Benefits of the Pilates Method

Connect the mind & body Creating mind to body awareness provides an understanding of how to initiate and control movement, focusing on how your body feels and where it is in space. Correct spinal and pelvic alignment is emphasized, while integrating breathing patterns essential to execute precise movements with efficiency and flow. Quality and control of movement is valued over quantity of repetitions. Pilates creates a sense of wellness through the physical, mental and emotional blending of movement and breath.

Sculpt long, lean muscles and increase flexibility Pilates elongates and strengthens, improving muscle elasticity and joint mobility. A body with balanced strength and flexibility is less likely to be injured and can perform in a more functional manner.

Develop a strong core Building on the principles of Joseph Pilates, Pilates exercises develop a strong "core," or center of the body. The core consists of a coordinated use of the abdominal and back muscles and pelvic floor. Control of the core is achieved by integrating the trunk, pelvis and shoulder girdle.

Create an evenly conditioned body In traditional workouts, weak muscles tend to become weaker and strong muscles tend to become stronger. The result is muscular imbalance - a primary cause of injury, back pain and lack of functional movement for every day activities. Pilates conditions the whole body, including the ankles and feet. Muscle groups are never over trained or under trained. Your entire musculature is evenly balanced and conditioned, helping you enjoy daily activities and sports with greater ease and less chance of injury.

Learn efficient patterns of movement Life is movement. Pilates exercises train several muscle groups at once in smooth, continuous movements. By developing proper technique, you can re-train your body to move in safer, more efficient patterns of movement, invaluable for injury prevention and recovery, sports performance, good posture and optimal health.

Challenge and ease for every level Pilates is an extremely flexible exercise system. Modifications to the exercises allow for a range of difficulty from beginning to advanced. It is an exercise system that is gentle yet challenging at the same time. Most of the exercises are low impact and partially weight bearing. Pilates is used in physical therapy facilities to rehabilitate injuries. Work at your own level, and increase the intensity as your body conditioning improves.