Pilates

Pilates: A Comprehensive Approach to Functional and Sustainable Movement

Developed in the 1920s, Pilates is designed to foster functional and sustainable movement patterns throughout the entire body, with a strong focus on deep core strength. By combining breathwork with movement, Pilates engages the smaller, deeper stabilising muscles as well as the primary movers of the body. This method is often used as a cross-training exercise, enhancing overall health and supporting activities like running and weightlifting. Additionally, Pilates is highly beneficial for injury recovery, targeting isolated muscle groups, alignment, stability, and mobility. Its low-impact nature, coupled with an emphasis on core strength and posture, makes Pilates an excellent exercise choice for both pre and postnatal clients.

Key Principles of Pilates:

Breath

Diaphragmatic breathing activates the core muscles, enhancing movement and strengthening intercostal muscles, which leads to improved respiratory efficiency.

Control

Executing movements slowly and without momentum ensures proper alignment and muscular control, fully engaging the targeted muscles and maximising their benefits.

Centering

Pilates emphasises initiating and concluding each movement from the core. Engaging the core stabilizes the spine, enhances movement patterns, and helps prevent injuries.

Precision

Concentration and control enhance precision in movements over time, helping to eliminate bad habits and promote more efficient movement patterns.

Concentration

Focusing on each movement ensures precision and better muscle engagement. Concentration during Pilates can also reduce stress and provide a peaceful interlude in a busy day.

Flow

The ultimate goal is to perform exercises with ease and fluidity. Mastering this principle enhances daily life by reducing chronic pain, decreasing injury risk, improving other forms of exercise, and fostering overall well-being.