Pilates
What is Pilates?
The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises. It strengthens and tones muscles, improves posture, provides flexibility and balance, unites body and mind and creates a more streamlined shape.
Joseph Pilates developed 34 original exercises in the 1920s. His approach was to link the mind and body to bring both into conscious alignment in a holistic exercise system. Key to the original matwork are its flowing sequences, balances and challenging movements. This requires coordination, control, flexibility and strength. Since then the method has evolved to include a variety of different exercises whilst adhering to the key principles of Pilates.
The key to its popularity as an exercise form is the application of these principles to movement. In this way it has a recognised role in remedial programmes as it can be used to train the body following injury and can be taught to any level.
In a one to one lesson the exercises can be modified to suit the individual. It is also a recommended starting point for the complete beginner before joining a class. Whilst attention is given to strengthening the core muscles throughout movement, Pilates is more than simply exercises to improve core strength. If when exercising, the aim is to balance our bodies, reduce stress, improve endurance, look better and feel great then we should utilize the one method that has over nine decades proven its ability to achieve all these things.