PILATES – AT THE PHYSIO GROUP CLINIC
PILATES
Pilates is an exercise based therapy which is designed to strengthen, elongate and restore the body’s muscular Skelton system into balance.
The origins of pilates stem from early part of 1900 from its inventor ‘Joseph Pilates’ who as a child had been very frail but developed a technique of physical fitness using experiences from classical Roman to body building to martial arts.
He developed his own approach to exercise and body conditioning which gained popularity as athletes found it the best way to recover from injuries and prevent recurrence.
Over the years it has been developed and from the 1970’s on has become increasingly popular with the public.
WHAT IS PILATES?
It is a gentle, non-aerobic exercise method designed to strengthen weak muscles, lengthen tight muscles and improve general posture. The aim is for a properly balanced body which results in improved joint mobility, firm musculature and a good natural posture. It is a very specific form of exercise which is safe and controlled as well as low impact and works on the principle of ‘gain with no pain’.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM PILATES?
Anyone can benefit from Pilates as it is a very gentle form of exercise. Traditionally the classes tend to be female dominated and there is still a tendency for Pilates to be avoided by men, however top premiership footballer Steven Gerrard is joining the growing list of sportsmen who are extending their career through incorporating it into their regime so we encourage everyone to the class.
Although if attending for a specific ailment or injury it is best to inform the teacher prior to starting the class to ensure they can tailor certain exercises to specific needs.
WHAT EXERCISES DO I DO?
Pilates is a complete exercise method developed by its founder Joseph Pilates over the course of a lifetime dedicated to improving physical and mental health. Pilates focuses on building your body’s core strength and improving your posture through a series of low repetition low impact stretching and conditioning exercises.
By core strength, we are talking about your back, abdominal and pelvic muscles. Through pilates, you will be able to develop these muscles without adding bulk, increasing your flexibility and agility and at the same time toning your stomach and thigh muscles.
Pilates goes far beyond your core muscles however and not only provides a complete body workout (you will be working muscles you didn’t even know you had!), but also helps you develop an awareness of how your body works, helping your mind and body to work in harmony.
THE EIGHT PRINCIPLES OF PILATES
Pilates is based on eight principles:
- Relaxation
- Alignment
- Control
- Precision
- Routine
- Breathing
- Centring
- Flowing movement
Should you wish to find out anymore about the benefits of pilates do not hesitate to contact our main office on 02830269733