About Pilates
Pilates is a mind-body exercise programme based on the philosophy and teachings of Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1880 – 1967). The aim is to develop a strong physical core or centre from which muscular imbalances can be corrected and postural alignment improved.
Benefits include increased:
- Range of Motion of joints
- Strength and flexibility
- co-ordination and balance
- Concentration
- Breath control
- Postural awareness
Pilates helps reduce:
- Stress and tension
- Fatigue
- Back, neck and shoulder pain
- Waist line
Pilates teaches ‘stabilising before mobilising’ therefore giving you control of your body allowing you to handle everyday stresses more effectively, relax more easily and cope with the physical demands of everyday modern living whether at home or at work.
It is a safe method to follow at any age or level of fitness, also through the pre and post-natal period and is a wonderful way to regain strength and tone after the birth.
Pilates is an excellent way to help reduce injury and enhance performance in dancers and people who take part in both professional and amateur sports at every level.
The value of Pilates is now more widely recognised by health professionals many of whom now recommend Pilates as an ideal form of remedial exercise as well as for general fitness.
Clinical Pilates
If you are recovering from surgery or injury there is strong evidence that a course of modified Pilates exercises can be beneficial. These classes are usually offered on a private or studio basis and consist of a series of graded exercises to stabilise and then strengthen key areas.
