 |
What
is Pilates?
The
Pilates Method was devised over 75 years ago by Joseph Pilates.
Considered to be well ahead of his time in his research and
understanding of exercise and physiology, he developed an
exercise system that is still taught throughout the world today.
Some
of his original mat based exercises have been modified in line
with current research, but they still maintain the principles of
his original work.
|
Joseph
Pilates observed that when there was a weak or misaligned area in
the body, a person tended to over-compensate or over-develop
another area, therefore it was important to not only correct the
misalignment but to re-educate the body so that injuries did not
recur.
Pilates
is now an incredibly popular form of exercise with the general
public of all ages and levels of fitness, and is also used widely
by sports men and women and dancers.
Taught
by fitness professionals and also recommended by physiotherapists,
the Pilates method is used to prevent and rehabilitate injuries in
various parts of the body, and to relieve stress by bringing the
mind and body together, focussing on total concentration, balance,
precision and breathing.
The
slow, controlled flowing movements primarily strengthen the deep
‘core’ muscles of the back and abdomen that stabilise and
support the spine and correct postural problems whilst developing
flexibility and mobility of the joints.
Pilates
is also famous for flattening the stomach, toning and lengthening
the muscles of the body, changing the way you look and feel.
Why
Pilates?
-
Safe
and effective for all ages and abilities.
-
Prevents
and rehabilitates injuries by developing a healthy spine and a
body balanced with strength and flexibility.
-
Helps
to improve sports performance by training the ‘core’
muscles of the body, creating a ‘power house’ of strength
and agility.
-
Creates
a flat stomach by training the Transverse abdominis which acts
as a muscular girdle, not only supporting the back as you move but creating an aesthetically pleasing look.
-
Mobilises
the joints and stretches the muscles of the body, particularly
beneficial for hip, back and shoulder problems.
-
Relieves
stress by allowing you to clear your mind of problems and
worries as you concentrate fully on the controlled movements
and specific breathing technique.
-
Strengthens
the pelvic floor muscle - particularly beneficial after
childbirth.
-
Teaches
you to engage deep core muscles and to carry out daily
activities with a good posture to keep your spine healthy.
Pilates
Principles
-
Concentration
-
Breathing
-
Centering
-
Precision
-
Flow
-
Body
awareness
-
Stamina
-
Relaxation
|
