The Pilates technique was originally created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s, and it remains one of the most popular movement techniques in the world today. The principals of Pilates are breath, centering, control, precision and routine, they make it one of the best exercise methods. This technique provides a balanced environment for your body to successfully function in this stressful, busy world.
Another great advantage to the Pilates method is that it works so well for a wide range of people. Athletes and dancers frequently use it, as do women returning to fitness after pregnancy, people who are at various stages of physical rehabilitation and all age ranges.
If consistently practiced, Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance throughout the entire body. Pilates’ system allows for different exercises to be modified from beginner to advanced level, and also in terms of the instructor and practitioner’s specific goals and/or limitations. The intensity of the exexercises can also be increased over time as the body conditions and adapts to the exercises.
Many Pilates teachers refer to the group of muscles in the centre of the body – encompassing the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks, and inner thighs — as the “powerhouse”. All movement in Pilates should begin from the powerhouse and flow outward to the limbs. This is the main focus of Pilates. When these core muscles are strong and doing their job, as they are trained to do in Pilates, they work in tandem with the more superficial muscles of the trunk to support the spine and movement.
As you develop your core strength you develop stability throughout your entire torso. This is one of the ways Pilates helps people overcome back pain. As the trunk is properly stabilized, pressure on the back is relieved and the body is able to move freely and efficiently. As such, it is excellent for the rehabilitation of injuries, improving postural problems & relieving chronic pain all over the body.
We are running Pilates classes in the Prosperous Parish Hall every week. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evening classes and Wednesday morning class. The majority of my clients come from a background of low back pain, so my focus is helping them to restore movement and strength to their backs, to relieve and prevent back pain. Call me at the clinic on 045 841010 if you would like to join the class.
