“Strengthening From The Inside Out”
Originally created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s, Pilates is one of the most recognised exercise disciplines in the world. Why it has become so popular is because of the way it enables people to become more aware of their bodies imbalances and how through the pilates exercises, they can improve them.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
Pilates has may benefits. It can help to improve your posture, muscle tone, flexibility, circulation and concentration. Because Pilates focus on key postural muscles, it can help with back pain, sports injuries and movement quality. You tend to leave sessions feeling relaxed, energized, longer and taller.
How is Pilates different from other forms of exercise disciplines?
Traditional mind-body disciplines (yoga, tai chi, etc.) are based on ancient Eastern traditions which been followed for thousands of years. Whereas the Pilates principle has been adopted to fit in with more modern Western science and cultures such as ballet, gymnastics and boxing.
Pilates follows eight key principles:
Concentration – You become aware of your body alignment and movement
Breathing – Pilates focuses on rib cage breathing, which engages more of your diaphragm, improves your movement and relaxes your mind and body
Centring – activation of your core or as Pilates called it the powerhouse
Control – The movements are slow and performed under control
Isolation – Relaxing muscles that tend to be strong/tight and strengthening muscles that are weak/long
Precision – Pilates is very precise in nature
Flowing– The movements flow from one to the next, like a wheel they have no beginning or end
Routine – Pilates must be practiced regularly in order to perfect it and receive the benefits it can offer.
These principles all work together in order make your exercise more effective and beneficial.
How Does Pilates Work?
Pilates works on the deepest muscles in your body know as the Core. The core muscles are responsible for providing stability around the spine and pelvis which is where the body produces movement. Whether through physical or emotional trauma the core muscles can become less active which can result in your more superficial muscles doing more work.
These superficial muscles will become tired, strained, create imbalances and potentially cause pain related symptoms throughout the body. The pilates method allows you to connect with these deep core muscles again, which takes the pressure off your superficial muscles and gradually allows your body to become stronger, more toned and flexible.
Pilates can be put into two categories:
Apparatus Work – One to one orientated. This provides the body with more support and guidance, enabling the core muscles to become more active. This work is ideal for specific medical conditions, complete beginners to exercise and advanced exercises looking for a new challenge
Mat Work – One to one or class format. This uses body weight, gravity and small equipment to work and challenge your core. This work continues on from the apparatus work and is a long term solution to maintaining and improving your bodies health and wellbeing.
Pilates Classes Online and Physical
Physical classes are Held at Hazlemere Community Centre
Online classes are held on Zoom
Monday – 6.00pm – 6.45pm
Tuesday – 9.30am – 10.15am
Thursday – 9.30am – 10.15am
7.00pm – 7.45pm
Friday – 9.30am – 10.15pm (Energising Pilates Online Only)