WHAT IS PILATES?
Pilates was first created by Joseph Pilates, his teachings of “contrology” or better now known as Pilates took flight in the early 1940’s in New York working with famous dancers. Today Pilates is practiced worldwide and the benefits of Pilates aren’t just for dancers, for everyone alike.
Pilates is an intricate system of movement taught safely and effectively by certified Pilates teachers (CPT). There are several key points or otherwise noted as “principles of contrology”.
- Concentration- concentrate on the movement
- Control- “the mind controls the muscles”
- Centering- your “powerhouse” or “core”- the rectangular area between the shoulders and hips
- Flow- movements are done gracefully, smoothly and evenly
- Precision- “do not sacrifice knowledge for speed”
- Breath- a forced exhalation and a deep completed inhalation, both equal in length, each movement being tied to the breath
- Relaxation- using the correct muscles to produce the correct movement
- Stamina- endurance, “fatigue is one of the poisons of the body”
There are endless benefits to a Pilates practice; like anything continuous Pilates exercises performed several times a week will give you positive Pilates results.
Many of the Pilates movements emphasize the core, stabilizing, strengthening and toning from this center. As an extension of your core the legs are stretched, strengthened and toned. The upper body is worked evenly, spinal flexibility is increased, the hip joints are stretched, improved circulation occurs, deepened breathing takes place and an overall feeling of wellness takes place.
Pilates can be done by anyone, however if you have a serious medical condition check with your doctor before beginning a practice. If you think you are interested in Pilates or may already be doing Pilates check with the instructor and ask them if they are a Certified Pilates Instructor (CPT). If they are they will be happy to tell you, if their in-depth knowledge and skilled training has not already given it away.
For more information on Pilates, Yoga or classes/private sessions e-mail hzyoga_ryt@yahoo.com or call 262-670-6688