What is Pilates?

Pilates is a physical system that uses very specific targeted exercises to improve strength, flexibility and posture with particular emphasis on the core.  It’s one of the few exercise ‘systems’ that recruits practically every part of your body within every single exercise!

What are the benefits?

  • Builds core strength and stability
  • Improves posture and alignment
  • Increases flexibility, balance and coordination
  • Improves muscular balance and strength
  • Increases muscular endurance and tone
  • Prevents injury and heightens body awareness
  • Enhances athletic performance
  • Relieves stress and back pain
  • Helps you connect and bring an awareness of mind and body

The 5 basic principles of Pilates:

  • Breath

    The breath helps to engage the deep stabilising muscles of the core preparing the body for mindful and controlled movement.

  • Ribcage Placement

    Those all-important ribs, we often see them ‘flaring’ when exercising (like a soldier standing to attention!).  However, being mindful of their placement encourages correct alignment of the spine.

  • Pelvic Placement

    Neutral is the aim of the game allowing the deep stabilising muscles of the core to activate to their full capacity, stabilising the lumbo-pelvic region and allowing ease of movement.

  • Scapular (shoulder blades) Stabilisation and Movement

    An awareness of the shoulder blades and their correct neutral placement is key to ensuring that within Pilates and any form of exercise, you are able to execute exercises without tension in your neck and shoulders.

  • Head and Neck Placement

    The head and neck are an extension of your spine. As an extension it is important to ensure that they remain in alignment with the upper back.

Once all of the above are as familiar to you as breathing, you will learn to move with grace, good posture and strength not only in a Pilates class but in all areas of your life.

© 2021 Marina Inez Pilates