What is Pilates?
The primary principles of Pilates include Breath, Concentration, Control, Centering, Precision and Flow.
Joseph Hubertus Pilates started this method of physical movement designed to stretch and strengthen the body in about 1914, while in forced internment as a German National in England. Using his many years of self-study in yoga, gymnastics and ancient Greek and Roman exercises, he devised the method “Contrology.” Today these series of exercises are known as Pilates. He later designed machines to add resistance and expand the range of exercises in his repertoire. Two of the machines are known as “the Reformer” and “the Cadillac” and are still in popular use today.
Pilates can be described as a biomechanical, neuromuscular set of movements, which can be tailored to various levels of fitness and health. This effective training system for the body has several benefits:
Over the years many different schools of Pilates have developed. However, in a standard Mat Workout, you can expect to move the body from head to toe. Serious students will see toning in most muscles of the body, in particular the abdominals, the arms and the legs. A consistent Pilates practice tailored to a student’s needs may also help to alleviate certain types of back pain and other ailments.
Joseph Hubertus Pilates started this method of physical movement designed to stretch and strengthen the body in about 1914, while in forced internment as a German National in England. Using his many years of self-study in yoga, gymnastics and ancient Greek and Roman exercises, he devised the method “Contrology.” Today these series of exercises are known as Pilates. He later designed machines to add resistance and expand the range of exercises in his repertoire. Two of the machines are known as “the Reformer” and “the Cadillac” and are still in popular use today.
Pilates can be described as a biomechanical, neuromuscular set of movements, which can be tailored to various levels of fitness and health. This effective training system for the body has several benefits:
- Strengthening the core muscles of the body: The Abdominals are often referred to as the Powerhouse of the body. With consistent practice these muscles gain strength. Stronger Abdominals ensure that the skeleton and in particular, the spine, remains supported and protected.
- Increasing awareness of posture and balance: Strengthening the Powerhouse will ensure an improvement in posture as well as tone the legs, gluts and waistline.
- Mind Body coordination and grace: Pilates requires concentration and focus to ensure that the exercises are done correctly. Focus on the movement, with a connection to the breath pattern helps to develop a graceful flow, which then becomes habitual for the student and is reflected in everyday movement.
- An increased lung capacity and circulation: Throughout the practice, the student uses a method of breathing that encourages good circulation and high energy.
Over the years many different schools of Pilates have developed. However, in a standard Mat Workout, you can expect to move the body from head to toe. Serious students will see toning in most muscles of the body, in particular the abdominals, the arms and the legs. A consistent Pilates practice tailored to a student’s needs may also help to alleviate certain types of back pain and other ailments.