Pilates is a method of exercise which addresses the body as a whole, correcting asymmetry and weakness to bring the body back into a state of balance.

It was originally developed by Joseph Pilates almost 100 years ago, borrowing from other systems such as yoga and the martial arts. He first designed the mat exercises to build abdominal strength and body control. Later during WW1 he rigged up springs on hospital beds in a prisoner of war camp to help rehabilitate patients, this later developed into the equipment seen in Pilates studios e.g. Cadillac and Reformer.

Joseph Pilates originally called his method ‘contrology’ it was later renamed by his followers after his death. The method has been passed through generations and adapted on the way with modern principles taken from physiotherapy research.

The method itself is a series of matwork and equipment based exercises which are designed to improve an individual’s strength, mobility and flexibility. Fundamental to Pilates are a number of principles which are essential to the correct performance of a Pilates exercise.

Centring, Breathing, Precision, Control, Concentration, Flow

Through regular Pilates practice you can gain a sense of inner strength both physically and mentally.

Our bodies are a reflection of our nature and our nurture. Repetitive movements, sustained postures, joint hyper mobility, injury, stress and illness are a number of factors which can influence movement and posture. This can result in an imbalance within both the muscular and skeletal systems, if left over time this can enter you into a cycle of discomfort, restriction and pain.

In Pilates you will learn to be more aware of your body and how it moves – or doesn’t! Through this increased awareness you are able to address strength and flexibility imbalances as well as improve coordination. Many people are introduced to Pilates after an injury, or later in life as they become more aware of the physical limitations they feel. Whatever the reason the universal complaint is that they did not discover it sooner!