WHAT IS PILATES?

Imagine an exercise regimen that you actually looked forward to attending. A program that engages your mind and body, leaving you feeling refreshed and invigorated, and in a state of physical and mental well-being. The Pilates system (pronounced puh-lah-tees) of body conditioning offers this, and more.

The Pilates system is a total body workout that focuses on improving strength and flexibility, while the natural curves of the spine are restored. With specifically designed equipment and the supervision of a certified Pilates instructor, slow controlled movements requiring intense concentration and coordinated breath are performed.

WHO IS JOSEPH PILATES?

While interning in England during WW1, Joseph H. Pilates became a nurse. Using hospital beds and springs he designed an exercise program for immobilized patients that worked to reawaken their bodies through movement, and their minds through conscious thoughts. This method formed the foundation for his style of total body conditioning and specialized equipment. He introduced his unique method of exercise in New York in 1926, and in no time a who’swho of the sports and entertainment world were practicing Pilates.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS PILATES?

• Improves Posture

• Heightens body awareness

• Improves coordination and circulation

• Increases flexibility and agility

• Creates longer leaner muscles

• Easy on joints

• Strengthens core

• Improves quality of life

WHATS IS THE DIFFERENCE FROM OTHER WORKOUTS?

Unlike weight training, where typically one muscle group is focused on at a time, Pilates focuses on the “core” stability (abdomen, low back and buttocks), as the limbs work at the same time. Instead of doing multiple repetitions with weights, fewer precise moves are performed . Long, lengthened muscles are obtained verses bulky. It is traditionally practiced one on one, or in a small supervised group with the appropriate apparatus. With over 500 exercises, one is highly unlikely to become unchallenged or bored. Since Pilates is non-aerobic, adding cardiovascular exercise to your workout is an ideal combination.

WHO IS IT FOR?

Regardless of your current level- from sedentary office worker to fitness enthusiast, a program can be designed for you to meet your specific needs and goals. Pregnant women can safely use Pilates as a means of achieving proper breathing techniques and body alignment, improve their concentration, and recover body shape and tone. It is also a very rehabilitating form of exercise. When doing any type of workout, remember to listen to your body and only do as much as you feel comfortable with.