Through the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning this unique trinity of a balanced body, mind and spirit can ever be attained. Self-confidence follows.
JOSEPH PILATES
Direct benefits of pilates:
What we now call pilates is the ‘Contrology' method developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. This precise way of exercising focuses on improving core strength, balance, posture, flexibility and body awareness to support efficient and graceful movement in daily life.
Whilst some of the larger pieces of pilates equipment can look intimidating, mat pilates exercises only use limited, small, inexpensive equipment (if any) such as small balls and therabands. This means that the exercises are accessible to all and can be done anywhere.
Pilates classes
- Tuesdays 8.45–9.45am
- Stoke D'Abernon Village Hall
- £15 drop-in
- Thursdays 8.45–9.45am
- Stoke D'Abernon Village Hall
- £15 drop-in
- 1 hour
- 1:1 £50
- Duets £30 per person
- Trios £20 per person
Contrology
Joseph Pilates developed his exercise programme (which he named ‘Contrology‘) in the 1920s to help him overcome his poor childhood health and eventually becoming strong enough to establish himself as a bodybuilder, gymnast and professional boxer.
His approach followed 6 main principles of concentration (increasing body awareness & mind-body connection), breathing (movement coordinated with the breath and deep core engagement enabling breathing into the rib areas), centring (through strengthening the ‘core‘ or ‘pilates powerhouse’), precision (there is purpose to every movement), flowing movements (smooth and graceful, continuous controlled movement) and control (quality over quantity).
Whilst pilates was once perceived to be accessible to only athletes and dancers, it is now practised widely. It is frequently recommended by physiotherapists and other health professionals who value how it builds core strength, alignment and body awareness.
