Faithfully practiced, Pilates offers many beneficial improvements to health:
- Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep breathing
- Improved strength and flexibility of the abdomen and back
- Increased coordination of the muscles and the mind
- Improved bone density
- Increased joint health
- Improved body awareness
Pilates works well for a wide range of people looking for improved health because of the application of safe modifications to make workouts safe. It has become very popular for: Atheletes, Dancers, Seniors, Post-natal Women, and even People in Rehabilitation. Pilates is based on Core Strength focusing on deep internal muscles of the abdoman and back. When Core Muscles are strong, they work with the superficial muscles of the trunk to support the spine and movement.
Pilates develops stability throughout your whole torso. As your trunk is properly stabilized, pressure on your back is relieved and the body can move freely and efficiently. Instead of repetitions, each exercise is done fully and with precision.
Principals of Pilates:
Pilates exercises are sourced from the center of the body as a powerhouse.
Bringing full attention to the exercise with commitment, maximum value can be obtained.
Complete muscular control is used with every Pilates exercise.
Appropriate alignment of all body parts is achieved through sustained awareness.
Pilates coordinates full breath while pumping air in and out of the body as an integral part of Pilates exercise.
Fluidity, grace and ease are applied to all exercises to connect all body parts in an even way. This is often reinforced in the use of Pilates equipment like the reformer.
Yoga and Pilates both have well defined systems of integrative exercise. The differences of Yoga and Pilates make them very complementary. Pilates focuses more on strength and Hatha Yoga focuses on stretch although they both include these elements. Pilates often gives clients the stability they need to control and expand Yoga practise. The stretching in Yoga provides a balance to core orientated Pilates. Both Yoga and Pilates support development of long, strong graceful bodies without creating bulky muscles.
Begin your Pilates training by scheduling a Pilates session! Consult our session schedules and call for an appointment today!