Why
the Pilates Method?
"The
only true guide to your true age lies not in years, but indicated
by the degree of natural and normal flexibility enjoyed by your
spine throughout your life."
~ Joseph Pilates
Pilates
focuses on improving flexibility and strength, so short muscles
get longer and weak muscles get stronger, without building
bulk. Your spine and muscles will enjoy a sense of freedom,
comfort and length right after the very first session. You will
also become more aware of your body, dramatically improving posture
and coordination.
Unlike
traditional exercise which tends to overload the large muscles
in the body, Pilates enables you to strengthen smaller muscles
to support your movement and create a Body in Balance which
stems from your abdominal muscles.
Unlike
other forms of training, Pilates enables you to use your own resistance
and strength with fewer more precise fluid movements. As Pilates
requires concentration and proper form on each exercise, the
method becomes a total mind/body experience, with mental
health advantages as well.

Lou
demonstrates the Kickback mat exercise...

...and the Side
Support mat exercise.
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"It's
the mind itself which shapes the body." ~ Joseph Pilates
Joseph
H. Pilates designed his series of controlled exercises, engaging
the body and mind, for the floor and on specifically designed
exercise apparatus. While rehabilitating disabled people
during World War I... Joseph began to create his exercise
regime that he is famous for today. He attached springs
to hospital beds to provide resistance which helped the patients
regain back their strength and flexibility.
His
work quickly gained popularity with dance legends such as Martha
Graham, Balachaine, Alvin Ailey and many others. Although
the Fitness Industry and Medical Profession have just begun
to recognize the benefits of this amazing discipline, many
dancers have considered Pilates an integral part of their training
for many years.

Joseph
Pilates demonstrates the Kickback and Side Support exercises
on the Reformer.
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