Curious about Pilates?
Is it just for women? Is it done only on the mat, in a group class setting? Is it all about stretching?
Pilates is a methodology that has spread all over the world, however, it's still not very clear to many people. So, let's talk about it and discover all the benefits it can bring to your life!
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a methodology of body conditioning designed by Joseph Pilates and formerly called Contrology.
It develops muscular strength, balance, flexibility and efficiency of movement whilst promoting body awareness.
A Pilates workout systematically addresses the whole body, utilising the power created by the core muscles, (deep abdominal and spinal muscles) to generate movement with stability, coordination and appropriate range of motion. Its goal is to make movement more efficient by positioning the body in optimal alignment.
Its former name 'Contrology' says a lot about the principles of the method, where intention and control are present throughout every exercise. And this is what the Mind and Body connection represents.
These benefits can reach not only people who needs to restore body motion, but also refine high performance movements involved in sports. So it's for anybody, young, old, man or woman!
"You are only as young as your spine is flexible"
Joseph Pilates
Mat or Apparatus?
Joseph Pilates developed a range of equipment that adds immensely to his original method on the Mat. The most known is the Reformer, but he also designed the Trapeze Table (also called Cadillac), the Spine Corrector, the Ladder Barrel and the Chair. All this apparatus provides an incredible variety of exercises and possibilities for all level of abilities, giving resistance (or assistance) while maintaining alignment and length.
The Mat exercises follow the same principles of the method and are performed on the floor using only gravity as resistance. Small equipment like elastic bands and balls can be added to provide variety and different stimulus.