What is ‘pilates’?
Pilates is a fitness program which focuses on not only improving one’s physical well-being but also on body awareness. Pilates is a non-mystical method based on a sound philosophical and theoretical base. Pilates, originally developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, follows the core principles of Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breathing, and Flowing Movement. Pilates referred to his method as Contrology, a way of teaching the mind to control the muscles. The ultimate aim of Contrology and the Pilates Method is to be able to automatically use one’s body to its fullest potential in every day life. Through control, precision, and fluid movements Pilates encourages economy of movement and good posture.
Practical Pilates
The Pilates Method was originally designed as a rehabilitation method for bed-ridden survivors of the 1918 influenza epidemic. As such, it was designed as a method of complete movement re-education as well as a method to build muscle mass. Most Pilates exercises are a series of calisthenic motions performed on a floor mat. Because this mat work was originally designed to be used in the confines of small hospital rooms, Pilates exercises typically involve fewer repetitions of low-impact movements that require a high amount of precision and control. Recently Pilates has been subjected to scientific research and is gaining acceptance in the medical profession. Many physical therapists today use Pilates as a key part of their rehabilitation processes. Dancers and professional athletes have trained themselves in the Pilates Method. Pilates has been shown to relieve back pain, increase physical strength, and improve flexibility, and as such is an invaluable tool to these professionals.
Sweet Medicine Essentials offers a full selection of Pilates training videos and training equipment- everything needed for either a current Pilate practitioner or someone interested in getting started.
Tags: , contrology, flexibility, pain, Pilates