VIDEO: Pennywell Farm near Buckfastleigh is bringing its own unique animal exercise brand to the world.

Exercising with animals has become a bit of a trend in recent years since Goat Yoga made its way across the pond, and the Farm's owners say that Piggy Pilates has the potential to be every bit as popular.

The advantages of interaction with animals of any kind are widely known and touching animals releases hormones such as phenyl ethylamine, the hormone which produces the same pleasurable effect on the brain as chocolate.

Pilates was invented by German-born Joseph Pilates who believed that mental and physical health were closely connected. He designed his exercises to make the maximum use of your time by targeting the deep postural muscles of the body, building strength from the inside out and rebalancing your muscles.

The pigs will be free to roam around the participants as they take their class and with pigs being curious by nature, it should prove to be interesting.

South West Farmer:

The first session is on Sunday 12 May

Pilates teacher Harry Parkes will be leading the sessions which will be followed by breakfast and the promise of piggy cuddles with the pennywell piglets.

Harry said: “While there is plenty of fun to be had, pilates has many benefits including improving posture, movement quality, mobility, flexibility, mental cognition and core strength."

Pennywell’s owner Chris Murray said: “Exercise is an important part of life so should never be dull. You can have a real giggle and still have a good workout.

"Everyone should exercise with a smile on their face and with miniature pigs running around, it’s impossible not to smile.”

The first of the monthly sessions is on Sunday 12 May. To find out more email: info@pennywellfarm.co.uk