6 MAIN PRINCIPLES OF PILATES

Joseph Pilates is based on the following core concepts that set it apart from other systems:

Concentration

This is the art of being able to focus on one thing and block out all the other thoughts. In Pilates, the aim is to be able to focus fully on each movement, with one move flowing seamlessly into the next, bringing the mind and body together.

Breath

The way we breathe in Pilates is very important and a process some people find difficult at first. When doing Pilates exercises, we engage the deep abdominals and so it is important to focus the breathing into the rib areas. This is called lateral thoracic breathing.

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Centring

In Pilates, it is believed that all movement comes from a strong centre `core` which we can call the `powerhouse`. Every exercise in Pilates is controlled by the contraction of the deep abdominal muscles. Transverse abdominis, lumbar multifidus and the pelvic floor muscles are just some of them. In Pilates, we aim to strengthen these muscles.

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Precision

Correct alignment of the body is crucial while exercising. The positioning of the body and mastering the techniques within Pilates are the key to quality execution of the movements

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Flowing Movement

All Pilates exercises should be performed in a continuous flowing way, aiming to achieve controlled movement through the concentric and eccentric phases, resulting in a balanced and functional training programme.

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Control

All Pilates movements should be executed with complete control, focusing on quality rather than quantity. This lessens the risk of injury and assists in balancing weaker parts of the body by strengthening them. Controlling the movements requires concentration while also focusing on good technique and body awareness, thus bringing together many principles of Pilates.

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Today Pilates exercise continues to be popular with athletes and dancers, but it has crossed over from elitism and is a popular form of exercise practised widely by the general public.

Physiotherapist, Osteopaths and other health professional recognise and endorse Pilates exercise which is often used as part of a rehabilitation programme.