What is Pilates?

Pilates (pronounced puh-lah-teez) is a system of exercises developed by the German, Joseph Pilates during World War 1. The system was named after him but he referred to it as “Contrology.” He firmly believed that there was a definite connection between physical and mental health. The intent of these exercises was to strengthen both mind and body. If practiced consistently, Pilates will build strength, improves flexibility, and develop control and stamina. Pilates is practiced globally especially in countries in the Western Hemisphere. You can learn about the Pilates procedures and equipment used in the exercise programs at Pilatespal.com, Inc..   

Principles of Pilates

Joseph Pilates never created a system of beliefs for his method, but the principles included here are evident from the pages he wrote and other documented materials. There is no set order in which the principles are presented, the list here is as follows: breath, control, concentration, center, flow and precision.  These principles are the basis of many techniques of Pilates and they are normally accepted as the base of the system.

Breath

There is equal importance shared among the basic principles, but breath involves much more than respiration.  In Pilates, breath is the energy of the driving force and the engine that propels the art. It can be viewed (as regarded by Joseph Pilates) as of life, of the mind, spirit and body. Breath then is observed here as the mutual thread that goes through every foundation principle; joining them together.

Breath is an important key to life. The only skeletal muscles necessary for life are the respiratory muscles, but too often breath is taken for granted.  Understanding the anatomy essential to breath can assist in the optimum use of breath.

Concentration

The focus of this principle is the procedure involved in doing the exercise rather than on exercise itself. In this principle, it is important to concentrate on the body’s alignment, and keeping the correct alignment and equilibrium during the entire exercise session. It is vital that the practitioner maintains mental concentration throughout the session.

Center

In Pilates, a practitioner’s control of the body must begin somewhere: the center.  Of the Pilates method, the center is the primary point. The body’s “powerhouse” are the set of muscles in the middle of the body, those surrounding the abdomen, hips, upper and lower back, inner thighs and buttocks. In addition, center is the point where if the body was suspended it would be balanced fully in all directions. Learn more about Pilates exercises here:  https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Pilates

Control

“Contrology” was the preferred name given by Joseph Pilates for this principle. It focuses on muscle control. Every exercise is executed with control.  Control becomes refined with practice. Refined control is related to fewer errors, greater coordination, exact alignment, greater balance and improved ability to duplicate the exercise effectively over many attempts, by the use of minimal effort and evading unnecessary muscle tensions.

Precision

Precision is the precise manner by which an action is performed. The difference between precision and other exercise routines is the way it is done.  Knowing about anatomy will assist the practitioner in realizing precision.

Flow

Flow is effortless, continuous movement; a physical energy applied from the center that will direct movements of the extremities.  Achieving precision will ultimately lead to flow to and from and within each exercise to build strength and grit.

Equipment used in Pilates

The exercises are done on mats placed on the floor or on exercise apparatus developed by Joseph Pilates. These workout machines use pulleys and resistance from the body weight of the participant on the equipment and progressed spring levels. The reformer is most likely the most famous resistance equipment to be found in a Pilates workroom. Read here for more on Pilates.

Pilates is appropriate for both males and females whether you are a professional athlete or you are just an ordinary person or retiree trying to get back in shape. Pilates low effect and usefulness have made it the preferred foundation exercise techniques for many individuals around the world including celebrities.

When done correctly and regularly, and with the correct instructions that will assist you in embracing the main principles, Pilates will bring a change in your life. It will also enhance your lifestyle giving you healthy appearance.  

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