Pilates is a body/mind discipline based on the principles developed by Joseph Pilates that awakens and builds the strength of the deep internal muscles of the spine and abdomen. It is the creation of a circle of support around the torso referred to as core stabilization.
This band of muscles that encircles the body just under the belt line is what Pilates called the “powerhouse.” By strengthening this area, you restore the natural curves of the spine and gain the ability to control the upper and lower body while still protecting and stabilizing the spine.
In the Pilates Method all physical energy in an exercise is
initiated from the center. Exercises are based on five body
awareness issues:
- Pelvic Placement
- Lateral Breathing
- Rib Cage Placement
- Scapular Stabilization
- Cervical Placement
Joseph Pilates was born 1880 in Germany. A sickly child, he later overcame his afflictions through the study of yoga, Zen meditation and various exercises regimens of the ancient Greeks and Romans. He was an accomplished skin diver, skier, gymnast, boxer and circus performer. (top)
In 1912 he moved to England. While interned during WWI, he
taught his fellow prisoners a series of exercises combining
physical fitness, breath control and mental acuity to increase
strength and flexibility. During the latter part of the war
he worked as a hospital orderly and helped to rehabilitate
patients through resistance exercises using equipment fashioned
from bedsprings.
After the war he returned to Germany and continued to develop his philosophy of physical fitness. When ordered by the government to train the new German army, Pilates refused, fled to the United States and established a Pilates studio in New York City. Early devotees were dance legends George Ballanchine, Hanya Holm and Martha Graham. Followers today include people interested in health and fitness: dancers, athletes, physiotherapists, fitness trainers, health care professionals and others. (top)
Links for further information:STOTT™ PILATES The Contemporary Approach
www.stottpilates.com
THE METHOD PILATES The PhysicalMind Institute
www.themethodpilates.com/
SCOLIOSIS REHAB INC.
www.scoliosisrehab.com/
Web site © 2008 Emily Bogard