Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. The discipline and practice is rooted in the principles of Concentration, Control, Centering, Breath, Precision, and Flow, with the emphasis on core strength, postural alignment, flexibility, mobility and controlled movement. There are a total of 34 exercises in the Classical Pilates repertoire.
Pilates can be performed on a mat with or without small props, including: a Magic Ring/ Pilates Ring for resistance and alignment feedback; a small ball/ stability ball for balance and core engagement; resistance bands to mimic spring tension or extend levers; a foam roller for release, spinal mobility and destabilising the position you are in, requiring deep core engagement.
In a Pilates studio, you might also find specialised equipment such as the Reformer, Cadillac, the Wunda Chair, and Ladder Barrel.
Pilates is about quality and awareness over quantity and how complex an exercise or sequence might look.
Through mindful, controlled movement, the benefits of Pilates make it an ideal practice for rehabilitation, overall fitness, and enhancing athletic performance.
