What is Pilates?
“You can say what Pilates is in these words:
Stretch with strength and control. And the control part
is the most important because it makes you use your mind.”
-Romana Kryzanowska, Pilates elder
Pilates focuses on building core strength through a systematic approach. Even when there is a specific emphasis of a movement, the exercises still engage the entire body. Alignment and correct form are priorities for balanced muscle development and healthy joint mechanics and both are components of efficient movement.
Pilates asks practitioners to be attentive to how they move. The steady presence of mind while moving results in targeted muscle engagement and increased control. Being intentional about how one engages muscles, conditions and trains both body and mind. This transfers to correct functional movement in daily activities and feeling better to enhance quality of life!
The Pilates Core
The Pilates Core is the body's center of gravity that absorbs and transfers forces. Core muscles are in the middle of the body and outlined by the base of the breastbone down to the pubic bone and wrapping around the sides near the waist to the back. Engaging and moving from the core is supported by glutes and inner/outer thighs. Given the central position of the core in the body, strengthening it creates a foundation of stability, balance and power.
Pilates Principles
Pilates Principles outline a mindset and manner for moving and conditioning the body. Being familiar with the principles facilitates development of the mind body connection. Understanding and integrating the principles comes with one’s personal practice of Pilates.
The principles are:
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Whole Body Movement
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Breathing
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Balanced Muscle Development
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Concentration
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Control
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Centering
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Precision
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Rhythm / Flow
Follow links below to learn more about Pilates: