Pilates

What is Pilates?

Traditional Pilates exercises can be practiced on a floor mat using various props and equipment to either enhance the movements or assist with limitations. But what exactly is Pilates and how did it come about?

The Pilates program was invented by a man named Joseph Pilates, who had a firm belief that a lack of physical activity undermines physical health, especially in today’s world where our lives are now much less physically demanding. Our modern environments decrease our abilities to survive by contributing to weakness, stiffness, and weight gain in the body, including many various adverse and ongoing health issues. 

Like most exercises, Pilates poses and movements have specific names making them easy to identify and execute. The connection between body and mind is found by associating the breath with movement to maintain coordination, stability through holds, and motivation to push through these exercises. Pilates breath supports the movement by activating the muscles to uphold posture and centering the mind.