Pilates is a complete method that combines physical exercise, kinesiology and deeper knowledge of the body. As a method, it owes its name to the German Joseph Hubertus Pilates who is of Greek origin. He developed this method after carefully studying the way the Olympic champions of Ancient Greece trained as well as by immersing in the eastern philosophies.
Pilates came up with his method after carefully observing how the human body works. He named this method “Contrology” and described it as the art of improving and coordinating mind-body-spirit through approximately 500 exercises in which the body and the mind are required.
What the Pilates Method is…
The exercises are performed on a mat and on specially designed apparatus (Cadillac, Reformer, Chair). On the mat, the trainee uses the weight of his body as well as various equipment (miniballs, fitballs, flexbands, rings, toning balls). This makes the method easily adaptable to all body types and allows greater emphasis to be placed on specific parts of the body when deemed necessary.
Pilates combines elements of eastern and western philosophies. On one side of the spectrum, it is a path to tranquility emphasizing flexibility and concentrating on the center of the body. On the other side, it equally emphasizes movement, strength and muscle tone by focusing on strengthening the body (abdomen, lower back, hips) so that a person practicing Pilates is able to acquire a stable support center while simultaneously removing tension from the limbs. Breathing is a key element of this method.
Pilates is based on the following principles:
- CONCENTRATION – or focus of attention. A movement starts from the cerebral cortexes and not from the muscle. Therefore, you always concentrate on the movement you make by observing how connected each part of the body is with everything else. Awareness of the industrial movement of the body is the basis of the method.
- BREATH – “Squeeze every atom of impure air from your lungs in much the same manner that you would wring every drop of water from a wet cloth”, Pilates said, followed by a deep inhalation, removing the elements of fatigue. Each exercise of the method is accompanied by precise instructions for breathing. This will be further analyzed.
- CONTROL – Through concentration you can control each movement in detail avoiding harm and/or injury to the body.
- ACCURACY – By concentrating on the accuracy of each movement, you improve your body’s coordination the results of which can also be seen and felt in one’s everyday life. You benefit from grace and economy of movement. Movements become harmonious happening at the accurate speed and flow without interruption.
- CENTER – The human body has a natural center from which all movements originate. Pilates referred to this area as the “Powerhouse”. The abdominal, respiratory, pelvic and back muscles make up the Powerhouse. All the exercises of the method focus on the center. As it strengthens, tension leaves the limbs and the body moves more freely.
THIS IS WHY PILATES LEADS TO A THIN WASTE, a LEVEL STOMACH AND CORRECT BODY POSTURE, WITHOUT PAIN.
