WHAT IS PILATES?
Pilates is a form of exercise which aims to improve posture, strengthen all muscles from head to toe, increase mobility, increase flexibility and challenge co-ordination skills.
It's suitable for men, women and children. The great thing about this form of exercise is that it can be modified/adapted to suit each individual whether you're an absolute beginner to exercise, a professional athlete or recovering from an injury.
PILATES PRINCIPLES
Breathing - By using the breath you can take each exercise to it's full potential and connect to the movement with extra support. You'd be surprised how often you're holding that breath in when you exercise....why make things harder for yourself?!
Concentration - A moment of focus and use of your mind is needed throughout to get your body moving the pilates way.
Centring - Our centre point, our 'Powerhouse', our core is where each movement is sourced from.
Precision - Each movement/exercise requires a certain position and alignment of body parts, constantly aiming for accuracy in execution.
Flowing Movement - A feeling of fluidity and grace should be present throughout each motion. At no point are pilates movements jerky, they are done with ease.
Isolation - Learning to separate muscle groups to optimise the build up of strength throughout the body.
Control - Moving at a steady pace rather than at high speed is tougher than it may sound. Maintaining this control ties in with all other principles; use of mind, focus etc.
Routine - 'In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference and in 30 you'll have a new body' Like any routine you must stick to it but trust me you will!
BENEFITS
Improved flexibility
Increased Strength
Increased muscle tone in the buttocks, abdominals, thighs, arms, shoulders/everywhere!
Better use of breath leading to more efficient respiratory system, more efficient circulatory system and more efficient lymphatic system
Decreased stress levels
Improved posture
Fewer headaches
Prevention of back pain
Prevention and aid in rehabilitation of injuries
Increased bone density
Greater joint mobility
Improved overall functional movement