About Pilates

Tools of the Trade

The Cadillac

Pilates is a unique exercise form which develops back strength and abdominal strength (combined, we call this Core strength), mobility, improved coordination, flexibility and alignment. It is adaptable and appropriate for all body types and sizes, with all limitations and injuries. This is a wide claim but with its origins in rehabilitation to the hospital infirm and bed-ridden, a wide variety of exercises has developed to facilitate the less able right to the very able in developing the gains made through Pilates training. Some exercisers will be very comfortable with Mat training while others find using the apparatus with a Trainer is where their greatest gains are made.

Joseph Pilates designed all the exercises in his Methods during WWI working as a nurse and caregiver in hospitals treating wartime disease and physical injury. With springs and cables and creating resistance/load to work deteriorating muscles and joints, Joseph Pilates created the ground work for our modern and evolved exercises which clearly have their origins in physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

Recognized are elements from Yoga, bodywork, breath work, gymnastics and resistance training. But more recently are further understandings of modern knowledge of biomechanics, strength and flexibility research. We find with the recognition of this focus, a growing awareness amongst Health Professionals lends itself to many referrals from massage therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, doctors and specialists.

We are experiencing an explosion in awareness of the benefits of Pilates - but is this for you? Do you still think Pilates is for the elite dance community? Or a favorite of the luxury spa and wellness centre clients? A cult for the over-privileged? Not so ... think again! With the aging of our population, and the increasing trend toward mindful, meaningful and intelligent exercise pursuits - we find Pilates offered for every pocketbook.

Everyone needs improved Core "functional" strength for everyday activities. As well, specific needs require specific training. Back pain, headaches, muscle balancing, injury recovery, improved flexibility, resume to work readiness, "reclaim your body after maternity", all are concerns real people have that can be addressed with Pilates exercises and intelligent training.

Abdominal and back strengthening and stretching are a focus in all this training - "all movement originates from the core".

Pilates is more than a trim tummy, tight shapely behind, sculpted long lean muscles in the arms and legs. Pilates is about the internal muscles that we call the Core, their improved strength provides for:

• a healthy spine
• better balance
• better coordination at all ages
• less muscle and joint pain
• less stiffness in everyday movements
• reduction in neck/shoulder tension leading to less headaches
• faster return to pre-pregnancy figure

The mind/muscle nature of Pilates training provides for a gentler and kinder form of conditioning the body. It enhances one's mental outlook and motivation, releases tension and boosts energy.