What is Pilates?

The Pilates Method is an innovative system of whole body conditioning based on the power of connecting the mind, the body, and the breath in a series of focused and precise movements.

It was pioneered by Joseph H. Pilates over seventy years ago. Joseph Pilates called his method Contrology, because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine.

Pilates develops strength, flexibility, and coordination while improving body alignment, awareness, and balance.

How Is Pilates Preformed?

Pilates is performed both on the mat and on specially designed apparatuses, which uses the resistance of springs to open and align the skeletal system while strengthening and balancing the muscular system , resulting in long lean muscles and flexibility.
Benefits of Pilates:

• Improved Postural Alignment, Flexibility, Body Awareness and Balance
• Decreased back and neck pain
• Toned, long, lean muscles without bulk
• Injury rehabilitation and prevention
• Increased Coordination
• Improved Core Strength
• Improved golf or tennis swing
• Refreshed mental and physical well being
• Almost anyone can do it!

Who is Pilates For?

Pilates can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities, whether they want stronger backs, flatter stomachs, are recovering from injuries or medical problems, or simply want to tone, strengthen or improve their health.

Pilates has helped many people become pain free and more mobile, and is particularly good for treating headaches, back and neck pain, lumbar instability, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and pelvic floor weakness. It is also a wonderful exercise system for reducing stress and tension Particularly great for tennis players, golfer, equestrians, and swimmers. It is also great for during pregnancy and post-pregnancy. 
Pilates and Pregnancy

Many women find Pilates to be one of best exercises to do, both during and after their pregnancy. One the top reasons Pilates and pregnancy go together so well is that Pilates is great at building core strength. If your abdominals, back, and pelvic floor/Kegel muscles are toned, they will support a more comfortable pregnancy and have more control during delivery. Pilates is also famous for helping new moms get their figures back after baby is born!

Another great reason to do Pilates in pregnancy is that Pilates is very adaptable. Most Pilates exercises can be modified as your body and abilities change. The modifications help you keep the intent of the exercise, but adjust the form to work for your body.
Can People Do Pilates if They Have an Injury?

Pilates is great for those recovering from injuries because it's adaptable enough to work around many injuries, allowing clients to still get good exercise, and the exercises themselves can be immensely helpful as part of a rehabilitative program. If you are injured, you should also be under the care of a medical professional who can help you determine what and how much exercise is safe for you to do.
How often should I do Pilates?

It depends on what else you are doing. Pilates can be a wonderful complement to any exercise program, promoting freedom of movement, coordination, stability and greater body awareness. If you are already exercising a few times a week, doing Pilates once or twice a week might round out your regimen. If you want to make Pilates the main component of your exercise program, we recommend three times a week at a minimum. This could be any combination of private sessions and classes. And we still believe you should still do something in addition to your Pilates program.