Pilates

Pilates Principles

Joseph Pilates claimed that his exercise method has a theoretical and a philosophical foundation.

It is not just a collection of exercises, but it is a method that was developed and refined during its more than eighty years of observation and use.

One interpretation of the Pilates Principles is that it is similar to yoga.

Mind over matter – The central focus of Pilates is to create a blending of mind and body.

The body will move with grace, economy and balance without even thinking about it. The goal is to produce the union of mind and body that is totally attention-free.

Breathing – Through proper breathing the blood is able to work properly, that is, it circulates to every cell in the body and carries away waste related to fatigue.

You can be assured that a full and thorough inhalation as well as exhalation are part of each Pilates exercise. Breathing should also be done with control, concentration and precision.

Centering – The very large muscle group that is found in the center of one’s body is called the -powerhouse-.

All of the energy for the Pilates exercises begins from this powerhouse and flows toward the extremities.

Concentration – Pilates demands intense concentration or focus. The beginner learns to pay special attention to his or her body, building on small and delicate fundamental movements as well as controlled breathing.

Control – The Pilates method is built on the premise of muscle control. That means that each Pilates exercise must be performed with utmost control.

This will help avoid injury and produce beneficial results.

Precision – Each movement in a Pilates exercise has a purpose. No detail should be left out. The focus is to do one precise and perfect movement and not many halfhearted ones.

Pilates Tips

In order for you to get the maximum benefit from your Pilates workout, you may want to keep the following tips in mind:

• Stay focused.
• Pilates was designed so that your breathing rhythm combines with your body movements. Qualified Pilates instructors will teach you ways to keep the rhythm of your breathing in sync with the exercises.
• You will also be instructed to keep your mind on your muscles and exactly what you are doing. Pilates main goal is to unite your mind with your body. This helps to relieve anxiety and stress.
• Be comfortable!
• Wear comfortable clothes and keep in mind that Pilates is usually done without shoes. If you start to feel uncomfortable, experience pain or feel strained then it is time to stop.
• As you perform your Pilates exercises you should avoid any quick, jerky movements. Each movement should be slow, but it should still be strong and flexible.
• One of the cool things about doing Pilates is that you don’t have to break a sweat.

Since Pilates is mostly about strength & flexibility, you may wish to include your Pilates workout with an aerobic exercise such as fast walking or swimming.