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Info on Pilates

The method of accessing, strengthing and utilizing your deep core muscles was first called “Contrology” by Joseph Pilates. After Joe passed away in 1967 the term Pilates came into use.

So what is it?

Pilates focuses attention on core postural muscles that help keep the human body balanced and provide support for the spine. The exercises (either on the mat or on the machines) teach awareness of breath and of alignment of the spine, and strengthen the deep torso and abdominal muscles.

When we use these muscles in combination and understand our own body weaknesses & strengths we are able to exercise safely building strength and length. Pilates is suitable for any age and any level of physical strength.

Any of the following exercises are enhanced by utilizing core strength:

Why is it so good for you?

When our muscles are weak they make compensations for each other which lead to instability and injury. Take your back for instance: if your posture is bad, your lower back and hips will then adjust themselves accordingly which means they're essentially out of whack.

Pilates encourages you to think about how you perform everyday movements. It heightens your body awareness which in turn improves your overall agility, flexibility and strength. It helps you ensure your body is working at its optimal level all the time

Think of a tree, Pilates experts say. Does it have all its strength in its limbs? No. The tree is only as strong as its trunk and roots. Without a strong trunk, the tree would topple over. Instead of working major muscle groups in isolation, Pilates works the whole body in synergy, which is how we should be moving on a daily basis.

"A flexible muscle is a strong muscle," says Mary Bowen who trained with Joseph Pilates. "A hard muscle may feel good and give an interesting look, but if you don't have the flexibility and the balance and the functionality that you need to allow your body to function properly, sooner or later, it's going to show up someplace else."