What is Pilates?
The Pilates method is a system of movement and exercise developed by German born athlete and physical therapy pioneer, Joseph H. Pilates during the early 20th century. He developed these movements over sixty years of his life whilst creating and inventing specialized equipment for performing them. He strongly believed in the connection between strengthening the human mind and body and that the two were interrelated.
The Pilates method aims to create a balance between strength and flexibility, promoting circulation, joint range of motion and proper musculoskeletal alignment, as well as deep core conditioning to support a healthy spine. It stimulates increased levels of body awareness, strength, agility, coordination and overall balance, and can even lead to a happier, fuller, more pain-free way of life.
"Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure."
-Joseph Pilates
Who Is Pilates Good For?
Pilates is good for nearly everyone, of all ages and abilities. Pilates can be especially therapeutic for people with certain conditions. While Pilates is NOT a cure for any of the following, the following conditions have been known to respond well to Pilates-based rehabilitation:
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Chronic Pain
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Low Back / Neck Pain / Injury
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Osteoporosis
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Postural Problems / Scoliosis
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Lordosis / Kyphosis
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Sciatica
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Joint Pain / Injury
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Knee / Shoulder / Hip Pain
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Poor Balance
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Disc Issues / Dysfunction
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Frozen Shoulder
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Alzheimer’s Disease / Dementia
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Parkinson’s Disease
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MS
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Post-Surgery Rehabilitation (check with your Doctor)