What is Pilates?
Pilates focuses on the abdominal region (commonly known as the powerhouse or core) as the basis of movement. Activating the core muscles begins in a precise and controlled method, sometimes called the “SCOOP” and works the deep abdominal muscles, hip/buttock muscles, shoulder girdle, pelvic girdle, and the muscles surrounding the spine.
By emphasizing proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely in tune with your body. You actually learn how to control its movement through the stability of your core muscles. In Pilates, the quality of movement is valued over quantity of repetitions. Some exercises are so precise and controlled doing only a few are all that is needed. Modification to the exercises is key here. The essence of Pilates remains the same, but it can be taught to the specific needs of an individual.
“You will feel better in ten sessions, look better in twenty sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.”
— Joseph Pilates
Pilates can
- Energize your body and mind
- Correct imbalance and increase body awareness, flexibility and circulation
- Improve your posture, poise, and alignment in everyday activities
- Provide relief from back, neck and joint pain
- Help to rehabilitate injuries and improve neuromuscular, joint and other movement dysfunctions
- Improve your overall fitness, muscle tone, strength and stamina
- Create a toned, lean and muscular body without building bulk and mass
