Krysta Anderson, Gleaner Writer

So I promised you a part II in my quest to master the art of walking in heels.After finding the correct pair of heels, I journeyed to the Bolivar Gallery on Grove Road for another meeting with Chyna Whyne to participate in the Alexander technique as well as engage in the fitness in heels class.

Alexander Technique

The first to introduce the Alexander technique to Jamaica, Whyne explained that the main purpose of it is to improve one's posture.

Under her scrutiny, I demonstrated how I would normally sit. Almost immediately, she pointed out that I had a slight slump and that from standing upright to sitting took me 10 movements. Just imagine my surprise when it took her one smooth transition from standing to sitting with perfect posture. Who knew walking in heels could get so complicated?

From there, she took me through a series of repetitive exercises - a soothing and relaxing experience of adjusting the back, chest, hips and knees, shifting and aligning the head with the spine, and the right posture for sitting and standing.

After these exercises, it was pretty obvious that my posture had improved dramatically. I felt lighter, more upright, and it had actually eliminated a back pain I had been complaining about for weeks. Next.

Fitness in Stilettos?

To say the least, I was a bit sceptical about this class. But, surprisingly, the class began without heels. We did some standard floor exercises to warm up our legs, with the explanation that the foundation for great balance is having a strong core. The sweat came pouring down as we engaged our abdominals.

We then progressed to the energetic-heels segment, where we executed basic aerobic moves. Easier said than done - but the musical beats carried me through and made it less of a death sentence. I was challenged to dig deep and find my inner diva. We stepped across the room, strutting with confidence around the beautiful artwork, in order to channel and 'tun up' our 'swagga'.

Perspiration glaring, the calves and legs came under pressure as we gyrated, pulsated and jumped! In heels! With great caution and relief, we cooled down, stretching and relaxing our joints and muscles. Then inhaling and exhaling slowly, the class came to an end. Surprisingly, it was an interesting class and I left the gallery smiling and feeling rejuvenated.

Now that I have completed the class - dancing in heels - the real question is this: Will it help me walk in heels?

Look out for part three where I attend a three-hour soiree. Will I be able to walk and stay in my heels for the duration of the event? Let us see.