Exercise classes based on psychological as well as physical exercise have been launched following a successful pilot scheme.

Developed by Wiggle and Giggle, a specialist developer of exercise classes for women, the programmes comprise a low-impact studio class for all ages and a pole dancing class to develop all-round stamina, strength and suppleness.

According to Michele Elizabeth, Wiggle and Giggle founder and managing director, the classes are set within a psychological context designed to help women explore their sense of femininity and sensuality.

She said: “It’s all about building women’s esteem and self-worth. We encourage women to feel good about themselves through the language we use and the nature of the exercises themselves.”

She describes the exercises as sensual, incorporating a lot of hip movements and designed to make women feel more positive about themselves.

Trialled in more than 20 public and private sector clubs across the country last year, Elizabeth says the response from participants has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Women don’t just feel better physically, they feel better about themselves both emotionally and psychologically,” she said.