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Pilates was originally called “Contrology” and was invented by bodybuilder and gymnast Joseph Pilates.

Pilates is famous for toning abs and strengthening the “core”.

 

It is however so much more than that as Pilates also targets:

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• The lower back

• The pelvic floor

• The hips

• The glutes (the “powerhouse” as Joseph Pilates called it).

 

It is a low impact form of exercise that uses breathing and stretching to boost strength, balance and mobility. It is something that anyone of any age can do.

Pilates uses:

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• Slow, controlled and precise movements

• To strengthen the deep stabilising muscles (in the neck and shoulder, the spine and the pelvis.)

• This is important because these deep muscles stabilise and support your spine.

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When they switch off, pain in the lower back or around the pelvis is often the result. But it also, much more importantly, helps your body to function better and will leave it less prone to injury.

Another important area of emphasis of Pilates is on balanced muscles development.

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Imbalances in the body may occur as a result of:

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• Genetics

• The work that you do

• Or the sport that you play.

 

Pilates is a great tool for correcting these because the repertoire incorporates unilateral exercises (meaning you train one side at a time). Such movements highlight – and help to even up – any asymmetries in the body.

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Breathing and Pilates

Optimal breathing:

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• Helps to stimulate certain muscle groups

• Helps to carry oxygen-rich blood to nourish all tissues

• While removing impurities and metabolic waste.

• During exercise can improve muscle activation

• Which in turn gives greater local spine stability.

 

As such Pilates is also a very mindful form of exercise as you need to concentrate and focus in order to complete the workouts. It has been proven to help combat stress, anxiety and depression.

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Quite often surgery can leave a significant weakness in one area, having a stable and balanced ‘powerhouse’ pre-surgery can mean a quicker and more positive outcome for rehabilitation. Identifying and addressing any weakness prior to surgery can lead to a significantly better chance of full recovery.

There are many other amazing benefits to Pilates. These include (but are definitely not limited to):

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• Increased strength and control

• Greater flexibility and mobility

• Better posture

• Improved coordination

 

all of which can be carried into your everyday life.

“Change happens through movement and movement heals”
Josef Pilates

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