Pilates is a method of movement founded by Joseph Pilates over 100 years ago. Joseph Pilates was born in 1883 in Germany and grew up with multiple health problems such as rickets, asthma, and rheumatic fever. Determined to overcome them, Joseph developed an exercise programme to assist him in restoring him to optimal health.
During the First World War, Joseph continued to develop his programme as a prisoner of war. In the camp, many of his fellow prisoners needed physical rehabilitation. This is where Joseph noticed that where there was weakness or misalignment in the body, an individual would overcompensate resulting in overdevelopment of other areas. Joseph believed that true well-being could be achieved through physical and a positive mental attitude.
Pilates was first named Contrology and was a slow, controlled movement focusing on strengthening the core muscles responsible for stabilising the spine, aiding in realigning the body and addressing postural issues. It was after Joseph’s death that the name changed to Pilates.
Pilates can be practiced on the mat using only body strength or equipment, or using reformer machines, but the principles remain the same: balance, posture, strength, and flexibility. Pilates is suitable for all ages and fitness levels as the 34 exercises can be adapted. The programme is not a cardiovascular workout and aims to work multiple muscles through each movement within the main phase.
At the studio, we offer a wide range of Pilates classes, from classical to modern. It might be something you have thought about doing but haven’t got around to, or you find yoga is more for you. Practising Pilates alongside yoga has been proven to strengthen the core and alignment of the body to aid in the more difficult postures in yoga.
We now have more Pilates classes than we have ever had before, each teacher offering their unique style.
Written by Rowena Kelly and published on Thursday 11th April 2024 at 16:00
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