By Kevin Nguyen – Physiotherapist
Pilates was first developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. Pilates is a form of exercise inspired by calisthenics, yoga and ballet. It aims to promote whole-body mobility and strengthening through the 6 Classic Principles:
1. Centering – tightening body’s “powerhouse” for effective motor control
2. Concentration – building mind-body connections, down training aberrant movement patterns and upregulating desired ones
3. Control – maintaining posture during exercise
4. Precision – accuracy of exercise technique
5. Breathing – breath flow for effective deep muscular recruitment and enhancing focus
6. Flow – smooth transition of movements
Benefits of Pilates include:
- Core Strength – Pilates exercises can target core muscles to improve strength, posture, and reduce the risk of lower back pain.
- Flexibility and Mobility – Through a combination of stretching and slow-controlled movements, Pilates helps lengthen muscles and increase joint mobility. This enhances ability to complete daily activities and reduces the risk of injury.
- Posture – In our modern, sedentary lifestyle, poor posture is a common issue that can lead to discomfort and long-term health problems. Pilates encourages proper alignment and body awareness, helping individuals develop better posture.
- Stress Management & Relaxation – Focused breathing and concentration on movement help reduce stress. Practicing Pilates can be a calming, relaxing and meditative experience, allowing you to disconnect from the chaos of daily life.
- Balance and Control – Becoming more aware of your body’s movement and enhancing overall coordination.
- Rehabilitation or Prevention of Injuries – Pilates is low-impact; making it gentle on joints while still providing a challenging workout. Pilates can alleviate chronic pain and prevent injuries by promoting correct movement patterns and addressing muscular imbalances.
At Complete Health & Wellbeing, we offer a variety of physiotherapist-led Pilates classes tailored to your needs. So, roll out that mat, take a deep breath, and embark on your journey to a healthier you through Pilates.