Introduction to Pilates

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“Contrology is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit. Through Contrology you first purposefully acquire complete control of your own body and then through proper repetition of its exercises you gradually and progressively acquire that natural rhythm and coordination associated with all your mental and sub-conscious activities.”
(Joseph Pilates 1945)

Everyone is unique, our minds and bodies are shaped by time, our environment and the pressures of daily life. Joseph Pilates’ antidote to the stresses of life was outlined in his publication in 1945 ‘Return to Life through Contrology’.

Today, his method lives on – we now refer to Contrology as ‘Pilates’ after the man who developed it. The method focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine.

 

 

 

 

Pilates benefits

pilates_for_pregnancyWhether you’re an elite athlete or a pure beginner, you can benefit from Pilates. As Pilates is a non-impact resistance workout, it allows you to exercise whilst minimising stress on your joints, thus making it safe, versatile, and effective for a range of fitness and rehabilitative goals.

Pilates is a body-conditioning technique that strengthens the core postural muscles, achieving the perfect balance between strength and flexibility.

 

 

 

 

Pilates enables you to:

  • Improve your posture and overall body awareness
  • Corrects muscle imbalances, improving body alignment
  • Reshape your body which will become leaner and more toned as you progress
  • Engage the deep core stabilising muscles
  • Relieve unwanted stress and tension

 

 

 

Who is it for?

pilates_for_kidsPilates is a progressive form of exercise so is suitable for those wishing to get back into shape. It is also ideal as a safe way of cross-training for those who already exercise regularly and is widely employed throughout the sporting world to enhance and compliment existing training programmes.

It is especially recommended after pregnancy. Pilates is widely recognised by health professionals in the positive management of back and joint pain. It is also recommended as a safe method of rehabilitation following injury.In my pilates classes I have taught a range of ages and abilities – from young children coming to summer classes with their mums, to a 13 year old international wind-surfing champion, tri-athletes, elderly patients in hospital, people recovering from injuries and operations, pregnant ladies, and of course, normal people of all ages who just want to keep themselves moving.

So basically, Pilates is for everybody!