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Stability Ball and Stretching Band

What is Pilates?

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Joseph Pilates, originally from Germany, created this mind-body exercise system, which he originally named Contrology. His inspiration for the method came during World War I, while he was interned at a camp on the Isle of Man. During his four years there, he worked with fellow internees, refining his system of exercises intended to strengthen both the mind and body.

Joseph Pilates later moved to Manhattan and opened a studio there where he coached Prima Ballerinas and members of the high society including famous actors and dancers such as Martha Graham.

So what was he teaching and why do so many people all over the world rave about the benefits of Pilates?

The main focus of Pilates is to improve your posture, strengthen your core and rebalance your body. It reduces pain, enhances sports performance and ultimately improves your quality of life. This is achieved through a series of exercises either on a mat or using equipment in a specialist studio. You may be asked to attend a postural assessment prior to attending a class and the class instructor will adjust and modify the exercises to suit your own personal strengths and weaknesses. You could be in a class of 12 but every person will be doing their own version of the exercise.

And to start with all you need is a mat and a towel! The key with Pilates is to learn the fundamentals and to apply the Pilates principles whilst performing either classical or specially modified exercises from the original Pilates method set by a qualified professional.

Yoga Class

Fundamentals and Principles

What are the fundamentals of Pilates? 
  • Shoulder stabilisation (shoulders that sit down the back without bringing tension into the neck)

  • neutral spine and/or pelvis (the natural curve of the spine that provides the best posture to move without pain)

  • Core stabilisation (providing a stable torso when moving)

  • Pelvic floor engagement (providing additional support to the back and torso)

  • Lateral thoracic breathing (breathing into the sides of the ribcage to allow a full breath whilst exercising).

What are the Pilates Principles?
  • Breath

  • Precision

  • Flow

  • Concentration

  • Centring

  • Control

By applying the fundamentals and principles of Pilates to your practice the benefits you will feel can be life changing. Your quality of movement will improve both inside and outside of the class and you will feel better both mentally and physically.

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