What is Pilates?
Pilates is a physical fitness system which was developed in the U.S. 70 years ago by Joseph H. Pilates.
His method was initially adopted by famous dancers and other sports professionals, until several years after it was acknowledged as a true revolution that spread all over the western world and gained international recognition.
The main principle and theoretical background in Pilates is control and stability of the core of the body—the abdomen. Pilates offers a total and uniform work-out for the whole body, while the feelings of well-being and vitality promote the complete control and synchronization in a relaxing and stress-free way.
Do I need to be experienced?
Pilates is addressed to everyone and is especially beneficial to all problems that stem from the modern way of life. Regardless of how fit you may or may not be, Pilates is the ideal workout that meets the demands of everyone ranging from people who lead sedentary lives to athletes. J.H. Pilates himself characterized his method as “mild for pregnant women,” “safe for the elderly,” and “dynamic for athletes and dancers.”
What are the benefits to the spinal column and my general health?
The exercises –focused on the core of the body (muscles of the abdomen, lower back and pelvis)– are based on ten principles:
1. Concentration
2. Breathing
3. Correct Body Posture and Postural Correction
4. Joint Stabilization- Joint Mobilization
5. Muscle Contraction- Muscle Relaxation
6. Control
7. Precision
8. Synchronicity
9. Endurance
10. Strength
Correct breathing is an inextricable part of performing the exercises. The control of the core, which functions like a “powerhouse” and supports the rest of the body, is the main axis of the Pilates method and the means to achieve its impressive results. Within a short period of time, each individual gains an unprecedented sense of movement control, newfound muscle control and body awareness; according to several recent studies, Pilates can have benefits for people who suffer from chronic pain in the spine.
