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What are the principles of Pilates?
Essentially, the Pilates principles are as follows: Concentration :
The mind-body connection vital to successful Pilates practice. Concentrating
on the control of movement enhances body awareness. Control/Precision:
This is the “quality, not quantity” principle at work. Pilates is about proper
form for safe, effective results—not about intensity or multiple "reps.” Centering:
A mental focus within the body calms the spirit. A particular focus on the torso
and core—the abs, pelvic girdle, lower back, and gluteal muscles—helps the Pilates
student develop a strong core and enables the rest of the body to function efficiently.
In Pilates, all action initiates from the “trunk” of the body and flows outwards
to the extremities. Stabiliziation: Pilates movements require starting
out still, for safety purposes, so stabilizating the body is important.
Breathing: Deep, coordinated, conscious diaphragmatic patterns of inhales
and exhales initiate movement, help activate deep muscles and keep you focused
during Pilates exercises. Alignment : Proper alignment is key to good
posture. During Pilates exercises, you will become aware of the position of
your head, neck spine and pelvis, right down through the legs and toes. Fluidity:
Pilates encourages smooth, continuous motion rather than choppy repetitions.
Pilates students often find themselves becoming more “graceful” and “elegant”
in their movements with continued practice. Integration: Pilates simultaneously
engages several different muscle groups to control and support movement. All
principles come together, making Pilates a holistic mind-body workout.
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