What is Pilates? And Why Pilates?
Pilates is a system of movement and exercise that was developed in the 1920’s. Originated by Joseph Pilates, the goal of the system is to strengthen and stretch the muscles while integrating the mind and body
Pilates exercise works the body from the inside out, beginning with deep structural muscles of the diaphragm, pelvis, lower back and buttocks, and then working up and out to the muscles of the chest, shoulders, upper back and extremities. This methods has the desired outcome of slimming the muscles, making them more compact by developing slenderness rather than bulk.
Joseph Pilates pioneered his fitness philosophy in order to overcome his own disabilities, combining elements or yoga, breath work, weight training and gymnastics to bring the body into proper alignment. He believed that most of us have unbalanced bodies because we tend to overdevelop the stronger muscles groups, which ultimately leads to poor posture and spinal misalignment. His goal was to create and maintain a structurally fit body.
“Health is a normal condition. It is a duty not only to attain it, but to maintain it.” Joseph Pilates
ADVANTAGES
- Builds strength, flexibility and co-ordination
- Develops long, lean muscles
- Emphasizes low-impact, partial and non-weight-bearing exercises
- Effective for all fitness levels
- Challenging yet safe
- Rapid results
- So safe, physical therapists use it
THE PILATES METHOD IS FOR
- Those who have become discontent with the ‘gym scene’ and needs a more focused program.
- Those who require more specific guidance for their exercise programs.
- Those recovering from injury and needing a more specific physical rehabilitation.
- The elderly who require a gentle, yet effective, exercise regime.
- Those requiring more strengthening and stretching of their musculature.
- Those suffering from back pain and other joint or muscular problems.
- Those requiring an injury prevention program.
- Those wishing to reduce mental and physical stress.