The method
originated in the works of Joseph Pilates, born in Germany in 1880, who
suffered from ill health. He was determined to devise a regime for himself
that would improve his well-being. He engaged in several different sports
and from these experiences devised his own original method comprising 34
exercises. He set up his first studio in New York City, which soon became
the place for actors, singers and dancers to fortify their
bodies.
Today’s Pilates
techniques are based on Joseph Pilates’ original routines. They are
performed on a supportive mat and aim to strengthen, balance, align and
lengthen the body. Thanks to the slow, fluid and controlled movements, the
Pilates method is a wonderful way to improve core strength, enhance
posture and increase body awareness. The technique will reduce tension,
strengthen the deep postural muscles and increase flexibility. It is a
non-impact technique with no added stresses on joints. This means it is
also suitable if you are new to exercise, recovering from injury or
returning after a rest period.
As an exercise system, Pilates
combines the best of two worlds: you feel the intensity of the exercises,
but it still offers a mind-body connection. Nowadays it is recognised that
you achieve what you put in. There is no guarantee as to how long it will
take you to achieve your desired result. In our experience, taking lessons
more than once weekly significantly increases the speed at which you learn
and achieve results.
