What is Pilates?
Pilates is a body conditioning method developed by Joseph Pilates that targets deep postural muscles to encourage correct movement patterns, alignment and muscle balance. It aims to develop your body awareness, improve your posture and integrate your mind and body.
Pilates focuses on elongating, stretching and strengthening the whole body to improve muscle strength, balance, flexibility and posture. Classes will focus on specific areas individually whilst using exercises which integrate the whole body to re-educate and restore it to optimum function – it is this holistic approach that sets Pilates apart from many other forms of exercise. Chiropractors, osteopaths, physiotherapists and GPs recommend Pilates as being one of the safest forms of exercise, and indeed one of the most beneficial for everyone regardless of age and fitness level.
One of the best things about the Pilates method is that it works so well for a wide range of people. Whether you are wanting to get back into shape after having a baby, recovering from an injury or illness, have a back problem, whether you are young or old, very fit or have done very little exercise in the past - Pilates is a great form of exercise for you. All the exercises are developed with modifications that will make them safe and challenging for a person at any fitness level.
Core strength is the foundation of Pilates exercise. The core muscles are the deep, internal muscles of the abdomen and back. When the core muscles are strong and doing their job, as they are trained to do in Pilates, they work in tandem with the more superficial muscles of the trunk to support the spine and movement.
As you develop your core strength you develop stability throughout your entire torso. As the trunk is properly stabilised, pressure on the back is relieved and the body is able to move freely and efficiently.
The Benefits of Pilates:
"Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. In order to achieve happiness, it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong, then you are young." Joseph Pilates
Pilates is beneficial for general fitness, can help with specific health conditions and most of all, is great for your overall wellbeing. Let's take a closer look at some of the benefits of Pilates:
Your General Fitness
- Improves your posture
- Improves mobility and flexibility of the spine and joints
- Develops muscle tone, promotes an efficient and supportive core
- Builds longer, leaner muscles
Health Conditions
- Aids balance and co-ordination
- Is a safe and effective form of exercise for a wide range of medical conditions
Overall Wellbeing
- Makes you look and feel better
- Relieves stress and tension and promotes a feeling of wellbeing
- Enhances body awareness
- Integrates mind and body
- Improves quality of life
To find out how Pilates could benefit YOU, book now for one of our Pilates classes in Derby or contact Louise to find out more.