Pilates The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning focuses on six traditional principles: centering (the strengthening of core muscles – abs, lower back, hips, and buttocks – in order to coordinate movement, especially in the limbs); concentration (complete body awareness); control (movements are never sloppy or random); precision (every movement has a purpose); flow (continuous movement through proper transitions, leading to increased strength and stamina); and breath (coordinated breath and movement to oxygenate the muscles and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders).Pilates strives to strengthen the core, lengthen the muscles, improve posture, balance, and flexibility, and create greater symmetry between the right and left side of the body. Pilates utilizes a variety of specialized equipment and apparatuses invented by Joseph Pilates: Mat Work (the heart and soul of the method), Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, High Chair, Arm Chair, Ladder Barrel, Pedi-Pull, Spine Corrector, Barrel and Guillotine Tower. With over 500 distinct exercises, Pilates provides a low-impact, total-body work-in and workout. |