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Benefits of a Pilates Class
There are a lot of people in the public eye – actors, athletes, even some politicians – who are looking good right now. They’re walking taller and appearing more lithe and supple. For a growing number of these supposed über-folk, this can be attributed to regular Pilates. You’ll probably have seen the photo images advertising the power of Pilates showing poised, lean bodies balancing masterfully. This does give you a fair impression of what it’s all about. Pilates works on integrating the body with the mind and not only tones outer muscles but also the internal and less visible - but no less important - muscles (e.g. pelvic floor) so that optimum musculoskeletal form is restored. As well as being an excellent form of exercise, Pilates can also be instrumental in managing pain as well as in rehabilitating a variety of injuries because it is very low impact. (Some of the exercises were originally intended to assist the recovery of soldiers injured during World War I.) There are six key principles at the core (most appropriate!) of the Pilates Method:
1. Breathing
The pattern of controlled breathing required to fuel the moves increases internal oxygen flow. Your breath should be the life force of your movement. This assists with muscle control and invigorates the entire body.
2. Concentration
Concentration is the art of being mindful in ones entire self, that is to be present in ones body. Pilates focuses the attention so that the mind and body are wholly attuned and the mind is in constant conversation with the body.
3. Control
Joseph Pilates originally called his method ‘contrology’. It wasn’t until later that the exercise became eponymous. Developing overall muscle control endows the body with an improved capacity to ward off possible injury. As the biomechanics of the body improve there is less strain on joints and ligaments.
4. Centre
Pilates identified our ‘centre’ (or ‘core’) as comprising the abdomen, lower back, hips and buttocks. The modern day centre or "inner core" commonly refers to the deep transverse adbominius muscle, multifidous (deep back muscles) and the pelvic floor. Once this is understood and the core is strengthened, these areas then effectively become the ‘powerhouse’ of the whole physique so that the body is more aligned and better supported.
5. Fluidity
Seamless movements are conducted at a steady, even pace so that they flow smoothly from one to another. Pilates is concerned with physically powerful yet graceful dynamics.
6. Precision
Less is more with Pilates as it economises on physicality without impinging on effect. Every move serves a particular purpose with an emphasis being placed on quality and accuracy of movement so that all areas of your musculoskeletal structure are given a thorough workout.
