PILATES

Developed 90 years ago by Joseph Pilates, Pilates is a fusion of stretching and strengthening exercises that engage the mind, invigorate the spirit, and condition the total body. The Pilates method incorporates a balanced blend of strength and flexibility training to improve posture, reduce stress and create long lean muscles. Pilates conditions the body from head to toe with a no- to low-impact approach, promoting lower back and abdominal strength, lower torso stabilization and fluid motion. Smooth, rhythmic motions are used to concentrate on strengthening and stabilizing the core muscles, the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region, creating healthier joints and a balanced skeletal system. The focus in Pilates is on quality of movement rather than quantity, as a result, you will feel invigorated rather than exhausted after a session. A balanced approach assures that no muscle group is overworked, enabling the body to work as an efficient, holistic system in sport and daily activity.

Principles of Pilates

•  Alignment — proper alignment is key to good posture. Through Pilates you’ll be aware of the position of your head and neck in    relation to your spine and pelvis, legs and feet.

•  Breathing — Deep, coordinated, conscious patterns of inhales and exhales initiate movement, help activate deep muscles and keep you focused.

•  Centering — A mental focus within the body calms the spirit. A specific focus on the torso develops a strong core and enables the rest of the body to function more efficiently.

•  Concentration — The all-important mind-body connection. Conscious control of movement enhances body awareness.

•  Fluidity — Smooth, continuous motion rather than jarring repetitions. Pilates is a graceful and elegant exercise system.

•  Integration — Several different muscle groups are engaged simultaneously to control and support movement. All principles come together, making for a holistic mind-body workout.

Stabilizing before you move, you have to be still. Pilates makes for a safe starting place for mobility.

"Physical fitness is, the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure" ~ Joseph H. Pilates