Healthandwellness

PILATES QUOTES

Some of my favourite quotes from Joseph Pilates:

 

"The mind when housed within a healthful body, possesses a glorious sense of power."
"In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a new body."
"Everyone is the architect of their own happiness."
"It's the mind itself which shapes the body."
"Patience and persistence are vital qualities in the ultimate successful accomplishment of any worthwhile endeavour."
"Contrology is complete coordination of mind, body and spirit."
"Change happens through movement and movement heals".
"If your spine is inflexibly stiff at 30, you are old. If it is completely flexible at 60, you are young."
"Every moment of our life can be the beginning of great things."
"The Pilates method teaches you to be in control of your body not at it's mercy".

"Physical fitness can neither be achieved by wishful thinking nor outright purchase." Joseph Pilates

WHY PILATES?

Often I get asked what's so good about Pilates? What will it do for me? So I have decided to write a blog post explaining what I believe the amazing benefits are and the positive, powerful effect Pilates can have on the mind and body.

Pilates was originally named 'Contrology'  by Joseph Pilates the creator of the exercise method around the 1920's. He based his whole system around people gaining complete control over their mind and body. Pilates teaches people to be aware of their body and to move mindfully.

The six key principles of Pilates are

  1. Centering (connecting the mind to the body and finding the core/ power house)

  2. Concentration (focusing deeply on the body and movement)

  3. Control (mastering control of the body and movement)

  4. Precision (gaining excellent body awareness resulting in precise form/movement)

  5. Breath (using the breath as a tool to help with movement and better circulation)

  6. Flow (moving freely with beautiful control and precision)

Pilates is amazing for men and woman and for all bodies. It used to be used primarily as a great tool for rehabilitation and for keeping dancers in great shape. Pilates is now becoming increasingly popular for all ages and fitness levels from the elderly to teenagers, pre and post natal women to elite athletes. Pilates is a full body workout. It targets all areas of the body and improves strength and flexibility in a balanced way. Pilates targets all of the muscles in the body including the small stabilizing muscles that are often left out in other exercise programs. Pilates has a huge focus on developing a strong powerhouse, (deep core muscles such as the gluts, inner thighs, abdominals, pelvic floor and spine). All of these muscles work together to create a strong foundation resulting in a healthy, balanced, happy body.

Here I have listed a few of the 100's benefits of doing Pilates on a regular basis:

  • Increased strength and flexibility

  • Improved posture

  • Better mind / body awareness

  • Improved alignment

  • Slimmer more toned physique

  • Strong core (PH)

  • Improves strength after having a baby safely

  • Joint health and spine health

  • Create long lean muscles (no bulk)

  • Improved energy for daily tasks

  • Great exercise method whilst pregnant

  • Better breathing patterns

  • Balanced full body workout

  • Increased circulation

  • Works on the deep stabilising muscles

  • It's loads of fun and a great challenge

  • There are lots of different pieces of equipment to use for variety

  • Better balance

  • Suitable for men and woman of all fitness levels

  • Improved mobility and stability

  • Lengthens the body (you will grow a few inches)

  • Excellent for injury prevention and rehabilitation

  • Improved confidence

  • Better sleep patterns

  • Improved co-ordination

  • Teaches discipline, patience, and focus

  • Enhances overall wellbeing