Pilates is a gentle, non-aerobic exercise method designed to strengthen weak muscles, lengthen tight muscles and improve general posture. The aim of Pilates is to achieve a properly balanced body which results in improved joint mobility, firm musculature and a good natural posture. It is a very specific form of exercise which is safe and controlled as well as low impact and works on the principle of ‘gain with no pain’.
The origins of Pilates stem from early part of 1900 from its inventor ‘Joseph Pilates’ who as a child had been very frail but developed a technique of physical fitness. He developed his own approach to exercise and body conditioning which gained popularity as athletes found it the best way to recover from injuries and prevent recurrence. Over the years it has been developed and from the 1970’s on has become increasingly popular with the public.
All our Pilates classes (basic, intermediate & advanced) at the Loughbrickland Clinic are taken by a Pilates’ trained Physiotherapists in groups of a maximum of 5 people. 1:1 Pilates’ classes, if preferred, can also be organised by our physiotherapists.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM PILATES?
Anyone can benefit from Pilates as it is a very gentle form of exercise. Although if attending for a specific ailment or injury it is best to inform the physiotherapist prior to starting the class to ensure the most appropriate exercises are given to you.
WHAT SORT OF EXERCISES DO I DO?
Pilates focuses on building your body’s core strength and improving your posture through a series of low repetition, low impact stretching and conditioning exercises.
By core strength, we are talking about your back, abdominal and pelvic muscles. Through Pilates, you will be able to develop these muscles without adding bulk, increasing your flexibility and agility and at the same time toning your stomach and thigh muscles.
Pilates goes far beyond your core muscles however and not only provides a complete body workout but also helps you develop an awareness of how your body works, helping your mind and body to work in harmony resulting in an improved awareness of good posture.
THE EIGHT PRINCIPLES OF PILATES
Pilates is based on eight principles:
1. Relaxation
2. Alignment
3. Control
4. Precision
5. Routine
6. Breathing
7. Centring
8. Flowing movement
GETTING STARTED WITH PILATES
The best way to get started with Pilates is to join a class at the Loughbrickland Clinic where the classes (basic, intermediate, advanced) for both men and women are taken by physiotherapists qualified in Pilates training. For more details, please call 028 406 22411.