Created by Joseph Pilates in Germany over 125 years ago, the Pilates Method was developed as a system of 32 exercises designed to strengthen the mind and body as he felt the health of both were inter-related.
'Pilates develops the body uniformly, correct s wrong posture, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind and elevates the spirit' Joseph Pilates
His Method is a dynamic form of non-aerobic mind-body exercise suitable for all ages. Each movement is performed consciously with slow control and particular breathing patterns. During each class or session every muscle group in the body is worked with special attention to those that stabilise the joints.
The movements learned help to re-align posture and address how you sit, stand and perform everyday tasks. In time they become a way of life and are recognised by physiotherapists, osteopaths and medical practitioners as an effective preventative exercise programme and are often the first prescription for rehabilitation after injury.
Some Typical Exercises
The Shoulder Bridge
This exercise is primarily a spine mobility exercise but also works to strengthen the leg, hip, back and abdominals.
Seated Spine Twist
The Pilates spine twist exercise is a great beginning workout for anyone wanting to get into Pilates. It teaches the body to hold a strong sitting posture whilst rotating the spine using core muscles such as Transverse Abdminus and Internal Obliques.
The Teaser
This exercise has several levels to increase difficulty and works to strengthen the legs, thighs and abdominals and helps to find your centre
The Side Plank
This exercise has many levels to increase difficulty and works to strengthen the abdominal, back and shoulder muscles and is an excellent exercise to target the deep Transverse muscle that is core to posture and movement