Pilates

The Development of Pilates:

The Pilates method was developed by Joseph Pilates back in the 1920’s. Joseph studied anatomy and draw inspiration from Eastern practices such as Yoga and Zen Buddhism. After being placed in internment in England at the outbreak of WWI Joseph began to develop floor exercises to stay fit, these exercises have evolved into what we know as Pilates mat work. He then went on to work with rehabilitating detainees who were suffering from diseases and injuries, it is during this time the resistance exercises used in reformer Pilates were developed.

After WWI, in the late 1920’s Joseph Pilates established the first Pilates studio in New York, developing and evolving the Pilates method of exercise, inventing the Pilates exercise equipment, and training students to carry on his teachings.

What Does Pilates Involve:

Pilates is an exercise style that involves training your muscles to improve posture and alignment. The focus is mainly on core strength and alignment, with the belief that when the core muscles are strong and working correctly the entire body is able to move freely and efficiently. Pilates is wonderful for people with injuries, weak muscles and bad posture, strengthening problem areas in a precise and deliberate way. This form of exercise also creates an awareness of the body, its limitations and weaknesses, which in turn help to prevent further injury.

Benefits:

Benefits include development of muscle tone, increased strength and flexibility and improved overall mobility and precision at which you move. Practicing Pilates provides a greater awareness of your posture, helping to restore postural alignment whilst toning and building long, lean muscles.