WHAT IS PILATES?
Joseph H. Pilates created this technique as a means to both heal and strengthen any body regardless of age or level of ability. His intention was to create a movement practice about the art of control. Pilates focuses on deep core activation, precision of coordinated movement, and the awareness of breath. It begins very simply and has been designed to progress in a number of ways depending on your personal goals.
Pilates is good for those who are just starting to exercise, as a compliment to an already active sports or training regimen, or to fully sculpt the body on its own. The long and lean Pilates body!
KEY PRINCIPLES OF PILATES slide shows available on desktops only
Pilates utilizes a variety of machines which first give access to correct musculature and proper technique. This ensures healthy movement patterns that set the foundation for more challenging movements to help you lift your own weight, balance better and control your body in various positions. Learning the proper quality of movement allows for deep stretching and opens space within the joints to provide greater ease and movement capability. This is especially pleasurable for the spine.
The 5 main pieces you will find in a studio are shown below.
As you advance, each machine varies the technique to provide endless levels of challenge to strengthen and open the body to any degree desirable.
Mat exercies are also extremely effective when trying to find control over body parts as well as for lifting your own weight. The Mat work is often the most difficult and requires the most control over your anatomy. I often incorporate specific mat exercises that will personally benifit you, can be done at home, and will expedite your ability to manage your own body to see results.
Breath links mind/body connectivity, allowing presence during movement. When correct breathing is achieved, it improves concentration and ensures a good flow of oxygen to the working muscles which cleanses and energizes the whole body.
When engaged in a Pilates exercise, it is important to be present and in control of your physicality. Without CONCENTRATION, the movement loses FORM, PURPOSE, and FUNCTION.
To challenge the body in a healthy way, the balance between relaxation and effort must be understood. When doing Pilates, one should be aware to use effort that necessary to complete the movement properly. Learning to relieve the body of stress and unecessary tension is beneficial to one's overall wellbeing.
Breath links mind/body connectivity, allowing presence during movement. When correct breathing is achieved, it improves concentration and ensures a good flow of oxygen to the working muscles which cleanses and energizes the whole body.