Pilates consists of over 500 exercises done on the floor or primarily with customized exercise equipment. The exercises combine sensory awareness and physical training.
Jennifer Dufton has written: 'The Pilates difference' -- subject(s): Mind and body, Physical fitness, Pilates method
The Pilates Method is the ultimate mind-body exercise for those who want to tone, streamline, and realign their body. The focus of The Pilates Method is core stability through conscious exercise that emphasizes strength, flexibility, balance, and improved body awareness.The Pilates Method strengthens, tone and stretches muscles by using the body’s own resistance in a series of fluid, controlled, and coordinated movements that engage the body and the mind.The Pilates Method was invented in the early 20th century by German athlete Joseph H. Pilates, who designed a series of exercises to help balance the body, improve range of motion, flexibility, strengthen and tone muscles for an overall balancing of the body & mind. The original method was known as Contrology, today it is known as The Pilates Method, found and practiced by people worldwide.
Joseph Pilates Pilates, pronounced "Pih-LAH-Teez", is a physical fitness system, developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It is an exercise program that focuses on strengthening the core postural muscles to support the spine.
The Pilates Method originated from Joseph Pilates himself. When coming up with his method first known as "contrology" he studied: ancient grecian regimes, yoga, boxing and various other forms of exercise.
Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, with its roots tracing back to the 1920s when he opened his first studio in New York City. Initially designed as a method for rehabilitation and physical conditioning, it has since evolved into a popular form of exercise worldwide. Today, Pilates is recognized for its focus on core strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness.
The Pilates Method
Essentially, The Pilates Method main focus is on the core or powerhouse which are made up of the abdominal muscles, lower back, and pelvic region. However, Pilates does not stop at core work alone. Structural integration, and learning to create a flexible, strong body that can move freely and efficiently are important goals of The Pilates Method. By focusing on breathing, spinal and pelvic alignment, and developing a strong core The Pilates Method helps to improve overall coordination and balance. When practiced regularly The Pilates Method tones, elongates, strengthens, improves flexibility, balance and concentration while decreasing aches and pain in the body.
The advantages of doing pilates is not only the physical aspect of looking good but that it corrects postural alignment. Pilates can help improve the way you move and present yourself.
The Dewey Decimal Classification for Pilates is 613.71. This classification is under the broader category of Physical Fitness and Exercise.
Pilates is not a "weight loss system." Pilates is a system of physical fitness developed by Joseph Pilates in Germany before WWII. Today, there are more than 14,000 Pilates instructors in the U.S. alone and more than 12 million people who practice it.
While forms of exercise are beneficial. The Pilates Method will provide a better sense of core & stability.
All movements/exercises of The Pilates Method start from the "center" the core and work-outward creating long lean muscles.