Dear Miranda: Happy Anniversary. Well, it is actually my one year anniversary doing Classical Stretch. I have to write and let you know how much you have changed and improved my quality of life. I was so quite taken by your combination of stretching and strengthening incorporated into one routine that it has become a way of life for my exercise routine. One morning last October, while scrolling through television stations, I came upon your Classical Stretch work out on Connecticut Public Television and have to tell you I have done your routines every day (missed two) since then. I was always searching for the ‘perfect’ workout routine and I found it in Classical Stretch. The combination of strengthening, stretching, toning and aerobic built into one routine is a golden formula. I taught aerobics throughout my life and am a natural athlete but found the routine of aerobic activity and weight training was never quite enough. I have lengthened and strengthened my muscles. I am tone and look like I am in my thirties. (I’m 52) I lost 25 pounds of bulk and fat. I feel light and free in my limbs when I move. I can skip two stairs at a time, as I live on the third floor, and am so proud I am right behind my 21 year old son, who glances back at his mother… My goal is to become a certified Classical Stretch teacher and be able to help people not only look good but be healthy and strong because of your routines. I am going to be sending away for the information and begin to train to become a Classical Stretch teacher. I would love to reach out to the elderly community and hopefully make teaching my full-time job. Thank you for your wonderful life-changing programs and incredibly inspiring attitude and vision.

Margaret V., Connecticut

Dear Ms. Esmonde White, you are an inspiration. A friend told me about your 6 am. PBS program on our local station KEET. I’m an early riser and don’t have TIVO so your programs are a great incentive to start the day with your exercises. Have been stretching with you since last June. If I miss a day from over sleeping, which thankfully does not happen often, I feel cheated. Should be able to do the workouts on my own now, but you make the exercise so much fun that I look forward to your instructions each day. Have told several of my friends and they are enjoying your routines as well. Have lost 21 pounds and feel wonderful. No back pain & my posture and flexibility have improved. When you announced that you were 64 years old early last week in Jamaica, I was stunned. Thought you might be 45 or 50 at the most. I’m 68, and cannot bend or stretch the way you do, but you make me want to keep trying. Just wanted to thank you for your dedication to fitness.

Patti

This has been the best exercise/weight-loss program that I have experienced! When I was younger (early adulthood), I played sports and lost the most weight from my teen years. In middle-age it was more biking and walking, but due to injuries, etc. I have decreased those activities. Therefore the pounds and clothing sizes increased. Your program, however, has led to 18 lbs of weight-loss and thinning of thighs, butt and more! Thank you for your time and efforts to keep us “Age Reversing”! Sincerely,

Jean W. (a thankful 60’s senior!)

In December of 2014, I slipped on a slushy sidewalk and fell almost breaking my nose & breaking 2 teeth. That was an abrupt wake-up call telling me I did indeed need to lose weight & do the needful to regain balance. In January 2015, I happened to watch Miranda & students in the ‘Aging Backwards’ video on VT PBS. As I listened and watched the testimonials from students, I could relate & it resonated with me because years ago I took ballet stretch classes that always made me feel good. Since starting Essentrics (via ETV streaming, so I can do the program no matter where I am traveling) in 2015, I have lost over 60lbs, ‘lost’ 3 sizes (from 2XL to M), got rid of the atrophy in my back, hips and knees… and regained my balance with new strength. Over the past years, I have gifted ETV subscriptions to my daughter, sister and friends because of the great results I have realized. In November 2015, as a VT PBS member/donor, I was able to take part in a group session with Miranda, in Vermont. That’s when I learned about becoming a certified Essentrics instructor. Later that month after being inspired by Miranda, in person, I had the great fortune of having a private class with Gail Garceau, in Montreal. She is kind, patient, curious and encouraging. A perfect coach challenging me to do a bit more. So, I bought the manuals and CDs to learn how to be a Level 1 instructor. While I am not quite ready for certification I am still working on this goal! Now, I have 5 favorite programs that I use. Two are from season 9 (episodes 8 & 10), Muscle Release, Floor Toning, and Leg Sculpting with Sahra. THANK YOU MERCI BEAUCOUP Miranda, Sahra and most certainly Gail!

Patricia

In my youth I was very active. I danced, performed, did choreography and taught aerobics. I understand first hand the benefits of being strong and active. As time passed my exercise waned to the point where I had done nothing for nearly 6 months! I am so grateful that I found you one morning while channel surfing. It looked like an “easy” way to get moving again. I found the workouts not only challenging, but extremely effective. It has restored vitality in my body and my posture has never been better. People comment on my posture all the time now and I give the credit to “Classical Stretch”! I start my day with you all every morning! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

R L. Edmond, MD

I’ve been doing Classical Stretch for the past 17 years. I’m going to be 87 at the end of this month and no one believes me when I tell them my age. I attribute it to your exercise program and want to thank you for your help.

Mary G.

I have been doing Classical Stretch for a number of years. I am 56 years old. Today I was at a wellness fair and I stood on a piece of equipment to check balance and they were to tell me what risk range I would be in for falling. Twice I had to stand for 15 seconds holding the spot in the middle of the “bullseye”. It waivered a little bit and all I kept thinking was hold my core! My score was .8. The woman seemed surprised and asked my age and then told me I was in the 17-35 yr. range, which was .07-2.2. Because of stimulating my balance sensors like you teach us, I did remarkably well! Thank you!

Joan M.

I’ve been doing Essentrics for over a year now and have seen a tremendous change in my body. I’m stronger and leaner and taller, which is a lot since I’m 5 feet tall, and the best is that I always sit up straight now. I just started Season 9 and am loving the challenge of harder workouts. About a month ago, I took an Alvin Ailey dance class – it was 1 1/2 hours, and we learned choreography from Revelations. I was able to do the class! I was a sweaty mess after, but I was so proud of myself for being able to do the class and feel like a dancer. I’m grateful to you and Essentrics because I couldn’t have taken the class without you. The strength it takes to do the Essentrics workouts, along with the dance moves I’ve learned made me feel like an Ailey dancer for that hour and a half. I love doing your workouts – the current one is always my favorite, until I do the next one! I will continue doing the workouts! With much gratitude and please come to New York City to teach!

Anonymous 

I started doing Classical Stretch after seeing Miranda on PBS in December 2014. I was facing surgery in January of 2015 and was concerned about the effects on my waistline in particular. Having had several surgeries for bladder problems and vaginal prolapse I was aware that after each surgery my abdominal muscles seemed to weaken. My daughter purchased Season 7 for me for my birthday in January 2015 and I have continued the program since. At first the abdominal exercises were quite difficult but now seem easy. I find that every spring when I get out my bike I am able to ride up hills better that I could prior to Classical Stretch. My swimming has become stronger and I can complete laps faster than I used to. I am now 72 years old and still work part time. I look forward to staying fit for many more years, thanks to Classical Stretch.

Margaret

Many thanks to Miranda & Sahra for all of their helpful sessions in Classical stretch/ Essentrics. I am 73 years young & feel so wonderful as I participate in this form of exercise. I began a couple of years ago when I read Aging Backwards & did the exercises in it. I very much agreed with Miranda’s philosophy of gentle stretching movements bringing better health for all ages. Then, I found the mini- workouts with Miranda & Sarah on YouTube, so participated in those for several months. Now, I am getting up at 6:00am weekday mornings to exercise with Miranda on WSRE television program. I am presently ordering my own DVD’s so I can exercise anytime! I am encouraging others including my hubby to join me. Thank you so much for you help in keeping us healthy. Blessings!

Anonymous

I have Type 2 Diabetes and I’m working to keep it in remission through exercise, diet and being very sensible about my lifestyle. I love all aspects of your exercise-anti-aging regimes. I began working with your programs on Essentrics TV here in South Carolina. And, at 80 years of age, I can tell you that I find these exercises easy to follow and they make me feel so young. My body is already responding to this stretching, bending, working out. I miss that FREE feeling when I don’t do these routines on a daily basis. Thanks for your help, wonderful information and teachings.

Victoria

I would just like to take this opportunity to thank you. I discovered your program, Classical Stretch, quite by accident on my PBS stations in Los Angeles. I started with the program in March of this year and have done it almost every day since. I am definitely feeling the difference in my body. I am 72 and still have a long way to go I am sure, but I wanted to let you know that I feel your programs are helping me to feel better as well as look better and I really appreciate it and you! Thanks again.

Patrice

I discovered Miranda Esmonde-White and her programs on television while traveling. Being a person who has exercised for my whole life, I quickly tuned in, especially since I am now retired and getting older. I had injured a large muscle in my thigh last year which had not healed, so I tried your videos on You Tube. I was hooked on the first day. I now am streaming the Essentrics TV and don’t miss much. Since early September I have faithfully done the stretching each morning, only missing a couple of days in these past several months. I’m thrilled with the changes that have taken place in my posture and strength. My thigh muscle has healed, so I am no longer limited by that pain. To me, my story is one of great success because I can turn my nose up at subtle and not-so-subtle messages that I am getting old and need to slow down. I am very hopeful to be able to keep up living well thanks to my discovery of your programs. All of the people who provide the Aging Backwards programs are my heroes. I am very grateful for this gift. Happy New Year to you all!

Pamela

I have been doing Classical Stretch on PBS at 5:30 a.m. out of Denver for as long as I can remember. Was thinking at 80 now, if I should stop. Had a mild back problem and went to a Dr. of Physical Therapy. He kept saying, “You have an amazing body. Do whatever you want for your age.” He hadn’t seen anything like this except from an instructor my age. Thanks to Miranda, I will continue to get up at 5 to join her. I am so happy that this effort has paid off. I have always wanted to go to Mexico but decided I can go with her every day.

Jo-an

For about 5 years I had been doing ‘extreme’ workouts on video. They seemed to be the only thing that worked for me to get in shape aerobically and build muscle relatively fast. I enjoyed working hard also so it seemed a good fit. However, I refused to do the stretching workouts included in the series because they hurt and the stretching exercises made me sweat and stress. I finally got to the point that I only wanted to do a 25-minute workout 3 or 4 times a week and still no stretching to speak of. This last year, my back got tighter and tighter, my glutes would also tighten up, and my feet hurt when I walked. I couldn’t be in a store for very long before I had to leave because of the pain of walking. I thought it had to do with getting old. I went to the doctor for muscle relaxants for my back at one point. I bought a new mattress. Then one day, I saw the pain relief workout video Miranda was talking about on PBS. I thought I couldn’t really workout in a rote way like I had been and Essentrics probably wasn’t going to get me in shape, but at least I could find out what this pain free workout entailed. I liked the pain relief workouts and have evolved to doing Classical Stretch workout nearly every day. Well, my feet don’t hurt anymore. My back doesn’t hurt. I have less stress. My clothes fit better. My shoulders had always been tight and I had been to physical therapy for a slightly torn rotator cuff during the 5 years of the extreme workouts. My shoulders are releasing and my posture has improved. To my delight, the muscle chains have responded quickly since the beginning and I’ve learned so much about how the muscles are connected. All that pain was from overworking the muscles and not stretching! This way of working out, I tell people, is a much more enlightened way to exercise. I love it. Thank you for educating me on how the body works and responds. I used to stretch (I guess instinctively) by doing several stretches and not holding stretches until I was told by fitness experts I needed to hold the pose for at least 30 seconds to get results. Now I know from experience with Essentrics, it is so beneficial to only go to the end of the stretch and then come out and to be gentle. I’ve done also yoga, tai chi, aikido, and kung fu in the past and I love the Classical Stretch/Essentrics so much as it seems so pure and simple without needing to learn complicated names of poses/moves. I went to the office last week, and (most of us work from home) and saw people I had not seen for 10-20 years. So many seemed smaller and hunched over, contracted, and I felt so grateful to have found Essentrics. I really cannot express my appreciation enough for what you have developed to help people stay young and healthy. Someone told me, asking about my son, if I had any grandchildren on the way, and when I said not yet, she said, “Well you are too young to be a grandmother.” I replied, “No I’m not!”. She said, “Well, you look too young to be a grandmother.” There’s an endorsement for Essentrics right there. Thanks so much!

Jana B

I am 74 years old and have been doing the exercises for about two years and I have grown 1/2 inch they told me at the doctor’s office. I work full time and have a lot of energy. And I like the way my body looks. Also, no pain.

Louise Dubberke

I am 75 and have been doing Classical Stretch daily for years. I feel it is helpful to me as I have Parkinson’s. I especially like the format of season 10 because I can choose the standing workouts to be sure to work on my balance. I love having the ocean in the background, too. The feet work on season nine and ten have helped a lot. My doctor is always so pleased with me. The Parkinson’s Advocates website now lists Classical Stretch on its resources.

Thank you,

Michael

I’m 88 years old, nearing 89 and I’ve been following you off an on,mostly on, since your inception in 1999. I’m still quite active: I swim 4 days a week, participate in your program in the afternoons. I also garden in the gardening season. I can still take off my sweater as you demonstrate without problems.

Take care

Ian R.

I am 78 years old and discovered Essentrics about 8 or 9 years ago. I have done the program’s fairly regularly since then. They have kept me in good enough shape to live at altitude and continue hiking, biking and most important skiing. Even though my muscles have aged I can still perform, I was a dancer once (amateur) until my height dictated male roles so I appreciate the muscle usage information. Recently, I was in a store and a middle aged man told me I was very attractive and had excellent posture (I assumed he was a physical therapist or something as I have all my wrinkles and white hair).

Ann W.

I am a private voice teacher and have been using Kinetic Awareness, Feldenkreis and Alexandertechniques with my students for over 25 years. I’m not sure when ClassicalStretch came on PBS but I was taken with it immediately. I purchased the DVD’s and began to exercise at least twice a week… and any time I wasn’t teaching Idid the TV series. I have over the years bought every season from 6 on and have continually shared them with my students. They have made a huge difference in how those students, who work with them, carry themselves. They are better singers because of Classical Stretch. I have also given a whole series to friends for Christmas. They have become believers too. I am now 70 years old and teach about 45 hours a week and take care of two young grandchildren one night and day every week. I wasbeginning to have some foot and hip problems as well as aching at night but each time I did my CS, they went away. I just reordered Seasons 8, 9 and 10. Most of them are already out on loan except for Season 10 which I dofaithfully. I took the 30 day challenge and am feeling strong and flexible. I now have to do CS every day. It is a perfect foil to a busy day. I feel fit and energized!

Thanks you so much!

Anne D.

As a senior citizen I really like the Classical Stretch series, even on mornings that it is hard to get going, once I do the workout (am working through series 10 right now) I always feel better both physically and mentally. I like everything about the program, from the exercises, music, the scenery – love it!! My thanks to all that make the cd’s available for us.

Happy in Iowa…

Anonymous 

I just finished reading “Aging Backwards”. I am so inspired by the reality and truth. Not everyone is willing to give the proper credit for straightening out ones thoughts that become scattered when you are so passionate about something. Essentrics/classical stretch has been a gift in my life. My Grandma Shorty believed you needed to keep moving. She did Tai Chi at the senior center and kept kicking her legs in the nursing home even after she was forced into a diaper and wheelchair because it was “easier for the help to take care of her”. She passed at 98 years old and only lasted that long because she kept fighting to move. I hope I never get forced into a wheel chair to make some else’s life easier and can move freely as long as possible. Thank you for creating this program that helped me so much with two herniated discs and feeling my age and younger. Rather then how much older I felt.

Veronica P

You mention in your posture workout that you get emails from people saying that they are taller than they were before doing your Stretch set of exercises for posture. I don’t know yet if I am any taller, but I do know that my posture is greatly improved after a couple of months of the Posture Routine.

What I love best about it is the feeling that I look good nowadays while walking. Before I would catch a glimpse of myself in a window, and I was always distressed at what I saw…dowager’s hump developing and leading with my stomach out front!! Better posture means I look good in my clothes again too. Dresses are flattering!

I am 72. I exercise all the time (swim, lift weights, yoga), I have no health problems, and stable weight at a size 6…so things are good. But the older bones were beginning to be my nemesis. Now, I have more muscular control, and can see what a difference that makes.

I was becoming pretty discouraged because one cannot just “straighten up!” “Good posture takes strength,” as you so rightly say. I am definitely gaining that strength to a noticeable degree, and for that I thank you very much.

Warmest best,

Michael

Thank you, Miranda and company, for sharing this essential program on KCET, Los Angeles. We started, online using your free programs, then ordered a DVD. After less than 2 weeks, working with the Classic Stretch (Back to Jamaica) DVD, we feel so much younger. Our strength and flexibility have increased and we can accomplish things we thought we could not any longer accomplish – simple things, like walking with a youthful bounce, reaching for anything without pain, getting into and out of the car with ease – and finding relief from “maladies” we thought would accompany us into old age. We are in our mid 60s and this simple daily program has given us the gift of energy, as well. We are vibrant with energy – and it has all happened so fast! It is difficult to believe that the simple stretches can do so much. And – we look forward to each day’s workout… Thank you!

Steve Robison

I had a recent appointment with my Orthopaedic Spine doctor. She compared my X-rays from 9 years ago with an MRI from this year… and was blown away! She asked if I had some magic youth elixir. She couldn’t believe I was 57. Looking at the MRI she said she was looking at a 30 yr. old back. She said I had somehow managed to reverse the aging of the spine and asked how I did it. I mentioned I had been doing Classical Stretch for about 7-8 months. She again mentioned how blown away she was and she just couldn’t believe it! Thank you for your program. I love it and appreciate what you have done to help myself and so many others.

Best regards,

Holly

I ordered and read this book and was so impressed and encouraged by Miranda’s wisdom about aging that I am giving copies to my family and friends that I love and care for. I cannot think of a better gift for someone than the gift of strength and flexibility with age. To be given the hope- and indeed promise of being able be in control over how we age is priceless – I for one, “do not want to go gentle into that good night” and I do not want to be so afraid of growing old as I start to feel my once strong, limber body start succumbing to osteoporosis. Thank you, Miranda, for giving me the ability and power to control my aging process. In the past few months I have been doing your program on PBS and the differences I feel in my body are nothing short of miraculous. I am sure I am one of thousands that have called you a miracle worker.

Sally Nims

I have been doing Classical Stretch for a number of years.

I am 56 years old. Today I was at a wellness fair and I stood on a piece of equipment to check balance and they were to tell me what risk range I would be in for falling. Twice I had to stand for 15 seconds holding the spot in the middle of the “bullseye”. It waivered a little bit and all I kept thinking was hold my core! My score was .8. The woman seemed surprised and asked my age and then told me I was in the 17-35 yr. range, which was .07-2.2. Because of stimulating my balance sensors like you teach us, I did remarkably well!

I did what I could to promote your program! Thank you!

Joan M

I wish to thank you for your expertise and ability to demonstrate these wonderful exercises. I have been doing them since 2006 on a weekly basis and I am now 63 years old and swim a mile a day. I contribute my youthful appearing body to your workouts that have keep me agile and strong. My husband and I are from America (Colorado), however when I began using your DVD we lived in London and now live in Abu Dhabi.
I love them because it doesn’t matter where I am, I can exercise without excuse. When I first began, I had chronic left shoulder pain and now I have no chronic pain. Whew! I am convinced that sticking to the program is what created the disappearance of that awful pain that had been with me for several years. I love doing the exercises (I have your 2 segments of arms and abdomen and legs and butt) and by doing both segments get a great daily (3-4) times a week feeling while doing them and afterwards. It brightens my day and I feel more fully engaged with life.

Many thanks,

Carolyn

I’m adding my comments to the hundreds, or more, emails you’ve received over the years letting you know how much your classical stretch routines have helped change their bodies. I began watching your program on my local public TV station in 2007 with season 4. Even though I was years younger than today I found it quite a challenge to do some of the routines. But I stuck with it several times a week and progressed with additional series, buying each one since season 4 so that I would never be without my regular stretch routine should the station drop your program. They did recently and I’m glad to have access to all the DVD’s including season 9 which I ordered today.

In the past seven years you have indeed become a welcome face and exercise friend on a daily basis. My day isn’t complete until I’ve spent those 24 minutes with you. Late in 2011 I was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of uterine cancer. I underwent a radical hysterectomy and 4 1/2 mos. of chemotherapy. During that time I didn’t have the energy to do my daily routines, but did get back to them as soon as better health prevailed. By July of 2012 I was back in “full swing” with you and taking my DVD’s on vacation to our cabin in Oregon which I do every summer.

Even with a diagnosis of some spinal stenosis in spring 2011, I have never found the classical stretch exercises to hinder my progress and I believe they have actually helped keep me from further degeneration. Today, I am close to 2 years free of cancer cells and feeling terrific at age 70. No one who knows me thinks I’m even in my 60’s. Besides some good parental genes, I’m sure the ‘young look’ has much to do with my daily exercise routine which enables me to have good posture and balance, walk with ease and pop up from a seated position. My gratitude for your dedication to helping women feel and look better as they age is more than I can put into words. Even if the classical stretch series had not been photographed in such stunning vacation locals, I would still be making exercising with you a top priority in my life.

THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU.

Elaine S.

You may not realize it, but you’ve become a really good friend of mine, and I visit with you several times a week. I started Classical Stretch years ago in my early thirties with the full body volume one workout. I must admit, I wasn’t hooked. It didn’t grab me at first, and sadly sat in the closet collecting dust for years. Then two years ago I was able to attend a live Essentrics Class, and I fell in love. From there, I dug out that old Classical Stretch DVD, and added it into my regular workout rotation. I’ve suffered from numerous autoimmune disease from my mid-twenties (I’m now 39). I have really bad fibromyalgia, and arthritis in my knees as well. This spring I was diagnosed with PCOS, and Pre-Diabetes. I had been gaining weight uncontrollably, and was in so much pain I could barely get out of bed. All thru this past year I kept doing Classical Stretch no matter how tired I was, or how much pain I was in. It always made me feel better( I have most of your DVD’s). I also changed my diet due to the Diabetes/PCOS. Since then, I’ve lost over 30lbs since June 2013 which is the most consistent weight loss I’ve seen in years! I feel SO MUCH YOUNGER! Thanks to Classical Stretch, and Essentrics, I’m changing the shape of my body, and increasing both my strength, and flexibility every day! I have way more energy than I’ve had in years. The best part is…I have no more fibromyalgia pain, and my arthritic knees are doing so much better. I’ve gained two inches in height in the last two years from consistently doing your workouts, and my IBS-C is a thing of the past! I talk about you everywhere I go, and to whomever will listen. I’ve got my sister doing your workouts now as well. She loves the Essentrics!

I’ve given away your DVDs to multiple family members as gifts. I truly believe Classical Stretch, and Essentrics are the very best exercises on the planet. I love your last three seasons on DVD, and do those workouts religiously. I also love the re-release of your Essentrics DVD. I have, and do, all your thirty minute workouts for both Classical Stretch, and Essentrics.

I cannot thank you, and your daughter, enough for being such good, and dear friends. You’ve helped me tremendously to gain my health, and life back. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Keep making more DVD’s. I will continue to buy them, do them, and spread the word of the restorative healing powers of Classical Stretch, and Essentrics. I’ll be 40 next spring. My new mantra is “40, Fit, and Fabulous”. I know Classical Stretch will help get me there, and keep me there.

Cheers,

Kiesha

I can’t thank you enough for what you all do. I am a 43 year old mother of a 4 and 6 year old. Having my children later in my 30’s took a big toll on my back and hips. I thought I would have to live with it. One morning I turned on the TV and switched the channel to the a.m. news but accidentally landed on PBS and your show. On a whim, I followed along. It changed my life as well as my body. I have done some yoga and have some exercise DVDs. But they either left me feeling like a hopeless beginner or exacerbated my problems thus leading me to give up and start over. Much like a yo-yo diet. The Esmonde technique is so different. I now follow you twice a day! And look forward to that time. This is revolutionary for me. I experience immediate relief in my back and hips. And my posture! I stand straight am stronger all over and feel great. I love that I can stretch and strengthen all at once. I have told everyone I know about your program. My confidence has led to a better diet and I can play like a kid with my kids. Because of you, I am a more complete and satisfied person.

Thank you again.

Anna

I feel I know you. I have been doing classical for about 6 months. I think I have the beginning of a success story going. I just turned sixty-six years old. In the last few years, I have gone from 5′ 8 1/2″ tall to 5′ 6 1/4″ tall due to osteoporosis and compression fractures. Posture has always been a problem for me. Though no one is saying my posture is better, I feel from the inside that it is. I am much more aware of my posture, abs, and the feel of my body. I have much more energy. I feel more fit. My husband says I am playing better tennis. I am hoping very much to impact the shrinking. I am feeling the beneficial effects of Classical Stretch much more than I have with any other exercise program (yoga, circuit training, etc.) I so like the teaching that goes with the workout in terms of targeting muscle groups. I feel motivated to do Classical Stretch everyday. The fact that it is only a little over 20 minutes makes it very managable.

Thank you so much for this gift.

Nancy

I have been doing your workouts religiously since December 17, 2012 on PBS (WQPT). One of my friends told me about your show. I have been diagnosed with degenerative joint disorder in my knees quite a number of years ago. Since doing your program, I have significantly reduced the joint pain in my knees. I cannot tell you how great that feels! I actually look forward to getting up at 5:30 a.m. so that I can work out with you at 6:00 before heading for work.

I am 59 and feel 29. And I absolutely love the backgrounds you have selected for your workouts, along with the music. I can’t believe how fast that 25 minutes go by!

Thanks for being there for all of us. You such an inspiration!!

Sara S.

Thank you so much for changing my life. I stumbled on to your program on PBS and have enjoyed so many improvements in my body.

I had recently told my 90 year old mother that I did not want to live to be her age because at the age of 60 I already had too many aches and pains. This seems strange because I am very athletic and participate in multitudes of sports. But my hips and back were so tight and painful that waking up and getting going was proving to be more and more dreadful.

Now, after one month of Miranda, I am sleeping better, feel relatively pain free, and can face living into an old age, which my DNA will most probably mandate. You are a revelation and I look forward to taking you into my very senior years.

Lynn W

I’m a 62-year old woman who has recently been diagnosed with bursitis of the left hip. I looked up bursitis on the Internet, and saw recommendations of resting and icing the affected area. I was sick of limping around (I had waited about 6 months before going to the doctor), so I decided to rest the heck out of it and get better faster.

Well, resting made it worse! I felt about 100 years old and couldn’t walk around my own house without leaning against things for support. I got frustrated and went back to gentle exercise, trying to work around the sore joint. After about 5 days of Classical Stretch, I was a new woman. I cannot only walk without limping, I have much more energy and have stopped even thinking about my hip. It’s like a miracle. After doing my Classical Stretch every morning, I immediately ice down my left hip, and within 10-15 min., I’m good to go for the rest of the day.

I will never totally give up exercise again; I don’t think we are meant to rest. No matter what the issue, Classical Stretch is gentle enough to do, and I have never become injured doing CS.

Thank you, Miranda!

Mary B.

I’m 63 and recovering from polymyalgia rheumatica, which left me very sore and stiff and barely able to walk. While at home from work one day I stumbled upon Classical Stretch and fell in love with it. I’m stronger and much more limber and feel like I’ve turned back the clock!

Ceci L.
Media Publishing Specialist

My wife and I purchased the 2 DVD’s of season 6 in mid December… currently we are on our 5th time thru the 30 episodes…so we have missed few days.

We are 65 years old…in the past springs I dreaded the flowerbed and yard work because of back and sciatica pain – being in not so good shape… Doing classical stretch since December – I did some heavy landscaping yesterday… and am absolutely amazed to how good I feel…no back pain…no aches… got up this am and did another episode… my wife has said often: “finally an exercise program that works” thank you…thank you…thank you … Miranda… we appreciate your workouts so much…

George and Marty K.

I am almost 82 years old, have exercised most of my life at home, over the years, but now it was a little difficult for me to do all that I once did and became very lax. Then I found you, God bless you. I have been doing the stretching exercises with you most days at 6:00 a.m on PBS in Cedar Knolls, N.J. (when I don’t oversleep). I am so very impressed with your exercises that I have been bugging my family and friends to do it with you, to the point that my family is angry at me, but my friends thank me constantly for informing them about you. But nevertheless, I purchased your series for my son’s 60th birthday present, as he recently found out that he has Prostate Cancer, stage 1 and was hoping these would be helpful. I tell strangers about your program. I think you are marvellous. I was getting the senior slump, and was upset about that, and since doing your stretching program, I have found, I stand taller, and have much more flexibility, strength and balance. I am almost able to grab my foot to lift my legs.

Thank you.

Dorothy Z.

I’m just starting this amazing program and feel younger, stronger, and free of pain. I’m an ‘older’ senior, and find this program is making me feel more alive, both physically and mentally.

Betty

I get up and do Classical Stretch 3 mornings per week on TV and my wife and I do another session 3-4 times per week. We feel this keeps us flexible, limber to the point we are more active and feel younger than most people our age.

Jim

I started last year, and here are the results: I’m stronger, and I have more range of motion, less pain, and more energy. I can’t thank you enough. My 70th birthday is three weeks away, and I’m planning to do a cartwheel to celebrate!

Mary

I have been doing Essentrics now for almost a year and a half and it works wonderfully. I can reach now some 7 centimeters further and that is very good for me, because I am quite small. I like to do some more to keep my strength and flexibility. I am Now 76 and I love the exercise.

Rachel

I worked out consistently from the time I was 25. At first, I was a runner, then substituted various aerobic classes as running became painful, lifted weights and about 10 years ago started practicing yoga. As I’ve aged, it has become harder to be consistent with the old routines due to arthritis and muscle pain. My cycle would be: aerobic workout, injury, rest and recovery, repeat. This winter I discovered Classical Stretch and Essentrics. This technique has given me a way in to pain-free consistency, working my muscles while feeling GOOD! I can add in long walks and have the strength and stamina for everyday activities without injury. I also have osteoporosis so I’m highly motivated to take care of my bones and muscles! I’m a happy fan!

Mary G

I have been practicing Classical Stretch for a year now, and the changes to my body are just amazing! While I ran in my 40s and used a rebounder trampoline in my 50s and into my 60s, nothing compares to the quality of the workout that I receive with Classical Stretch! I also love Miranda’s encouragement and explanation of why the various moves in the program work. I am grateful to Miranda for helping me to live an active and productive life which I hope will take me well into my 70s and beyond. Thank you so much!

Ruth G.

I just want to say thank you so much for empowering me with movements and knowledge that allow me to receive my optimal health. My cells are regenerating filled with all your positive energy!

Kyra A.

Spent many years doing various other exercises and only started exercising with Miranda’s videos about 2 years ago. Took me about 6 months doing routines faithfully to realize how good I felt. Only wish had been doing them 10 years ago. I do not miss a day. Take no prescribed medications but do take some vitamins. I am a very young 82. Thank you Miranda. You are really on to something.

Ann C

As I age towards my 70’s, I want to keep my mobility limber and rid my body of a few aches and pains that seem to hit me again and again! 2018 is our big trip to visit our son who now resides in New Zealand. I want to go pain and mobility free! I am enjoying the challenge you have going on at the moment and will carry on after this challenge, I have 3 seasons on hand, so it should get me through 3 months, then will repeat. I live in the Okanagan, the southern interior of British Columbia where there is no one that teaches Classical Stretch, however, when we make the trip to Victoria BC, I always attend Rosemary Mason’s classes. I love them!

Anita Pearson

Hi Essentrics Community,
I am 62 years old and in great shape. I have been doing the stretch routines of Miranda Esmonde White on and off since I was 46 years old. In addition, I walk my dog every day from 2 to 4 miles depending on weather conditions. I am very flexible and owe this to Miranda. Thank you! I think this challenge is a great way to start the New Year and get all of us energized.

Sincerely with hopes of peace and blessings for all of you,

Ann

Your programs are FABULOUS! My husband is 74 and I’m 67 and it’s exactly the kind of program we both need. No weights, just the weight of our bodies. I’ve lost 10 lbs, my A1C is down from 6.9 to 6.5 and my fasting blood sugars are almost normal! Of course I’m eating mostly a plant based diet and lean meats. But you are a joy in our life! Thank you for continuing your great program and the education you bring with it!

Gail D

I supplement my specialized Parkinsons en mouvement dance classes, which take place during the week, with the excellent Essentrics Aging Backwards classes on Saturdays. I enjoy the challenge level and variety; I never feel pressured to push myself too hard. At the same time, I always get a good work out and immediately feel the benefits. Many thanks to Meg and the other instructors for helping to keep us on the move.

Kim Bartlett

I have been doing Essentrics and Classical Stretch for 2 months consistently and I have to tell you how much I love it. I have tried many forms of exercise, and feel like essentrics is what I have been searching for. I am 64 years old and have never seen such rapid results. Not only do I look and feel better, lighter and younger, but I actually look forward to working out. It has blown my mind and frankly I have become a bit of a fanatic, recommending it to many friends and family who are now as obsessed as I am! I have always said in my ‘next life’ I am coming back as a ballerina!

Connie H

I want you to know I am absolutely thrilled with Classical Stretch and have been doing the DVD’s for about a year. I am doing 2 of them now most every day. I purchased your ETV membership as I wanted to keep at it on the road. It is a wonderful program and I love the selection available that I can choose from. I am a VERY happy customer and am amazed how helpful it is even though I have rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and osteoporosis! I am strong, in shape, maintaining good flexibility and weigh 108 to 112 lbs. I used to workout 1 to 1.5 hrs. to maintain fitness and was getting injured to boot. This is a huge improvement for me and my doctors ask how I keep in such good shape for a 58-year-old woman. I hope I can write you every year with such success, thanks to you!

Mary Ann L.

I don’t normally send in reviews or testimonials but I had to make an exception for Essentrics. I happened to see Miranda on our local PBS station with her show on Aging Backwards last March (2015). And, even though, Classical Stretch is the longest running fitness show on PBS — it’s not shown on our local station so I had no background on any of the exercises . Needless to say at age 62 , the idea of aging backwards holds great appeal ! So, I purchased and read the book Aging Backwards and then decided I needed to try the exercises too. I’m much better at doing almost any new task when I can mimic the process so , the videos (ETV streaming) made perfect sense to me . I started initially with doing the exercises about 3 times a week and I definitely felt great each time I completed a session . The 25 minute time frame is perfect for me — I can always find 25 minutes in my day and doing them at my leisure at home –PERFECT! At the end of most of the videos Miranda says “And you should be doing these every day !” Well — guess she got me because by May of 2015 I made the decision to do a workout everyday and I’ve stuck to that for almost a year! I have become almost pain free everywhere with an amazing ability to stretch , turn , twist, in ways I haven’t done in years. And, best of all when I’m finished with my exercises for the day — I feel fabulous ! I have tried sooooo many different workouts over the years and though I’ve kept active I’ve NEVER liked any of them . I just know that to be healthy that we need to keep moving and Thank You Miranda Esmonde-White for letting me find a way to do that with a smile .

With Warmest Regards,
Linda C
Salem, MA

I have completed a full year doing your workouts 3-6 times per week by following on PBS. This perfectly compliments my regular resistance/HIIT workouts. Just as Miranda says, my body is totally realigned. I am wearing clothes that I bought over 20 years ago. Now at age 62, I am proof that you can age backwards if you just give Miranda’s program a chance (especially the killer plies).

Mark

I’m 58 years old and this is the first time I have exercised 30 days in a row! In fact, I’m on day 33 in a row now. I even enjoyed the 2 hour long workouts; something else I haven’t done before. I’m making steady progress, and love I how feel after the workout! I really appreciated the program being set out for me. It can be hard to choose from all the options each day. With the 30 day challenge in January 2016, I felt that I was getting a balanced program through each week. I look forward to the next challenge! As Miranda says, “See you again tomorrow!”

Ginny D.

I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Essentrics Health Challenge. I didn’t miss a day, and I enjoyed working through the schedule on your website. In November, I treated myself to most of the Essentrics and Classical Stretch DVDs, knowing that this is the workout that will keep me aging backwards for the rest of my life. I want to benefit from all of Miranda’s and Sahra’s wisdom, as they explain not only the techniques and proper form, but also the why’s behind them. I will be able to turn to Miranda and Sahra to make me feel better whenever I experience an ache or a pain–and even better, to prevent injuries and pain. I look forward to my daily workouts with Miranda and Sahra, who have also made me a daily world traveler (Montreal, Jamaica, Mexico!). Thank you for the wonderful workouts with flowing, beautiful movements. I am by no means perfect at doing them, but I look forward to improving as I work hard on my form every day. (No cheating on movements here!) I can’t imagine the work that went into creating, not only the foundation of these workouts, but also the variety of movements, clear explanations, beautiful settings, and complementary music. Miranda and Sahra are a pleasure to watch and are wonderful mentors. Thank you all–Miranda, Sahra, and everyone who supports them–for helping me preserve my good health and fitness in such a pleasurable way. I am truly grateful and appreciative.

Best wishes and love,

Linda.

I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the Essentrics Health Challenge. I didn’t miss a day, and I enjoyed working through the schedule on your website. In November, I treated myself to most of the Essentrics and Classical Stretch DVDs, knowing that this is the workout that will keep me aging backwards for the rest of my life. I want to benefit from all of Miranda’s and Sahra’s wisdom, as they explain not only the techniques and proper form, but also the why’s behind them. I will be able to turn to Miranda and Sahra to make me feel better whenever I experience an ache or a pain–and even better, to prevent injuries and pain. I look forward to my daily workouts with Miranda and Sahra, who have also made me a daily world traveler (Montreal, Jamaica, Mexico!). Thank you for the wonderful workouts with flowing, beautiful movements. I am by no means perfect at doing them, but I look forward to improving as I work hard on my form every day. (No cheating on movements here!) I can’t imagine the work that went into creating, not only the foundation of these workouts, but also the variety of movements, clear explanations, beautiful settings, and complementary music. Miranda and Sahra are a pleasure to watch and are wonderful mentors. Thank you all–Miranda, Sahra, and everyone who supports them–for helping me preserve my good health and fitness in such a pleasurable way. I am truly grateful and appreciative.

Best wishes and love,

Linda

Just a few lines to say how happy I am to have found Classical Stretch. I start each day with Classical Stretch. Over the years I’ve done tai chi (10yrs.) Go to the Y for for seniors, but always felt I was missing something. I also introduced my son to the program (he is a bus driver and suffers from back pain).

Bonita

I’m sure you all hear this all day long……… I’m so thankful for the classical stretch team: I gratefully thank you almost every day! Your program is how I manage chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and stay in shape to ride my sport bike (at 45!!) every day, without medication.

Alicia G.

I took the 30 day challenge as a way to get more familiar with Essentrics/Classical Stretch. I’ve done a little of it off and on over the last couple of years when I could catch the show on PBS. I got the DVD Aging Backwards, with the four routines and the 60 minute total body workout. I am 56 years old, active, have been doing yoga for several years and I am a runner. I never seem to be able to stick with the yoga daily though, often going weeks without doing it. I have recently slowed down on the running too, as I have had some hip and knee aches and pains. I loved the feeling I got from doing the essentrics workouts over the 30 days. My posture has improved, and it has helped to shape my midsection more, as well as strengthen my quads and loosen up my hips.

Linda G

I am 69 and have been doing Classical Stretch for several years. I consider myself lucky that my local PBS station airs Classical stretch during the work week at 6 a.m. I also have a library of both Classical Stretch and Essentrics dvds. There is nothing like crawling out of bed, turning on the television and “going to it”. I am ready to meet the day. No sudden miracles took place, but there is nothing better than feeling younger than a number and being able to move with strength, grace and agility.

Thank you, Miranda and Sahra.

Diane M.

I have done yoga for 30 plus years. Now I do Essentrics Aging Backwards exercises and they seem good for me. Arthritis is an issue but I can do all the movements Miranda demonstrates. It’s great! Miranda’s personality is an added Plus! The lessons feel like One on One.

Marilyn H.

I love the 30 day challenges as it is a bite I can handle! One thing I have noticed is that my core strength is better. I can now carry a laundry basket full of clothes up and down stairs. My flexibility and strength are much improved.

Jane M

Last year I was on a ski trip and noticed my body was getting tired quickly on the Colorado slopes. Being 62 and a grandmother , it was chalked up to my age and getting older . However, over the summer I started doing the Classical Stretch tapes (seasons 4 and 8). In Sept I combined my daily work outs with Sahra s Full Body Toning DVD twice a week. Never have I felt more fit ! I can keep up with my grandchildren who are all under 8. This winter I took 4 of them skiing. While they were in ski school, I returned to the slopes again. No sore muscles. No winded lady needing to stop to catch her breath. Thank you Essentrics Team for giving me my best time on the slopes in 40 years. I will sing your program’s success to anyone!

Jane E.,
St Louis Mo

Hello Miranda!

I am a sixty-four year old woman who has been using your program for the last year. Last December I had been randomly scrolling with my remote when I happened upon a PBS interview with you. I was attracted to your philosophy of lengthening and strengthening through movement, and I decided to purchase a DVD. Since last January I have done my best to engage in the program nearly every day, and I must tell you how pleased I am. I appreciate everything about it. It is effective, and I can honestly say that my muscles and joints are both stronger and more flexible. I have noticed that I am stronger when I take my walks, when I dance at a wedding, and even while I shovel snow. I am amazed because I have not felt this strong in years. Your program is convenient and I can do it nearly anywhere because I don’t need a lot of space or anything other than a chair. I like that it is concise. I can benefit my entire body in what I consider a relatively brief session, and even if I am tired or busy, I can still usually fit it into my day. My body looks better too. I am not overweight, so I was not concerned about dropping pounds, yet I find that I am firmer and tighter. So, I’m writing to say thank you and to let you know that you have a pleased and devoted follower.

Carole Croll

Hello Miranda!

I wanted to send you a message of Thanks… I started your program around 5 years ago. I do one session a day 5 days a week (most of the time!) and I love it. I am a former collegiate cross country and track runner and I had gotten so used to running as my default workout, but then I had a knee that just wouldn’t stop hurting, until I stopped running. I needed something else and then I found you. I feel stronger that I ever have. I feel truly functionally fit. I am 38 and I feel as good or better than when I was 18. I am a forester this makes me so prepared for the physical part of my job. I can cross a log over a creek without any problems (thanks to ABCs!) I have also found that just walking in the woods that I lose my balance much less often now. I love how your program makes it so easy for me to workout. I wear my workout clothes to bed, wake up and workout at 5:30. It’s such a great way to start my day. And I love that I’m not drenched in sweat and need to shower right away too, I’m a before bed shower person! There are just so many things about your program that make it sustainable, practical, fun and an awesome workout. So many thanks to you and your team for sharing this with the world. Now if I could convince everyone I love to do this program that would be great!

With Sincere Thanks,

Jennifer
La Porte, Indiana

Hello

We thank you for your wonderful exercise program. We are both getting older, 59 and 51, and haven’t liked what we see or how we feel. Even though we both walk and do other exercise, poor posture, pain, stiffness, and slowing down have been our reward. Those symptoms for the next 30 or 40 years are not our idea of living. We never watch television. However, this week we are vacationing at a place with television. I, Ginger, saw the tail end of a PBS fund raiser with your exercises as the focus. Your little talk about posture, pain, stiffness, and so forth spoke to my soul. I immediately looked for everything I could find on the internet about you and it. I tried a mini workout and felt fantastic. I told my husband and we got your TV subscription. True, it’s only been a few days, but we both can’t believe how much we like it. Instead of feeling like going back to bed after one of your workouts, we are energized. Instead of creeping along with extra sore muscles as we have with other exercise, we feel lighter and freer in our movements. Both of us are already standing up straighter. I had a short flu but did workouts those days regardless. It seemed to shorten the duration and reduce the symptoms of the virus, too. Anyway, I think my favorite part is the reminder of my beloved childhood ballet classes. Thank you so much for your hard work and perseverance in getting this revolutionary movement program before the public. We will forever be grateful.

Joseph and Ginger Conrad

Miranda,

I wanted to thank you for your well thought out lessons. I am a 67 year old male who has doing them five times a week for over a year.

So many men, myself included, have spent our earlier years doing exercise for strength and stamina. I find value in your knowledge of and conviction about the importance of stretching. Your approach has many similarities to true Chinese Internal training which was another fortunate experience in my life. The movements emanate from the core. “One thing move, everything move.”

And I sense, as I am sure most of your viewers do, that you genuinely wish to help people improve their health.

You are doing good work. Thank you.

Richard

I am 52 years old and needless to say life seems stressful and hectic. My body is beginning to not do the things I ask! A friend told me about this workout on PBS. I did it for the first time this morning. My legs are shaky, but wow, I feel better from those 20 min or so! I will be doing this every morning. Thank you. I think I may have found what I am looking for!

Lisa M.

I am 54 years old and didn’t believe you when you said some people have actually grown an inch instead of shrinking. Well at my last physical I indeed had grown 1/2 an inch. We went to dinner with friends last weekend and all of my friends my age and younger said they found tat they had lost inches in height but I could honestly say that I had grown instead of shrinking. I could only attribute the growth witht my daily classical stretch routine. My daughter and husband convinced me to purchase a bikini on out last vacation as they both said I have an amazing body and I should show it off. I am shy by nature so I will probably only wear it in the back yard but anyway I must give credit to the posture and slenderizing exercises I have learned on Classical stretch. My daughter and I try remember and help each other do the exercises when we are on vacation as I really feel out of sorts when I skip them and get stiff and sore if I miss a day or two. You should have seen us on the cruise ship exercise floor trying to balance as the ship was rocking back and forth, very challenging indeed.

Thank you so much for this gift as I have helped myself and daughter keep a healthy routine of eating well and doing my classical stretches and walk the dog daily and I don’t go to a gym anymore as I feel this is what keeps my feeling and looking my best. My friends say they need to do what I do as it works.

Kimberly

I have been doing Classical Stretch for a number of years.

I am 56 years old. Today I was at a wellness fair and I stood on a piece of equipment to check balance and they were to tell me what risk range I would be in for falling. Twice I had to stand for 15 seconds holding the spot in the middle of the “bullseye”. It waivered a little bit and all I kept thinking was hold my core! My score was .8. The woman seemed surprised and asked my age and then told me I was in the 17-35 yr. range, which was .07-2.2. Because of stimulating my balance sensors like you teach us, I did remarkably well!

I did what I could to promote your program!

Thank you!

Joan M

Dear Miranda,

I’ve been doing Classical Stretch for the past 17 years. I’m going to be 87 at the end of this month and no one believes me when I tell them my age. I attribute it to your exercise program and want to thank you for your help.

Mary G.

Hi Miranda,

I just wanted to tell you that I just recently started recording your programs on DVR in the past few weeks because I have been on a mission to lose weight, exercise and get healthy and fit this summer. I have never had the will power to follow a specific diet before, but I have found my determination. I lost my job this summer and have found solace in regaining control in other areas of my life, since my job situation is slightly out of my control.

As a child/teen I was involved in dance (ballet/tap/jazz) for several years and then at the end of my high school years and college years I delved into martial arts. Those are the only two sports/exercise programs I have ever been able to stick with for any length of time. I just enrolled my daughter (almost 4) in her first dance class this past spring and it made me start to miss dance. Finding your classical stretch program has helped me to partially satisfy my desire to go back to dance (I can’t afford it right now, plus there aren’t many places that hold adult intermediate dance classes). It has invigorated my soul, and I actually look forward to working out, something I haven’t felt in about 10 years.

Thank you for your inspiring work. I love that I can feel certain areas being targeted each time. I have still maintained my flexibility from years of dance and martial arts, but my muscles have become very tight and atrophied through lack of use. It has made me feel so much more alive to participate in your program and feel those muscles lengthening and strengthening once again.

Noelle P.

Dear Miranda,

My mother just turn 82 and she stills does your classical stretches and subsitute teaches at school. She still puts on her Bloch in line soft ballet slippers and does your DVD every day during her 1 hour break.She uses her chair and does her daily routine including using the chalkboard as a ballet bar. She is a great inspiration to all of of us.

Kenny D.

I am 66 years old, and always travel with my mat (Pilates, yoga). On a trip to San Francisco this weekend, I turned on the tv early in the day, and discovered Classical Stretch! This is the way I love to move and stretch,and at last someone has put it all together and made programs and dvds??? I am so excited! I did the program and enjoyed the good feeling!

Now, I have found your web site and can order dvds and SHARE this method with my fitness friends of all ages. But believe me, for an aging but fit body, this method is the best I have found, and I started working out with “Yoga for Health” on tv in 1962 with Richard Hittleman! Alice

Alice G.