What is Pilates?
Pilates is a mind and body low-impact conditioning programme based on the principles of concentration, relaxation, breathing, alignment, coordination, centring, flowing movements, and stamina which develops a greater awareness and control of the body, invigorating the mind and elevating the spirit.
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The Pilates method was designed by its founder Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, originally used as a form of injury recovery for soldiers. His method, coined “Contrology”, would later become popular with the dance community as an effective way to improve technique and aid recovery. Pilates further evolved and developed his repertoire of 34 fundamental exercises, spreading his knowledge throughout many decades. Upon his passing, his first generation of students honoured his legacy by renaming it the “Pilates Method” and continued to teach it, adding their own personal stamp, many of them becoming legends themselves.
Pilates is widely practised all over the world nowadays.
What is its aim?
Pilates aims to rebalance the strength and flexibility of the body, enabling its neutral alignment by building strength from the inside out. Targeting our deep intrinsic stability muscles to help strengthen major muscles, it unlocks the range of flexibility that can only be achieved when all muscles are properly and uniformly developed. This allows our daily routine to be performed naturally, with minimum effort and maximum pleasure.
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Based on regular and adequate practice, through conscious repetition of each exercise, learning takes place and brings gradual unconscious improvements to the way the body moves in everyday life, helping reach mastery of the mind over the complete control of the body.
Achieving this higher level of awareness can unlock positive change in ourselves.
Who is Pilates for?
Pilates is good for all populations: from beginners, improvers, and those with back problems to professional athletes - regardless of gender, age, body shape, and current fitness level.
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Developing greater body awareness, improving your posture, and restoring body balance
Reshaping and toning your body, improving core stability and stamina
Developing greater flexibility, strength, and joint mobility
Encouraging more efficient breathing patterns to improve respiratory and circulatory systems
Developing full-body coordination, stimulating the brain and improving your discipline, helping improve the quality of your life
Reducing back pain
Reducing the risk of injuries and improving recovery speed
Enhancing sports performance
Reducing stress and anxiety levels, helping you relax and concentrate further throughout your day
Improving your well-being, giving you more energy and a better mood to carry on everyday work.