Pilates

Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany, the UK and the USA.

Pilates called his method Contrology (from control) because he believed that his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The Pilates method increases strength, flexibility and control of the body. Pilates is a body conditioning routine that helps to not only build flexibility, but also strength, endurance, and coordination.

The Pilates method seeks to develop controlled movement from a strong core and it does this using a range of apparatuses to guide and train the body. In Pilates props are used, including small weighted balls, foam rollers, large exercise balls, rotating disks, and resistance bands.

The focus is on concentration, and breathing and the way that exercises are done is more important than the exercises themselves.

Gaining control of every aspect of every moment helps the muscles to lift against gravity and teaches you to be in control of your body and not at its mercy. In order to attain control of your body you must have a starting place: the centre. The centre is the focal point of Pilates i.e. those muscles in the centre of the body – encompassing the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks and inner thighs – the “powerhouse”. All movement in Pilates begin from the powerhouse and flow outward to the limbs.

Pilates is taught every Wednesday afternoon by Monique. See the timetable for more information.