Pilates
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise method, designed to elongate, strengthen and restore the body to balance. Based upon an anatomical understanding of the body’s muscular and skeletal systems, the Pilates teacher creates a comprehensive exercise programme for the client. Classes will focus on specific areas individually, whilst using exercises that integrate the whole body to re-educate and restore it to optimum muscular and skeletal function.It is this holistic approach that sets Pilates apart from many other forms of exercise. Osteopaths, physiotherapists and general practitioners recommend Pilates as one of the safest forms of exercise today. Pilates can be beneficial for just about everyone, regardless of age and fitness level.
The Pilates Foundation®
The Pilates Foundation® is an international, professional organisation for Pilates teachers and training, and it is the only Pilates organisation that is recognized by the NHS Trusts Association in its Directory of Health Service Providers. Established in 1996, it brings together qualified Pilates teachers who are passionate about delivering the highest standards of training and practice of Pilates, and to maintaining the principles and integrity of the work. As a not-for-profit organisation, the Pilates Foundation® is committed to establishing and maintaining certification and continuing education standards at the very highest level. Their aim is to protect and benefit the community they serve. All Pilates Foundation® teachers are accredited members of the Pilates Foundation® and must follow a strict Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct.
The Benefits Of Pilates
Pilates is beneficial for general fitness, specific health conditions and most of all for your overall well-being. It corrects postural alignment
and facilitates fluidity of movement, thereby enhancing grace and coordination.
General fitness
- Improves your posture
- Improves mobility and flexibility of
the spine - Delivers muscle tone and flexibility
- Promotes a more efficient and
supportive core - Increases stability for the pelvis
and shoulders - Fosters the health of joints through improved mobility and support from the surrounding musculature
- Complements training for athletes
Health conditions
- Facilitates injury prevention and physical rehabilitation
- Builds better balance and coordination, particularly for the elderly
- Offers a safe and excellent form of exercise for ante and post-natal women
- Alleviates aches and pains
- Helps maintain and can improve
bone density - Develops the function and efficiency of the lungs with improvement in circulation
- Offers a safe and beneficial form of exercise for a wide range of medical conditions, including Scoliosis, Osteoporosis, Arthritis, and
Multiple Sclerosis.
Overall well-being
- Makes you look and feel better
- Relieves stress and tension and promotes a
feeling of well-being - Expands body awareness
- Integrates mind, body and spirit
- Improves quality of life
