What is Pilates?
Pilates was created in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates as a form of physical exercise and rehabilitation. Some of the first people treated by Pilates were injured soldiers returning from war and dancers, such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine, to strengthen their bodies, heal their aches and pains and support recovery from injury.
Pilates has been used by athletes, dancers and physical therapists as a core part of their training regime since then.
Benefits Include:
Abdominal and core strength
Cardiovascular fitness
Muscular strength and flexibility
Postural alignment and balance
General health and wellbeing
Tones and sculpts the body
Enhanced self-esteem
Reduces the risk of injury
Weight loss
Rehabilitation and recovery from:
Injury/Surgery
“Beth’s Pilates is first class – always challenging; always fun.”
— Liz Mitchell
Muscle Strengthening
Pilates increases muscle strength and tone without creating bulk. It increases deep core muscle strength keeping abdominal muscles tight and toned and preventing the risk of injury.
Stability
Pilates works the whole body. Increased core strength in the deep abdominals creates greater stability and lessens the risk of injury.
Controlling Breathing
Controlled breathing in Pilates facilitates correct muscle activation and increases fitness and endurance.
Improves Posture
Pilates is the perfect exercise for improving posture and spinal alignment. Improved posture brings long-lasting relief from day-to-day postural aches and pains.
Full Body Workout
Pilates works the whole body. Targeted exercises lead to greater bodily strength, balance and cardiovascular fitness.
Conditions Body & Mind
Achieving greater mind-body connection is not only good for us physically but also increases mental clarity and relieves stress.