Pilates is a fitness method that uses innovative exercises to strengthen the mind, body and spirit. Using the mat and/or special apparatus, Pilates is used to improve physical strength, flexibility, posture and mental awareness. Pilates movements require attention to breathe, form, alignment and balanced muscle control. With intentional goals and regular practice, Pilates can improve anyone’s health: from those recovering from an injury to the ambitious athlete. While rooted in Joseph Pilates’ method Contrology, Pilates evolves in accordance with the needs of modern bodies.
Sessions are constructed using 9 principles:
- Breathing: In Pilates, we integrate breathwork into every movement to maintain and improve awareness, the flow of oxygen in our tissues and the capacity of our lungs.
- Concentration: To concentrate is to pay attention to what we are doing. Joseph Pilates once said, “It is better to do five repetitions perfectly than 20 without paying attention.”
- Control: Control is understanding and maintaining the proper form, alignment and effort during an exercise.
- Centering: In Pilates, all movements radiate outward from the center of the body.
- Precision: Precision is the ability to consistently perform exercises with proper form.
- Balanced Muscle Development: One of the goals of Pilates is to develop the body in a uniform and balanced way.
- Rhythm/Flow: Flow establishes smooth, graceful and functional movements.
- Whole Body Movement: Pilates is fundamentally about integration. We integrate the mind, body and spirit to create clarity, purpose and a life of balance.
- Relaxation: It is important to understand the balance between effort and relaxation and its contribution to mind and body health. Learning to release unnecessary tension in our bodies helps us find ease in movement.