PILATES
WHAT IS PILATES?
The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning is a training system that uses specially designed spring resistance-based equipment or specialized mat exercises to develop core and full body strength. The first emphasis is on building a strong, supported, yet supple spine. Gradually the entire body is challenged to connect into this strength and becomes more integrated and stronger as a result.
Pilates will strengthen and tone the entire body, with an emphasis on the core muscles (primarily the abdominals and inner thighs to support the back). It is not uncommon for pilates students to re-learn correct posture, realign to proper biomechanical patterns and gain inches in height after only a few months of regular pilates practice!
HISTORY OF PILATES
The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s as a way of strengthening, lengthening, and toning the entire body. The movements are flowing, precise, energizing, and challenging, and rely on a “mind-body” connection. It’s this mind-body connection that makes pilates effective and defines what pilates truly is. As Joseph Pilates once wrote, Pilates is “the complete coordination of the mind, body, and spirit!”
BENEFITS OF PILATES
Everybody including men and women, athletes, dancers, new mothers, office workers, the physically active and people recovering from injuries have all experienced the benefits of pilates at Millbrook Wellness.
PILATES BENEFITS INCLUDE:
⋙ Lengthen and strengthen muscles without building bulk
⋙ Tone the whole body with use of light weights and spring resistance
⋙ Increase flexibility, coordination, circulation, and overall health
⋙ Increase range of motion
⋙ Promote relaxation and well-being
⋙ Sharpened mental focus
⋙ Improve posture and alignment
⋙ Proper function and integration of all body systems: muscular, skeletal, respiratory, circulatory and nervous
PILATES HELPS:
⋙ Golfers improve their game
⋙ Runners, cyclists, skiers, tennis players and all other athletes reduce risk of injury by alleviating chronic ailments that result from asymetrical and/or repetitive movements
⋙ Women prepare for a healthy pregnancy
⋙ Anyone with bad backs decrease tension by building strength in the core muscles
⋙ Older adults improve balance and joint health
Dancers increase their spinal flexibility, core strength, range of motion, coordination and prevent chronic injuries