What is pilates? Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates who was an accomplished body builder, diver, skier and gymnast. Pilates observed that where there was a weak or misaligned area in the body a person tended to over compensate or over develop another area. Therefore it was critical not only to correct the misalignment, but also to re-educate the body so the injuries didn't repeat themselves. The original 34 exercises were designed for advanced clientele, but these have since been modified and adapted for the general public. Pilates has something to offer people of all ages and fitness levels, from beginners to elite athletes. Pilates exercises help to keep the spine mobile and healthy. Pilates can improve posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility when done regularly. It has been popular among dancers for the ability to develop whole-body strength and flexibility, and helping reduce the risk of injury.
The six generally accepted principles of pilates, the work of Joseph Pilates is based on the following :
1) Concentration : The aim is to be able to focus fully on each movement, bringing mind and body together
2) Breath : When doing pilates exercises we engage the deep abdominals, this breathing is called Lateral Thoracic Breathing, where you epand the ribcage out to the sides and into the back, rather than the abdominal cavity. The breathing technique is conscious as opposed to unconscious (normal breathing).
3) Centring : Every exercise is controlled by the contraction of the deep abdominal muscles, we aim to strengthen these muscles
4) Precision : Correct alignment of the body while exercising, mastering the techniques, quality execution of the movements
5) Flow : Aiming to achieve controlled movement through the concentric and eccentric phases, resulting in a balanced and functional training program
6) Control : Focusing on quality rather than quantity, good technique and body awareness.
Want to give it a try? Book on to my Pilates Fundamentals course, this course is focused on the fundamentals of pilates and is great for people who are beginners or those that would like to improve their technique.
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