– A Quick Guide to Pilates
First, let’s start with what Pilates is not!!! Pilates is not exercise. That is to say it is not exercise in the traditional sense.
Pilates is a movement system or technique, with its essence in postural balance. Pilates choreography or a sequence of flowing Pilates movements work the body uniformly to bring it back into alignment.
Developed by Joseph Pilates (Joe Pilates) in the early 1900s, it has in the past been described as the ‘thinking person’s exercise’ because of its focus on movement with precision.
By performing each ‘Pilates exercise’ mindfully we can create a body that is strong and ‘in balance’. The increased muscular endurance achieved through Pilates workouts has a functional carry over that assists us in the Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s).
Combining the concepts of core control, spinal elongation and focus, each wonderful movement is bolstered by a relaxed flowing breath that unites body and mind.
Pilates movements with names such as Elephant, Snake and Open Leg Rocker Seal can be performed on either a mat or specifically designed Pilates machines with equally exotically names like The Pilates Reformer, The Pilates Trapeze, The Pilates Wunda Chair.
‘Exercise sessions with Joe were not meant to tire, but rather to invigorate’
While Pilates was designed for and traditionally taught on a one-to-one basis on specific Pilates equipment and machines in dedicated Pilates studios, most people today participate in group Pilates mat work classes, which are now held throughout the country in church, school and community halls, gyms and other health and fitness facilities.
Joyce
If you have any questions about Pilates or would like to learn more about our training, phone us at 01 868 4600, or drop us a line to training@bodyfirmpilates.com
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