What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method designed to elongate, strengthen and restore the body to balance. Based upon an anatomical understanding of the body’s muscular and skeletal systems, the Pilates teacher creates a comprehensive exercise programme for the client. Sessions will focus on specific areas individually whilst using movements that integrate the whole body to re-educate and restore it to optimum muscular and skeletal function.
It is this holistic approach that sets Pilates apart from many other forms of exercise. During our resistance training, we use springs and bodyweight exercises to develop a strong core and condition the whole body.
The method uses exercises that work the body from the inside out. The deep, structural muscles of the shoulders, upper back, diaphragm, chest, pelvis, lower back and buttocks are developed in such a way to stabilise the body and hence cause an extremely solid base to work from. Then the movers (muscles that move the body) can work more efficiently and with ease.
Osteopaths, physiotherapists, chiropractors and general practitioners recommend Pilates as one of the safest forms of exercise today. Pilates can be beneficial for just about everyone, regardless of age and fitness level.
Benefits of Pilates
Improved Posture
Longer, stronger and leaner muscles without the bulk
Develop your core strength and more stable back and spine
Improved posture, balance, coordination and overall body awareness
Increase flexibility and Range of Motion
Increased athletic performance in almost any sport – triathlons, swimming, running, football, golf, skiing…
Better balance especially for the elderly
Maintain Your Proper Biomechanical Alignment
Condition Your Body Before and After Childbirth
Reduces the chances of injury
Rehabilitation on medical conditions to do with the musculoskeletal issues such as Osteoporosis, Scoliosis, Spine issues, Sciatica, Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis. Knee, hip, neck and shoulder long term rehabilitation.
Tone up your entire body
Boosted self-esteem and feel absolutely great
Increased Metabolism
And many more!
The Principles of Pilates – The Six Key Principles Of The Pilates Method
Centering
The main focus point of the method. All the work starts from and is sustained through the Centre. Joseph Pilates called this centre the “Powerhouse”.
Concentration
To fully benefit from the workout with the exercises are executed with focused concentration. It is the mind that guides the body. Five aspects of the mind are brought into the workout. Those aspects are intelligence, intuition, imagination, will and memory.
Control
When the work is done from the centre and with full concentration, you are in control of the movements performed. Habit and gravity do not take over. Joseph Pilates called his Method “Contrology”, the art of control.
Precision
Work with quality instead of quantity. The exercises were designed with a precise goal in mind, and one must pay the utmost attention to details. All exercises have a clear structure, a precise form, and an optimal dynamic.
Breath
All exercises are done with the rhythm of the breath and heart-beat. Inhale on the point of effort to send fresh oxygen to the muscles when they most need it. Exhale, wringing all the stale air out of the lungs.
Flow
The full workout is a flowing succession of exercises performed with vigorous dynamics. There is a minimum of movement, especially in the transitions, for a maximum flow.
Incorporating all six principals into your workout is the ultimate goal to achieve maximum benefit and efficiency.