proud to have played our small part in the tournament. Bring it on! #BringIt to Belfast!  You can watch it live at World Rugby - who will you be cheering on?!

Follow @WorldRugby

Two Amazing New Classes & Instructors Starting Soon!

At TDR Academy we firmly believe we are providing a space that encourages you to feel that - no matter what your age, size, ability or past experience - your body has the potential to become better.  We can help get your body to it’s best. And that’s why we’ve added two new classes to our timetable.
 

Beginner/Early Intermediate Pilates with Olga Edwards

• Beginners sessions are open to those with no experience or are a bit rusty, as the focus is on the fundamentals.
• Pilates allows your body to function in a more co-ordinated way through precise, controlled and effective movements, through a strong central core and focus on your breath.
• Benefits include improved mobility, flexibility, all-over strength, posture and core stability.
• Mondays 7.30pm
• Starts on Monday 24th July for a 6 week block at £50.

Olga’s passion for Pilates will be apparent as soon as you meet her:

“I found that I would tell everyone and anyone who would listen that they should try Pilates...I hope to pass on my love for Pilates to everyone who attends my classes. Not only does Pilates strengthen your core muscles (and all those little tiny ones we tend to ignore), and improve your posture, it also gives you confidence in yourself and your abilities with the progression that you can see and feel.”

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Total Body Stretch for All Levels with Jo Burns

• Drawing from a variety of methods of Yoga, sports stretching and partner support, this class will help you achieve longer, looser muscles.
• The focus will be on relaxing your muscles and on breathing through your movements.
• Benefits include releasing tight muscles, improving mobility and flexibility, and aiding recovery from sport, hobbies, work and life!
• Suitable for any level as modifications can be given to help you find your own level.
• Tuesdays 7.30pm
• Starts on Tuesday 25th July for a 4 week block at the reduced rate of £26.

Jo's commitment to Yoga and stretching the body for better health is at the heart of her teaching:

“I truly believe a healthy body and mind improves the quality of life, which is why I'm passionate about exercise...Through regular and focused stretching I believe we are able to increase our flexibility, while at the same time, extend the longevity for participation in high impact sport, or in whatever your work life, passions and hobbies take you through.  We only get one body - so together, let's look after it!"

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Both Olga and Jo have been teaching at TDR Academy the past few months, building up their experience while studying hard to achieve their qualifications. We’re so excited to have them as part of our team here! Jo and Olga have been committed students at TDR Academy in Yoga and Pilates for over 5 years and you may well have met them already or seen photos on our Facebook page of them too, as they’ve both caught the acro-bug and feature regularly!

You can check out some Testimonials of our lovely ladies on the most recent Facebook reviews - all 5 stars! - or here!
 

For both classes:

• All classes must be booked and pre-paid in advance to secure your place.
• Discounted price for block booking or drop-in rate available as payg.
• Priority will be given to block bookings.
• Students must be aged 18 or over.
• If you have any current injuries or medical issues, please speak to Tanya to establish if the classes are suitable for you or if you need to seek advice from your GP prior.
   

So, what are you waiting for? There are limited spaces in the classes, so avoid disappointment and book today! It’s an investment in yourself that will have you wanting to come back to the Studio for more!  You can contact Tanya, as always, on 07879415711 or by email at info@tdracademy.co.uk.

The July Holidays are Nearly Here!

TDR Academy is closing for just a few days!

As we’ve come to expect in Northern Ireland, our summer weather has been very changeable these last few weeks - fabulous BBQ sunshine one minute and cold northerly gales the next. But undeterred, we’re all looking forward to some time off with long school holidays stretching out ahead of us.

July Holidays

Please note that there will be no classes during the week of 10th - 14th July - to give you time to get out exploring!

The Academy will be closed completely only on 12th and 13th July.

Appointments for Injury Therapy, 1:1s and Sports Massage

We will be off only for these 2 days on 12th and 13th, but you can text us on 07879 415711, email info@tdracademy.co.uk or Facebook message us and we’ll reply when we’re back to get you booked in for whatever you need!
 

Whatever your plans are for the summer, TDR Academy hopes you have a wonderful sun shining week over the 12th (ever hopeful) and we look forward to seeing you soon at the Academy again!!

See you soon!

June Holiday Arrangements at TDR Academy

Tanya's heading off on her holidays!

As the sun continues to shine and we head into June, our thoughts inevitably turn to the summer holidays. I’ve already booked mine and I’ll be away from Tuesday 6th - Thursday 22nd June (it's been two years since my last holiday)!  But don't panic - we've got ya covered!!

TDR will still be open, though in a reduced capacity. I'll still be at the end of an email or text which I'll pick up after 23rd June when I get back.  Voicemails may not work so well, so text or email, please!

All Classes

For those currently attending any classes, if you can’t attend, need to swap or you want to schedule a catch-up class, please contact Olga on 07740656153. Take a note of Olga's number - as she'll respond to text messages!  Just to remind you - I won't (can you see me grinning?)!!

• The lovely Olga has been busy undertaking her Pilates Instructor training and will be covering all the evening Pilates classes whilst I am away.
• Anna, an experienced Pilates teacher with an awesome plank-ability, will be covering the Thursday 10am class - but PLEASE NOTE the class will be rescheduled to Fridays at 10am on 9th and 16th June, then back to Thursdays on 22nd June at 10am.
• The lovely Jo, who has also been busy training in anatomy, physiology and stretching techniques, will be covering the Monday evening Yoga class.
• For those lucky to be attending Wednesdays Aerial Yoga - you'll get the lovely duo of Jo and Olga, team teaching you!!

Appointments for Sports Massage

• Gary will be available to book general sports massages to aid your recovery and relieve tight muscles.
• Various times are available as usual - typically Monday daytime and Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
• Contact Gary directly on 07803162070 to book in (from 6-23rd June) - texts are the preference for taking bookings.

Injury Therapy Appointments or 1:1s

Any appointments for injury assessment or treatment or private 1:1s will be unavailable during the holiday break - sorry!  If you are keen to book in once I return, send me a text on 07879415711 or email info@tdracademy.co.uk and leave a message and I will pick up on my return to get you booked in asap!

Quick Note for the July holidays

I'll remind you closer to the time, but in case you are thinking ahead, please note that there will be no classes during the week of 10th - 14th July.  The Academy will be closed completely only on 12th and 13th July.

Whatever your plans are for June and July, TDR Academy hopes you have a wonderful sun shining few weeks (ever hopeful) and I look forward to being back at the Academy again - relaxed, smiling and raring to go!!  See you soon!

The sun is shining, bring on the exercise

As we spring into the month of May, there have been two things out of the ordinary recently. Firstly, after some baltic weather last week, the sun has finally come out, giving us halcyon blue skies and while the wind may still be a bit nippy, there’s a brightness and freshness to life that wasn’t here in April. Secondly, we’ve noticed a sudden surge in people sharing their exercise achievements across social media and the numerous fitness apps. Whether people are slowly emerging to stroll or power walk the local parks and beaches, or whether folk have been maintaining their exercise regimes throughout the colder months, we’re definitely noticing them all the more at the minute!

Are you someone who’s inspired by the weather to get out or are you still happy to curl up on the sofa and wait a little longer? You know what we’re going to say, don’t you? Get out and get active!  

Now is the time of year to make your walks a little more active or add to your cycles or runs to develop your muscles strength and endurance. Remember to be careful though - we may live in the north of Europe, but the sun is surprisingly strong. Matthew Bryce, the North Lanarkshire surfer who was rescued on Monday after 32 hours in the Irish Sea, suffered badly with sunburn.

So, when you’re out and if it's sunny, put on an appropriate factor level of sun cream, bring water for hydration and monitor how much time you spend in the sun. Dig out your hat and sunglasses - you can burn even when it’s cloudy.

Add Some Spice to Your Regular Exercise Routine

If you’ve not done any exercise for a while and don’t know where to start, or want to pep up your regular routine, why not try adding any of these exercises to your activity list.  Add them all for a good challenge for a sunny day’s walk or run!

• 40 jumping jacks
• 10 squats
• 3 star jumps
• 15 standing calf raises
• 10 lunges (each leg)
• 10 incline press-ups (hands on a park bench or against a wall)
• 30 secs wall sit
• 10 side lunges (each leg)
• 5 star jumps
• 10 tricep dips (hands on a park bench or hip height wall)
• 50 jumping jacks

You can do a circuit, like walk, run or cycle for a distance or time and then add in one of the exercises listed and repeat to work your way down the list.  Maybe you work with distances between trees or lamp posts, or a set time on your watch, for example every 2 minutes you add the next exercise.  They’ll certainly add to your day out and maybe even get your heart pumping for some of them!

As with any exercise, if you have any doubts or feel pain, stop immediately and seek advice. And remember if you have any current injuries, you could make an appointment with Tanya for an injury treatment session and with Gary or Tanya for a sports massage if it feels like tight muscles that need a bit of tlc to recover. It’s a good idea to have a chat with your GP if you have any medical issues before commencing any exercise.

On a different note, we’d like to thank everyone who voted for TDR Academy
in the Ballyclare Business Awards!
We’ve been shortlisted for best service provider and we’re delighted!!
Thank you for taking the time to put us on your list to win!! It means so much!!
Winners will be announced at an awards night on 26th May. 
We’ll keep you posted on how we get on!

Ballyclare May Fair 2017

We can’t believe that it’s that time of year again! Ballyclare May Fair is back, starting today on Friday 20th, and with the main day on Tuesday 23rd through to another big day on Saturday 27th May for the grand finale. Will you be coming over to Ballyclare to join in the fun and festivities? @ANBorough @Ballyclaremayfair

This year’s fair will kick off with the traditional horse fair in Six Mile Water Park. This is one of the few horse fairs left in Northern Ireland, although it’s much more than horse trading nowadays. There will be family activities, a local food and crafts market, live music in the evening, Mayor's parade, sports events and exhibitions - something for everyone!

Local shops compete for the best-dressed window, and children take part in fun days and competitions. The theme this year is Unbelievable Universe and there’s a wonderful programme of events, click here for more details. You can also pick up a leaflet in most local shops and, of course, at TDR.

Ballyclare Business Awards

On Friday 26th May, the winners in the Ballyclare Business Awards are being announced at an awards evening. As you have been awesome, TDR Academy has been shortlisted again - thank you again for your votes! Keep your fingers crossed for us and keep an eye on Facebook and other social media for the results - here's hoping again this year!!

Saturday 27th is Race Day!!

The Co. Antrim Harriers May Fair race starts at 10am on Saturday 27th - and we’re very proud at TDR Academy to have sponsored the event t-shirts and provided some prizes too!! Tanya will also be there for a few lucky people providing FREE post race sports massage and injury advice.  Spaces are limited and last just 10-15mins.  Donations are very welcome for this service, with suggestions at £5, which will be donated to the running clubs nominated charity again. Tanya will be located in the function room upstairs in the rugby club, near the fire exit - call over and say hi!

Car Parking and Traffic Arrangements

So, if you’re coming down to Ballyclare over the next week, whether it’s for the fair or for your next class at TDR Academy, please be aware of disruptions to traffic and bear in mind that there will be alternative parking arrangements - we’ve been told that there will be limited car parking available at The Square Car Park, Harrier Way Car Park and Sixmile Leisure Centre.  Like last year the only road closure they envisage is during the parade on Saturday 27 May from 1-2pm.  Please note due to safety last year, the access way through Harrier Way Car Park will be closed when the amusements are operating (from 12-10pm on Tues 23rd and Sat 27th and from 7-9.30pm on 24-26 May). Keep an eye on the TDR Academy Facebook page for notifications - if we hear anything about parking updates or traffic issues, we will keep you posted as best we can!

We look forward to seeing you and to celebrating Ballyclare in our annual fair!

Free Sports Massage Prize Giveaway

There’s a number of sporting events coming up in the next few months that we know you’ve been training hard for - from walking a mile, embarking on a couch to 5K, running and cycling to getting muddy events! At TDR Academy we want to support you and one of the best ways we can do that is through #painmanagement and #sportsinjury prevention.

And so, we are offering you two prizes in our online competitions being launched today!!  The first prize will be for a FREE (yes FREE!!) 1 hour Sports Massage with Gary Wilson, TDR’s resident Sports Massage Therapist.  It’s time to have some fun before the blood, sweat and tears for these events begin in earnest.

The second prize - well, you'll have to keep an eye on Facebook or our website blog for notification of it - coming very soon too!!

Your deadline is 3.30pm on Wednesday 26th April and we’ll have the therapy table ready for the lucky person when we announce the winner at 3pm on Thursday 27th via Facebook!

Of course, we’re not going to make it that easy for you - and we know how you like a challenge! OK, so here's what you have to do:

1. Like the Tanya D Ross TDR Academy Facebook page
2. Like this Facebook post
3. Tag 1 friend
4. Comment briefly - what's your sporting goal and why you need a sports massage to aid your recovery
5. Share this post on your own Facebook page
6. Check out our latest blog post regarding the Ballyclare business awards and vote for us, just follow this link
7. Finally, you'll need to sign up for the TDR Academy email newsletter. You can do this from any page on our website

Simples!!!  So get crackin’ and good luck!!

Help TDR Academy smile again at the Ballyclare Business Awards!

Last year’ Ballyclare Business Awards were a great success and the Ballyclare Town Team are delighted to say that they will take place again this year.

The Awards are a great way to recognise businesses that support Ballyclare and who take pride in their products, services as well as our local area. One year on, we still firmly believe that’s us!

Last year at the Ballyclare Business Awards 2016 you voted us Runner Up in the “Service with a Smile” category and this year we’re asking for your support once again.

There will be 8 categories in 2017 and we think that the **Professional Service Provider of the Year** best matches what we offer. We need your support in the public vote.

All you need to do is click here between 10am Monday 10th April and 4pm Wednesday 26th April. You can also post your support on Twitter and Instagram by using the hashtag #BClareBiz and follow @ballyclaretown but note this does not replace the actual vote.

The shortlist will be announced on 27th April. These businesses will meet at an awards evening at the end of May where the winners will be revealed.

So why should you vote for TDR Academy? We are the professional go-to studio for Pilates, Yoga and Aerial Fitness in Ballyclare - whether you’re wanting a class or a 1:1 session and Tanya Ross can work with any goals, thanks to her depth of knowledge and experience. Tanya Ross is also a highly qualified and experienced Advanced Neuromuscular & Sports Massage Therapist and Gary Wilson is our resident Sports Massage Therapist, experienced in supporting many major sporting events in NI and abroad, including working with international level athletes. Through offering injury & pain management treatment sessions, sports massage and massage therapies - there’s something for everyone at TDR Academy.

There will be lots of posters around town and we’ll be posting across our social media too. So don’t delay, vote today and put a smile on to Tanya’s face once again!!

That link again for voting - click here between 10am Monday 10th April and 4pm Wednesday 26th April.

To say thank you for voting - we have launched 2 social media campaigns with prizes up for grabs with TDR Academy. Check out Facebook for further details if you haven’t seen them already!!

The Ballyclare Town Team have requested that you please vote in all categories for the business of your choice - we hope it’s TDR Academy - as you will not be able to return to the voting page again once you have submitted your choice.

Please note - voting patterns are very closely monitored this year and voting irregularities (e.g. more than one vote for a business per IP address or sequential votes which may indicate votes have been purchased or purposely tampered with) will result in those votes being disqualified. So please vote on your own devices and only vote once.  Thank you for maximising your vote for us!!

Thank you in advance for all your support from all at TDR Academy!!

Listen to Your Body

As we head into March and those of you still sticking to your New Year's resolution to 'do more exercise' are feeling the benefits of your recent activities, it's so important to remember to incorporate recovery into your weekly exercise plan.

But what does that actually mean? And why is it important? Active recovery strategies can be anything from:

• Sufficient cool-down and stretching - Yoga is excellent for this and Pilates can also lengthen and realign your muscles.
• Sports massage and relaxation massage therapies - including soft tissue therapy.
• Saunas, steam rooms and plunge pools for contrast therapy.
• Foam rolling as a form of myofascial release (mobilises your connective tissues and iron out your tight bits!)
• Self-trigger point therapy using spikey massage balls to delve into those sore muscular points.

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You can book a session with Tanya to learn how to use foam rollers and massage balls correctly, appropriately and specifically for you and to learn which products and types to purchase. All the equipment shown here are available to buy at TDR Academy

Why Should You Attend a Soft Tissue Therapist?

Professionally qualified and fully insured therapists come into their own when your own home management plan get to a point that it isn't as effective as it has been. We've all suffered from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) at one time or another - it typically lasts more than 2-3 days - but if that niggle you're feeling is more than that, and takes more than a week to settle, then the best course of action is to see a professional. We all know it's better to nip things in the bud early on and to help prevent the body's natural process of developing compensation patterns from taking hold and especially if this subconsciously happening, as they are often very subtle. Ultimately this leads to a much longer full recovery and participation in your chosen sport/activity - not what you had in mind when you set your goals this year.

As we've mentioned in previous blogs (Christmas Offer to all Runners & Christmas Offer to all Cyclists), the Sports Massage Association offer great advice and explains the benefits of soft tissue therapy. The techniques used by soft tissue therapists have been developed to ensure effective and efficient results are gained from each massage given. Depending on the application of the techniques, this type of therapy may:

• Improve circulation and lymphatic flow
• Assist in the removal of metabolic waste
• Sedate or stimulate nerve endings, depending on required goals
• Increase or decrease muscle tone, depending on required goals
• Increase or decrease muscle length, depending on required goals
• Remodel scar tissue when required
• Assist in mental preparation for sporting participation

It's also beneficial to people who suffer from many day to day problems, such as repetitive strain injury, sprains, tension, fatigue and used in assisting with preventive treatment to nip developing issues in the bud and limit their progression, and in the later stages of injury recovery.

At TDR Academy we're committed to Therapeutic and Dynamic Recoveries (hence the TDR in TDR Academy) to restore your body so you can get on with your life, your hobbies and your competitions.

Tanya Ross is qualified to the highest level in hands on neuro, musculo, skeletal injury treatment and rehabilitation for both acute and chronic conditions, as well as in Sports and relaxation massage therapies. Her passion, knowledge, experience and time commitment to you will promote your faster recovery - with over 20 years of experience, you are in safe hands. Tanya believes in educating you to try to keep you off her treatment couch.

Sports massage isn't just for Tour de France winners like Stephen Roche, pictured above with Gary

Gary Wilson is our qualified Sports Massage practitioner. His own sporting experiences have taught him not only the benefits of self-care, but also of the value of attending regular sports massage to reduce any issues from building to problems, without you knowing its happening. During your consultation with him, he will create an individual treatment plan with specific stretching advice to help you with your training development and recovery enhancement. Gary can provide you with the regular support you need to keep your muscles working in tip top condition. How often you have a Sports Massage will really depend on your level, frequency and intensity of training and your frequency of home recoveries utilised. If you are training more than 4 or 5 times a week at higher intensities and depending on the sport/activity you may need to see him at least once a month, and less frequently if your schedule is about 3 times a week, meaning a visit to Gary every 2 months. How you feel is important in making this decision - but this feeling has to be compared to the feeling your muscles have about 2-3 days post massage as this is your baseline to compare future build-ups to in tension levels.

Tanya will get you back to full participation as soon as possible and combined with Gary's sports massages - we aim to keep you there!

Contact Tanya on 07879415711 or info@tdracademy.co.uk for further details, to book in for appointments or to arrange purchase of any self help therapy tools.  Follow us on Facebook and sign up for our email newsletter (at the bottom of the home page) to be kept up to date on upcoming offers too.

Tina Machina Trapeze Workshop

Tina Machina is an amazing trapeze performer - maybe you got to see her at the Tumble Circus shows over Christmas 2017 at Writer's Square in the big top?!

In this adult only workshop, Tina will cover some trapeze specific conditioning to help you warm up to perform basic trapeze skills and progressing to more challenging skills. Doubles trapeze work will also be a fun addition to the playlist! Aerial hoop will also be available to learn the crossover of skills from trapeze to hoop.

Suitable for: Adults over 18 with some experience of any aerial or gymnastics training preferred or a basic level of strength and fitness needed to get the most out of the workshop.

Details: Sunday 15th January 2.30-4.30pm, Cost - £18
Places are allocated on a first paid first served basis, and payment must be received before the 14th January.
Limited to 9 places.

Payment can be made by:
Cash,
Cheque (to Tanya Ross),
Paypal (must include any incurred fees) to info@tdracademy.co.uk, or
Bank transfer (please ask for details).

Contact Tanya on 07879415711 or info@tdracademy.co.uk for details and to book.
 

Christmas Offer to All Cyclists

As the main road cycling season draws to a close for another year, it's time to take a breath before working out how to make next year's cycling even better. What pre-season preparations can you make now to ensure you all get the most out of 2017? Whether you are training for road cycling or are continuing to enter cyclocross races in this current season, at TDR Academy we know we can help you in this important stage by aiding your muscle recovery and preparation. 

TDR Academy is a specialist bodywork clinic and mindful movement studio aimed at getting you and your club's bodies to their best. We can provide you with regular Sports Massage sessions and with injury assessment, treatment and rehabilitation when needed.

Let us help you get there.  Check out our website for further details of what we offer - www.tdracademy.co.uk.

Gary Wilson is our qualified Sports Massage practitioner.  Over the past 40 years, he's been involved in cycling, triathlon and running from local right up to international level, including at the 1990 New Zealand Commonwealth Games. He is a founder member of East Antrim Cycling Club and has been involved in many roles over many years. We think it's fair to say that he knows his way around a bike and have lots of advice to offer! 

Gary's own experiences have taught him not only the benefits of self-care, but also of the value of attending regular sports massage. During your consultation, he will create an individual treatment plan with specific stretching advice to help you with your training development and recovery enhancement.

Through sports massage, Gary can help alleviate the stress and tension which builds up in the body's tissues during physical activity.  Where adhesions occur due to overexertion and/or overuse, his massages can help to break down the adhesions quickly and effectively. An absolute necessity to maintaining optimum fitness and performance, and to achieving your 2017 ambitions, whatever your level of cycling. Gary has worked with many top level cyclists, including Stephen Roche at this year's Gran Fondo (pictured here).

Gary's own training involves running 3 times a week, alongside his 3 weekly cycling sessions (totalling around 150-200 miles/week) and in his own words: 

"After a few years of continual calf injuries while running in addition to my regular volume of cycling training, I have found how self-treating has worked for me. Self massage, foam rolling and working with a massage ball have kept me injury free for 10 weeks now, running 3 times per week plus cycling and some stretching. So I believe in the benefits of sports massage and other self-help techniques." 

Want to know more?  The Sports Massage Association offer great advice and explains the benefits of soft tissue therapy.  The techniques used by soft tissue therapists have been developed to ensure effective and efficient results are gained from each massage given. Depending on the application of the techniques, this type of therapy may: 

·        Improve circulation and lymphatic flow 

·        Assist in the removal of metabolic waste 

·        Sedate or stimulate nerve endings 

·        Increase or decrease muscle tone 

·        Increase or decrease muscle length 

·        Remodel scar tissue when required 

·        Assist in mental preparation for sporting participation 

It's also beneficial to people who suffer from many day to day problems, such as repetitive strain injury, sprains, tension, fatigue and used in assisting with preventive treatment and in the later stages of injury recovery.
 
Gary's clients also agree about the benefits that regular sessions have had in helping their performances:

 "As an avid road cyclist I've been attending TDR Academy for around a year for Pre and Post event sports massage. The combination of hard training, club riding and a busy lifestyle, can put serious strain on my muscles and I’ve found Gary's massage techniques hugely beneficial in terms of better flexibility, less muscle tightness and pain with improved suppleness. I have felt really positive results in being able to achieve better power output on the bike and hence improved overall performance."

R. Logan, Northern Cycle Club, Oct 2016

 If you need further advice, treatment or rehab planning for any injuries, I would be happy to assist you with this stage through the use of Neuromuscular Injury Therapy, Sports Massage and Corrective Movement strategies.  Specialised Pilates sessions can also be organised specifically for your Club to aid with improving cycling performance, injury prevention and/or rehabilitation. With 19 years of experience of working with injuries across many sports and lifestyle areas, I will get you back to full participation as soon as possible and combined with Gary's sports massages - we aim to keep you there!

To help you onto the road to peak condition, we're offering: 

·        A discounted price of £40 (normally £60) when you book for 2 x 1 hour sessions with Gary Wilson at TDR Academy, 

·        Please quote the reference XMASCYCLING when booking. The first appointment must be booked in before the end of January 2017 and the second appointment can be a maximum of 10 weeks from the first session,

·       Payment of the full amount is due when you attend for the first appointment.  If purchasing as a gift voucher, full payment is due at the time of purchase.

·        Our only ask as part of the booking is that you like the Tanya D Ross/TDR Academy Facebook page prior and check-in on Facebook when you attend both appointments! Simples!

We thank you in advance and it would be great to hear from you if you would be interested in subscribing to hear of any further offers in the future to help support you.  You can sign up yourself via the website or contact Tanya on 07879415711 or by email on info@tdracademy.co.uk.

Yours in sport and health,

Tanya D. Ross
TDR Academy

Christmas Offer for All Runners

As winter takes a hold, what preparations can you make now to ensure you get the most out of your 2017 running season? Whether you are training for a marathon or enjoy track or cross country events, on your own or as part of a running club, at TDR Academy we know we can help you in this important stage by aiding your muscle recovery and preparation.
 

TDR Academy is a specialist bodywork clinic and mindful movement studio aimed at getting you and your club's bodies to their best. We can provide you with regular Sports Massage sessions and with injury assessment, treatment and rehabilitation when needed.
 

Let us help you get there. Check out our website for further details of what we offer - www.tdracademy.co.uk.
 

Gary Wilson is our qualified Sports Massage practitioner. Over the past 40 years, he's been involved in cycling, triathlon and running from local right up to international level, including at the 1990 New Zealand Commonwealth Games. We think it's fair to say that he knows his way around the road, trail, track and field and have lots of advice to offer!  
 

Gary's own experiences have taught him not only the benefits of self-care, but also of the value of attending regular sports massage. During your consultation, he will create an individual treatment plan with specific stretching advice to help you with your training development and recovery enhancement.

Through sports massage, Gary can help alleviate any stress and tension which builds up in the body's tissues during physical activity.  Where adhesions occur due to overexertion and/or overuse, his massages can help to break down the adhesions quickly and effectively. An absolute necessity to maintaining optimum fitness and performance, and to achieving your 2017 ambitions, whatever your level of running!

Gary's own training involves running 3 times a week, alongside his 3 weekly cycling sessions (totalling around 150-200 miles/week) and in his own words:  

"After a few years of continual calf injuries while running in addition to my regular volume of cycling training, I have found how self-treating has worked for me. Self massage, foam rolling and working with a massage ball have kept me injury free for 10 weeks now, running 3 times per week plus cycling and some stretching. So I believe in the benefits of sports massage and other self-help techniques."  

Want to know more?  The Sports Massage Association offer great advice and explains the benefits of soft tissue therapy.  The techniques used by soft tissue therapists have been developed to ensure effective and efficient results are gained from each massage given. Depending on the application of the techniques, this type of therapy may:  

·        Improve circulation and lymphatic flow  

·        Assist in the removal of metabolic waste  

·        Sedate or stimulate nerve endings  

·        Increase or decrease muscle tone  

·        Increase or decrease muscle length  

·        Remodel scar tissue when required  

·        Assist in mental preparation for sporting participation  

It's also beneficial to people who suffer from many day to day problems, such as repetitive strain injury, sprains, tension, fatigue and used in assisting with preventive treatment and in the later stages of injury recovery. 

Gary's clients also agree about the benefits that regular sessions have had in helping their performances: 

 "A friend told me about TDR Academy and now I get booked in the following day after long sportives and get a no rush massage with Gary Wilson. A value for money service and a great location.”

N. Smyth, Oct 2016
 

If you need further advice, treatment or rehab planning for any injuries, I would be happy to assist you with this stage through the use of Neuromuscular Injury Therapy, Sports Massage and Corrective Movement strategies.  Specialised Pilates sessions can also be organised specifically for you, or your running club, to aid with improving performance, injury prevention and/or rehabilitation. With 19 years experience of working with injuries across many sports and lifestyle areas, I will get you back to full participation as soon as possible and combined with Gary's sports massages - we aim to keep you there! 

To help you onto the road to peak condition, we're offering:  

·        A discounted price of £40 (normally £60) when you book for 2 x 1 hour sessions with Gary Wilson at TDR Academy, 

·        Please quote the reference XMASRUNNING when booking. The first appointment must be booked in by the end of January 2017 and the second appointment must be a maximum of 8 weeks from the first session, 

·       Payment of the full amount is due when you attend for the first appointment.  If purchasing as a gift voucher, full payment is due at the time of purchase.

·        Our only ask as part of the booking is that you like the our Tanya D Ross/TDR Academy Facebook page prior and check-in on Facebook when you attend! Simples!

We thank you in advance and it would be great to hear from you if you would be interested in hearing of any further offers in the future to help support you.  Contact Tanya on 07879415711 or by email on info@tdracademy.co.uk.

Yours in sport and health,

Tanya D. Ross
TDR Academy

Proven Benefits of Arbonne Products

Arbonne

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Arbonne products and philosophy on lifestyle are based on an approach to holistic well-being. They embrace knowledge in nutrition, health and wellness, and they carefully consider the latest expert news and information on health and wellness when developing new products and refining their ingredient policy. 

Arbonne products are pure, safe and beneficial.  The product ranges are in:

• Skincare
• Bath & Body
• Hair
• Sun
• Make-Up
• Nutrition

Ingredient Policy

Transparency and honesty. They are the hallmarks of their product integrity.  Arbonne are continuously improving and evaluating their ingredient policy so they can develop the most thoughtfully designed, innovative, safest products. And they are always striving to do better. Each and every single day.

They formulate without:

• animal products or by-products
• parabens | formaldehyde-donating preservatives | phthalates | formaldehyde
• alkylphenols | benzene | triethanolamine | monoethanolamine
• phosphates | polyethylene glycol | petrolatum | bisphenol-A
• gluten | synthetic dyes | triclosan | hydroquinone
• artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, artificial flavors
• cholesterol, trans fats, mineral oil

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Why I Shop With Arbonne?

Arbonne products contain the highest quality ingredients and will last longer than other equivalent products you buy at a cheaper price. 

My Personal Recommendation

Arbonne products have my stamp of approval!  Why?!  I personally am not into the whole 'beauty industry' and what it brings but I do try to look after my body by living a healthy lifestyle, eating clean and exercising.  My skin has had other ideas though!  I have eczema, acne rosacea and many food intolerances which affect my skin, stomach and various other symptoms.  I have used steroid creams on my face, neck and arms for about nearly 10 years and I have tried virtually all products on the market both in store, from a wide range of independent consultants selling products and topical treatments from my GP. Other products have had side effects or have burnt my skin.

I started using the Arbonne Calm Skin Care range in early June 2016 and within a few days I could feel the difference.  From day 3 - I stopped using my steroid creams!  I couldn't believe it!  I am a total skeptic as I have literally tried every brand out there - so this was amazing!  I have had to use one steroid cream once after about 2 wks, but since then I have never needed to apply any of them again.  6 months on and I am good to go and have tried some of the other skincare products and even the make up!  I haven't worn any make-up since 2007 so this is a big deal too!  My skin looks better and feels better, and I feel better on the outside and of course within!  So I can't recommend their products enough - why not try them today!

I have become an independant consultant for Arbonne as I believe in their products and I am happy to share my story .  If you have any questions or would like to receive some information - please get in touch.  Check out the latest ranges on the Arbonne website for the current gifting season too - there are great gift ideas for anyone this festive Christmas!  Last orders to be in by 15th December to ensure delivery before Christmas!

You can shop now on the website using my independent consultant ID number below, however, if you become one of my preferred clients, you can avail of around 20% off the listed prices with further reductions, offers and free gifts available at times with orders over certain values (subject to the current available offers).  What are you waiting for?!

Tanya Ross Independant Consultant ID No.: 449108677

TDR Academy Treats the Unbeatable New Zealand Black Fearns

If you enjoy rugby, they'll you'll have been glued to the screen this past few weeks as New Zealand's top ranked Black Fearns have stormed their way to success over rival teams.

They defeated England 25-20 in London, then the Canadians lost 10-20 in Dublin, and last night they trounced Ireland on their home ground in Dublin 8-38. In total @BlackFearns have made it five wins from five Tests in 2016 - a superb performance indeed!

Despite these very impressive wins, Head Coach Glenn More feels that is still room for improvement:

"There's a lot more in us yet. The good thing is we've come over here and we've had to win tough and hang tough and fight it right out to the finish. That's been good for the squad and ultimately we'll get the benefits of that."

One of the key factors in their success is their approach to recovery and it is built into their training programme.  @JamieTout, the Black Fearns' Strength and Conditioning coach, said in a recent interview:

"It's crucial about their recovery, it’s a 4 day turn around between matches during the World Cup.  Simple routine: game day, review & recovery the next day, and potentially after that we have a double training session, or maybe a longer one just in the morning and try to get them mentally refreshed in the afternoon. The following day, which the day before the game again, we get to go through the preparations and the captains run, and then back into the game."
 

Touts goes onto to say that the key things for recovery is plenty of rest and hydration. Generally if you get those two things right the muscle soreness reduces and the energy levels tend to go up as well. Each day the team use an app on their phone to record hydration levels, muscle soreness, quality of sleep, and energy levels – which gives a wellness score. This score is then used for each athlete's individual training programme.

Coming over from the southern hemisphere, our cold Irish weather has taken some getting used to. While it can be invigorating to train outside, the players have also been using the gym for warming up – often with a post match recovery session rather than a strength session – focusing on exercises, self-massage, and using lower weights but with higher repetitions, with consideration to meal planning for replenishing the muscles.

Under the coaches' close supervision, the athletes will go onto the field for a clarity session, so they know that they have good game understanding, before commencing the warm-up session. The many coaches work together to integrate the physical side of the game with its technical side, using GPS devices to track and monitor the player's performances. These are used to manipulate their chronic and acute loads –i.e. what happens over a 7 day window (the acute load) vs. what happens over a longer 28 day window (the chronic load). They've been working hard since the Australia Series in September, so after 3 months they have a good feel for how the players are tracking .

Tout knows that this women's rugby team aims to be the most professional amateurs they can be, trying to balance their rugby / home balance – they work hard and put in long hours to be able to play for their country and maintain the high standards set by their male colleagues, the All Blacks. What they put in in terms of preparedness cannot be underestimated – many have families, work and studies as well as playing rugby at an international level:

"It could be said that that is what defines the Black Fearns is their ability to achieve that work / life balance."
 

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We think that they had another secret weapon this weekend. Both Tanya and Gary were invited down to Dublin to provide sports massage to aid the team's recovery after beating England on Saturday and then ahead of their game against Ireland this Sunday past.

Black Fearn's Aldora Itunu & Eloise Blackwell spoke about the recent match against Ireland:

"The girls were pretty excited, and were switched on, ready for their last game...There was a huge amount of energy and the girls have been looking forward to this game for the whole tour – ready to get out and hopefully get that performance that we've been after."

We think that Tanya and Gary's experience, knowledge and professionalism helped them achieve that superb performance they were after!

#GrowTheGame #BlackFearns

If you want to benefit from the same quality of sports massage – and to be able to say that you go to the same people who work with world class athletes – then get in touch with TDR Academy and book your own #sportsmassage.  

TDR Academy Receives Another Customer Service Award

We're excited to share our latest good news! We've been awarded the WorldHost Customer Services Business award!!

A few weeks ago both myself and Gary took part in the WorldHost training scheme, which is part of the Star 2 programme -  a business support initiative funded by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. TDR Academy was one of only five local businesses from the borough who were awarded the WorldHost Customer Service Business award.

This course was delivered by  Lynda Willis from Lurgan's Customer Sense Training and Consultancy. She believes that:

“Going the extra mile for all customers is vital today and the course reinforced the importance of having a positive attitude towards customers in person, on the phone or via digital communications.  It doesn’t matter what industry you work in, customer service is essential to ensure repeat customers and online recommendations.“

The successful businesses gathered together to celebrate at Mallusk's Loft Restaurant and met with the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Thomas Hogg:

“I am delighted to present certificates to the five businesses that took part in the WorldHost customer service training. It demonstrates dedication and commitment to providing the highest standard of service to both visitors and local customers. This will help generate higher visitor numbers in the future, which will be a great economic benefit, not only to the businesses but, also to our Borough.”

The Star 2 initiative aims to help businesses improve customer service skills in a range of industries including retail, tourism, hospitality, leisure and passenger transport sectors.

We've always been proud of how friendly and customer-focused we are at TDR Academy, and now we have been awarded a certificate for our hard work over the years. It's here to remind ourselves to keep striving for excellent customer care and positive impressions.

We hope to see you soon to continue delivering a great service to you!

Ballyclare Business Awards - Results Are in!

You helped TDR Academy smile at the Ballyclare Business Awards!!

We asked you a while ago to show your support and vote for us at the Ballyclare Business Awards 2016 and now we'd like to say a very big thank you!

We are pleased to say that we were voted Runner Up in the 'Service with a Smile' category and we're proud as can be.
 
The awards are a great way to recognise businesses that support Ballyclare and who take pride in their products, services as well as our local area. We think that's us! The 'Service with a Smile' category is the biggest of the awards with over a thousand votes.

The awards night was organised by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Mayor Councillor Thomas Hogg was there to support the event with the successful businesses, pictured above with Tanya.

 So a big thank you once again!!

Now it's onwards into Spring and a busy time of year ahead!!

A Huge Welcome to Gary Wilson - our New Sports Massage Therapist!

TDR would like to say a huge welcome to Gary Wilson, who has joined the team and will be offering Sports Massage Therapy at TDR. Gary has an impressive background competing and training in cycling and triathlon events, including the Commonwealth Games in 1990 for triathlon!  So he has a great knowledge of what it takes to be an international athlete and also trying to cope with the usual day to day activities that all have an impact on your body.  Gary is trained to Level 3 in Sports Massage Therapy and is further continuing his studies and his training with TDR Academy.  You can learn more about Gary by checking out the About page.

Gary Wilson at the Newtownards Town Centre Race 2012

To welcome Gary on board, TDR is offering a few appointments at a greatly reduced rate!!  If you haven't already, like the TDR Academy facebook page or twitter page to be kept up-to-date with the offers as they are released, as appointments will be on a first come first served basis.  So if you are in need of a general sports massage and have just a few knots that need some tlc - contact Tanya to book in and let Gary help your recovery before your next training session or life event!!

Joseph Pilates Conference & Summer Break

As you know most of Northern Ireland are taking some, or all, of this week off for a summer break, and so are we! TDR Academy is now closed for the week and Tanya is off for the whole week and Gary is off for two weeks.

If you do need to get in touch, please send a message via your usual text, email or social media, but bear with us - it may be a day or two before we get back to you.

Tanya will be back for the summer schedule at TDR Academy - full steam ahead from the Monday 18th July.

While Tanya's off, she's heading over to the Isle of Man for a day at the Pilates Teacher Association conference. The conference will be looking at the history of Pilates and the man behind the movement - Joseph Pilates.

Joseph Pilates is seen by many as a genius for inventing apparatus and creating a system of movement with unique properties which integrate the body and mind and ultimately "spirit". He was a prisoner of war on the Isle of Man during World War I and spent much of his time there developing and perfecting these new exercises.

"Concentrate on the correct movements each time you exercise" - Joseph Pilates

JosephPilates moved to New York City and throughout the 1920s further developed his system of movement. In homage to this, the members of the Pilates Teacher Association have voted to look at both his work and three lineages - Kathleen Stanford Grant, Eve Gentry and Romana Krysanowska - through a series of rotating workshops and mat classes.

Kathryn Ross-Nash, a world renown Pilates instructor and taught by Romana, will be one of the instructors:

“My favourite thing in the world is to be able to teach the work I believe in so strongly, as my teachers so generously gave it to me,”

Tanya is looking forward to learning and consolidating and, most of all, placing herself under renowned Pilates instructors! While she's over the water, she'll also be taking part in yoga classes in a nearby Studio.

She'll come back renewed and reinvigorated, and you'll feel the benefit of it in your next class!

Enjoy your week off and we look forward to seeing you from the 18th July onwards!