What is Pilates anyway?

Are you looking to find a way to restore balance in your life and renew your mind and body? Consider trying Pilates.

As a dancer, I have been familiar with the Pilates method of conditioning the body for over half of my life. I have been a certified instructor for over 20 years so it surprised me recently when discussing the Pilates work with some friends that, while they had heard of it, they really had no idea what the work was about.

The Pilates method was created by German martial artist, boxer and body builder Joseph Pilates in the early part of the 20th century. When he created the work, Joseph Pilates called it 'Contrology' because you were learning to control the body and the mind. He developed this method because as a child he had been sick often, with Rickets and other diseases. He created this method to rehab and strengthen himself first. While he was a nurse for the German army, Pilates began training injured soldiers in his method. He would attach springs to the hospital bed frames so that even the bed ridden soldiers were able to rehab the healthy parts of their body.

The Pilates work has two main forms, the mat work and the work on the equipment. Joseph Pilates created four main pieces of equipment that use springs and body weight for resistance- the Reformer, the Wunda Chair, the High Barrel and the Trapeze Table (also called the Cadillac). These pieces of equipment still have some of the 'springs attached to hospital bed' look to them and they can be a little intimidating to look at for those unfamiliar with their purpose. Their design really has not changed much in the almost hundred years of existence. See examples in the photo below.

When working on the equipment, as Pilates began the method as a form of rehab, it is most beneficial to work one-on-one with an instructor so that the session can be most tailored to the individual needs. Its excellent training for athletes and also for those who need to rehab after an injury or post surgery.

The main idea behind the method is to create strength in the core box (shoulders to hips) to that there can be mobility in the limbs. The training has long been recognized for its physical and mental health benefits, from improving flexibility and strength to boosting mood and reducing stress. Training in the Pilates method also can take pressure off other joints in the body, increased mental agility, coordination and body awareness. Many clients experience improved circulation and respiratory function through the focus on breath work.

The mat work, like it sounds is done on a mat, similar to a yoga mat, and relies primarily on the body weight for resistance. Small balls, foam rollers, stretchy bands, etc. can be used to modify the original exercises for more variety. The mat work is a great way to get exposed to the Pilates training and learn the principles of the work. Correct alignment and breathing are super important to the method.

Dancers have flocked to the work for years because while it creates strength, it does so by developing longer leaner muscles because of the use of eccentric contracts. Pilates and his wife had Martha Graham, Jerome Robbins and George Balanchine as their clients. (For the dance history buffs, when you learn more about the Pilates technique its really easy to see the influence on those particular dancer/choreographers styles!)

By incorporating Pilates into your fitness/wellness routine, you can not only enhance your physical well-being but also rejuvenate your mind and spirit in a nurturing environment. So why wait? Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, this method of training caters to individuals of all levels and backgrounds. Start your journey towards wellness today and discover the transformative power of Pilates. Learn more about private sessions and mat classes at www.hdwellnessandtravel.com.