Pilates Principles
Pilates is an exercise method that relies on strengthening core postural muscles (core stability) and developing body alignment. Central to the method is ‘awareness of your own body.’ The aim of Pilates is not to develop bulging muscles or cardiovascular fitness but to help your whole body (respiratory, lymphatic, & circulatory systems) operate in an effective and efficient manner. It avoids the muscle and ligament damage, sometimes associated with other fitness regimes.
The method of exercise has its origins in the work of the late Joseph Pilates (born 1880 near Dusseldorf, Germany). He was self-taught athlete, who originally pioneered exercises for injured WW1 soldiers. In 1925, he came to New York and opened his own studios. Pilates fame spread first among dancers, who relied on his technique for fitness and rehabilitation. Prominent New Yorkers in the fields of finance, the arts, sports, and education first tried Pilates. Today his system has evolved into an international exercise phenomenon accessible to everyone.
PILATES PRINCIPLES (each exercise is built around these principles)
- Concentration
- Mind body connection
- Being aware of and focusing on each movement enhances body awareness and develop your kinesthetic sense
- Control
- Paying attention to all details of each exercise
- Managing the breathing and movement
- Centering/Stabilization
- Initiating movement from a stable source (the center) and stabilizing through opposition of movement.
- ‘Core stability’ is achieved through the exercises, and then maintained by building upon existing movement sequences.
- Precision
- Paying attention to and being aware of details
- Flow- there is grace and elegance to the movements it comes from working smarter, not harder.
- Moving without strain or stress
- The aim is smooth continuous motions, rather than jarring repetitions
- Breath
- Making proper use of the lungs (lateral breathing)
- Exhalating to stimulate breathing, facilitate core support and intensify movements
- Deep, conscious patterns of inhaling initiate movement, activate deep stabilizing muscles and keep focus.
THE BENEFITS OF PILATES
- Develop general fitness and better focus
- Expand body awareness and coordination
- Increase stability and balance
- Improve body alignment and posture
- Increase strength and flexibility
- Relax and release stress/tension – a sense of well being
- Improve stamina/have more energy