"I must be right. Never an aspirin. Never injured a day in my life. The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They'd be happier."

    - Joseph Hubertus Pilates, in 1965 at age 86

Sign up for a class        Schedule an Appointment

    Practiced faithfully, Pilates yields numerous benefits. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing is a primary focus. Strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles, coordination-both muscular and mental, are key components in an effective Pilates program. Posture, balance, and core strength are all increased. Bone density and joint health improve, and many experience positive body awareness for the first time. Pilates teaches balance and control of the body, and that capacity spills over into other areas of one's life. 

Sign up for a class        Schedule an Appointment

     The abdominal and back muscles are often collectively referred to as the body's core. Pilates exercises are designed to strengthen this core by developing pelvic stability and abdominal control. In addition, the exercises improve flexibility and joint mobility, and build strength. How can one exercise technique claim to do so much?

     The Reformer, a wooden contraption with various cables, pulleys, springs and sliding boards attached, lies at the foundation of Pilates. Primarily using one's own body weight as resistance, participants are put through a series of progressive, range-of-motion exercises. Despite the appearance of this, and several other equally unusual-looking devices, Pilates exercises are very low impact. Instructors, who typically work one-on-one or with two participants, offer reminders to engage the abdominals, the back, the upper leg and buttocks to stabilize the body's core. Exercise sessions are designed according to individual flexibility and strength limitations.

Sign up for a class        Schedule an Appointment

     Pilates exercises are not limited to specialized machines, however. In fact, Premier Authentic Pilates offers mat-work classes. These exercises taught also stress the stabilization and strengthening of the back and abdominal muscles, but without the apparatuses. She utilizes the natural resistance of the body as well as the  Magic Circles to center the work of the "powerhouse." Inner thighs and the gluteal muscles are especially worked in these classes. Highly trained instructors should know appropriate modifications for people with injuries or back pain.

     The mind/body connection associated with yoga and meditation also plays an integral part in Pilates. Unlike exercise techniques that emphasize numerous repetitions in a single direction, Pilates exercises are performed with very few, but extremely precise, repetitions in several planes of motion.

     Well, Pilates can help your flexibility, develop long, lean, strong muscles, flatten the stomach and strengthen the back, and improve your posture. Of course, these changes are dependent upon other lifestyle factors, such as a well-balanced diet and regular aerobic exercise. Though some may claim that Pilates is all you need to develop stamina and endurance most experts will agree that additional cardiovascular routine may be advisable, at least in the beginning.

     Whether you work out at a studio or on your living room floor, Pilates is an excellent way to challenge your muscles, improve flexibility and incorporate the mind/ body element into one effective exercise session.

Sign up for a class        Schedule an Appointment

     Pilates technique is a form of body conditioning that has proven to be as popular with dancers and athletes as it is with the average person on the street. And the reason for this is simple. Pilates is a work-out with a difference. In addition to muscle toning, stretching and relaxation, Pilates develops core abdominal strength, so that whatever activity you undertake, your skeleton is supported and your spine protected.

     The spine supports the weight of the body, and both its discs and natural curves enable it to absorb shock and to move freely. When the spine is in a natural S shape the weight of the body is supported more comfortably, movement is more fluid and wear and tear on the discs is minimized. Our lifestyle often involves long periods of sitting, either at desks, in front of computer screens and / or slouching in front of the television. These kinds of activities encourage the spine to move out of its natural S shape which can lead to conditions such as lower back pain and round shoulders.

     Pilates helps to re-align the spine back into its natural S shape, a position that has become known as a "neutral spine." The spinal column and pelvic girdle work together to support the body when you are standing and moving. But they can only do this with the assistance of muscles. Muscles are attached to bones and fascia, and by activating, strengthening and lengthening specific muscles, the bones of the spinal column can be realigned and supported.

      The main muscles involved in supporting a neutral postural alignment lie deep under the surface and include the Transversus Abdominus (TA), the Lumbar Multifidus, the diaphragm and the muscles of the Pelvic Floor. Unlike global muscles (such as the biceps in the upper arm) that are easy to see and use (every time you bend your elbow), these postural muscles can initially be difficult to locate and activate. Pilates technique works these deep muscles to provide a "powerhouse" of strength to support your spine whether you sit, stand or do backflips!

     Basically yes! After the deep postural muscles have been activated and begin to strengthen, Pilates exercises become more complex. Balance, movement and resistance are added to challenge and improve that core strength.

     Absolutely! When practiced regularly Pilates not only improves your posture, making you stand straighter and taller, but it also remodels the muscles in the legs, buttocks, abdominals and upper body. You will be stronger, leaner, more flexible and more satisfied with your body!