What is Pilates Exercise?

Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, who in the 1920’s created his system of exercises, now known as the Pilates Method. He first helped patients in an infirmary to regain strength and mobility and to overcome illness and disability, eventually setting up the first Pilates studio in New York, where his highly successful method attracted professional Dancers, Actors, Athletes and Gymnasts.

The Pilates method of exercise is now a recognised and respected method of mind-body conditioning, recommended by GP’s, Physiotherapists and Osteopaths.

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Pilates helps build a strong core - those abdominals that support the pelvis and the spine and promotes joint health. Mat or floor based exercises can be learned and performed with modifications to suit the needs of the individual, which can then later transition into new positions and exercises with some flow from one movement to the next. The flow centers around control and precision of all the movements. The ultimate mind-body form of exercise with a diversity of exercises to suit a range of levels from beginner to advanced and all ages and abilities. Pilates is a form of body conditioning that feels good and fits everyone with motivation towards a healthy lifestyle and can be particularly useful to those with a keen interest in any sport activities such as Golf, Skiing, Horse Riding, Ice Skating and Dancers to mention just a few.

Why do Pilates?

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You don't need to be flexible to benefit from doing Pilates! 

Pilates exercises can be modified so it can be suitable for all ages and levels of ability

• IMPROVE POSTURE

• MUSCLE STRENGTH

• JOINT MOBILITY

• FLEXIBILITY

• BALANCE

• STABILITY

• BONE DENSITY & JOINT HEALTH

• IMPROVE BREATHING & CIRCULATION

• STRESS RELIEF & IMPROVED SELF ESTEEM

• REDUCE MECHANICAL BACK PAIN

Private 1-1 or 2-1 tuition versus larger group sessions?

Pilates exercises can be taught in group Pilates fitness style classes that are more generalised, but also Pilates is commonly taught in a private 1-1 or 2-1 Semi-Private tuition setting to provide closer Teacher supervision and it provides the ability to have a range of exercises tailored specifically to suit the needs of the participants. Also an ideal way of learning and practicing but not exclusively to when extra caution should be adopted,  in times to address specific problems such as some musculo-skeletal problems, postural issues, injury prevention, rehabilitation after injury, and post operatively for recovery.

Private or Semi-Private tuition can be really advantageous as the teacher can provide more attention to the individual(s) and offer more corrections and assistance where required to maximise the benefit of each session. The exercises, pace and intensity are chosen carefully to suit the ability and aspirations of the participant(s). 

Pilates exercises can be done whilst lying on a mat on the floor known as Pilates Matwork and also using a variety of small or much larger equipment.