Pilates is an exercise method that provides a whole range of physical & mental benefits, promoting health and wellbeing. It aims to encourage your mind and body to work together to improve your core strength, your posture, balance and flexibility. You will improve your joint mobility and stability, improve coordination and help relieve aches and pains. The method, originally called Contrology, was developed during the First World War by a visionary of his time, Joseph Pilates. A sickly child, he was determined to prove his doctors wrong, and dedicated his life to the study and practice of exercise, to return his, and others' bodies to peak physical condition. Originally used to rehabilitate injured soldiers, he realised the wider application of the method and opened a studio with his wife and business partner, Clara, in New York in the 1920s. Mainly catering to dancers initially, to help condition their bodies and overcome injuries, his teachings became hugely popular wth celebrities and the health conscious. Over the years, the Pilates method has stayed true to it's roots, but Modern Pilates has made use of advances in our anatomical and physiological understanding, to better cater to the wider public, so that now Pilates is the ideal exercise method for almost everyone, regardless of ability, age and fitness level.
Pilates is suitable for almost everyone. Regular practice will help you improve your body's functional ability to perform everyday tasks, reduce aches and pains and help reduce stress levels. My classes are suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced, as different modifications and progressions will be given so that everyone can work at their preferred level. The focus in Pilates is on performing each exercise in a controlled manner, being precise and ensuring correct form throughout, rather than trying to get as many reps in as possible but with poor form. Pilates is not a competition, and everyone will be at a different stage in their Pilates journey, so everyone is encouraged to focus on their own practice and gradually improving their individual strength, range of movement and posture.
Pilates is the perfect partner to other physical activities such as tennis, golf, running, cycling, swimming, and pretty much any sport you can think of! Many sports professionals are fans as they realise the benefits that Pilates can bring to their game, conditioning their bodies, improving their strength, endurance, agility and coordination.