What is Pilates?

Pilates is a system of exercises, which focuses on developing the core muscles of the body in an integrated, functional manner. The core muscles are those that attach to the spine and hips including the upper postural muscles, abdominals, pelvic floor and back muscles. With core strength and stabilization, we can move our limbs more effectively and efficiently. This allows us to perform everyday tasks with less fatigue as well as enhances performance in sports and other physical activities.

Pilates training focuses on working from the inside out to establish alignment and create a girdle of strength, which is the starting point of each exercise. It re-establishes the coordinated function of the back, pelvis, shoulder girdle and arms. Energy originates from the center and flows outward to the extremities.

The Pilates system was developed by Joseph H. Pilates. Joseph was sickly as a child and was drawn to physical fitness to help improve his health. Over the years, he studied both Eastern and Western forms of exercise including Yoga, Zen, and ancient Greek and Roman regimens. From his studies of exercise and anatomy, he developed a system called "The Art of Contrology", which described his approach of using the mind to master the muscles.

In 1926, Joseph emigrated to the United States and began working with dancers and other performers. In recent years, Pilates has gone "mainstream" as we search for an integrated mind/body workout. Today, Pilates has evolved into several styles, but the basic principle of a strong core remains.

Pilates exercises may be performed on a mat with little to no equipment or on a Pilates Reformer machine. My classes consist of matwork exercises with a few simple props to aid in proper body alignment. We perform these exercises in comfortable exercise clothing (long pants are better) and bare feet. I provide the mats and props.

Benefits of Pilates

• Improved muscular strength, endurance and flexibility.
• Improved postural alignment.
• Improved breath control.
• Enhanced quality of overall movement.
• Reduced stress levels, fatigue and pain.
• Minimized injury risk and facilitated rehabilitation from injury.

Please see Class Schedule for the next scheduled courses.