Pilates is a complete exercise method developed by 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,r 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
Centering
Flowing movement
Getting Started With Pilates
The best way to get started with pilates is to join a class and learn the basics from a qualified pilates teacher.
Pilates classes are held up and down the country, either in studios equipped with specialist exercise equipment or in village halls and sports centres where mat work often takes precedence. Our Pilates Studio And Class Directory will point you in the right direction.
There are also many DVDs and books available for you to practice pilates at home. The Pilates Shop stocks hundreds of pilates titles as well as equipment such as mats and balls.