Pilates is a complete mind-body conditioning programme initially developed by its founder Joseph Pilates for rehabilitation purposes during the early twentieth century. It was later adopted by dancers as its philosophy blended well with their focus on core strength, co-ordination, flexibility and posture.
Pilates is based on a set of principles using a range of mat and equipment based exercises which work many muscle groups at the same time providing an all over body work out. Pilates combines the co-ordination of deep postural and stability muscles, breathing, and arm and leg movements with postural correction, suppleness and flexibility. Practicing Pilates helps you to strengthen and tone, address muscle imbalances, improve posture and abnormal movement patterns often acquired through today’s fast paced lifestyle.
As our understanding of exercise and rehabilitation has evolved, the way Pilates is delivered has been refined but still maintains its underlying key principles. More recently Pilates has been used by athletes, fitness enthusiasts and within the health rehabilitation sector. Scientific research is beginning to provide evidence of its effectiveness on reducing pain, improving physical function, movement and well being.
Pilates can be beneficial for virtually all ages, fitness levels and body conditions and can be adapted, modified and customized for individual needs.
