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The originator of Pilates was a very interesting man by the name of Joseph Pilates. Joseph created an exercise system which he called Controlology. Originating in America in the 1920’s, Pilates has seen a huge growth in the last decade, advancing into the mainstream in the late 1990’s.
For the History of Joseph Pilates click here!
Pilates is a very intelligent form of exercise, connecting to the whole body. Harmonizing movement with the breath, through both inhalation and exhalation. Working with proper alignment and and balancing of opposing muscle groups. Basic Principles form the foundation on which all of the exercises are built.
Anatomically the the ideal posture for humans falls along a plumb line (line that runs down the side view of a person as well as front/back), alignment is paramount to the success of a Pilates session. Pilates professionals look at your alignment, and work with you to maintain good alignment throughout a session and correct any misalignment through structured exercises and muscle cueing.
Pilates Or Yoga
Which should you choose? Both are fantastic forms of exercise and doing either or both (not simultaneously, although it has been done, hence Yogilates!) will be of great benefit to anyone. Both are forms of mental discipline and are best explored with intention and consistency, only then can you see how much you will and are benefiting from undertaking a mind body practice. Only you know which will suit you best but here is a bit of a breakdown for you.
Pilates is based around ideal postural alignment and core abdominal connection. It is a constantly flowing form of exercise. The breath is purposeful and integrated into each movement. Ranges of motion are kept within a safe range. Much concentration is paid to each move, quality and precision over quantity of repetitions. Use of equipment in a Pilates studio is unique and challenging. The equipment is specialized and you will not often find it at your local gym. Words often associated with Pilates are Stretch, Strength and Control.
Yoga is a way of life for many (often considered a lifestyle). There are many varieties of Yoga and knowing which is the best suited for you is sometimes quite a challenge. In general though Yoga usually incorporates breath with movement, perhaps not as directly as in Pilates. There is also usually a spiritual element to Yoga, incorporating meditation and/or energy breath work. Having close ties to Ayurveda, Chakra Balancing and other healing arts. You can also find Yoga at a gym with no overt spiritual elements brought into the class, these classes are often called Power Yoga.
Ultimately with either form or posture, you will create a more intimate connection with your self. My philosophy, why choose at all when you can do both!
What to look for in an instructor?
Professional demeanor and appearance, ask to see their qualification certificate. The instructor should have invested a minimum of 200 hours to complete a proper certification. Someone who makes you feel comfortable and who challenges you to do the best you can! Someone who educates you as well as assists in helping you to succeed in your chosen areas. To find an instructor near you please see the Instructor page.
What to wear?
Please arrive on time or allow a few minutes prior to your booking time to change into the appropriate attire for a Pilates workout. No shoes are worn during Pilates, you go barefoot for all exercises. Socks are worn occasionally but sometimes need to be taken off for proper grip. Flexible pants or shorts (no cargos, or pants with zippers or many pockets, the instructor needs to be able to see your body and make subtle corrections to your alignment, its easier to see what’s going on if you wear non-bulky attire). A comfortable fitted tank top or T shirt will do.
How often?
It is recommended that you practice Pilates a minimum of 2-3 times a week or ideally 3-4 times per week, whilst also incorporating some cardiovascular activity 3-4 times per week based on your physical endurance and capabilities. There are many ways to add fitness into your daily regimen even when you aren’t expecting to call it a workout.
One great thing about Pilates is you can use the techniques trained to you during Pilates lessons and incorporate them into your favourite sport or activity.
For a Sport Specified Workout or training tips please contact me for further details!
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