What Exactly Is Pilates?

Lauren Intriago | July 11, 2019

Pilates or the Pilates Method is a pain-relieving, muscle strengthening and posture correcting exercise. It was invented by physical trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920’s. Joe was very sickly as a child and experienced bullying due to his small stature. In an effort to defend himself, 14 year old Joe began a series of activities to build his muscles and improve his performance. After achieving a strong and muscular body as well as gaining some experience in physical training, the young man opened a studio in New York with his wife, Clara. His teachings there included “Controlology”. Pilates is quoted as saying, “It is the mind itself which builds the body. The Pilates Method teaches you to be in control of your body – and not at its mercy.”

There are over 500 moves based on calisthenics, yoga and ballet in the Pilates Method. These unique physical efforts will accomplish 4 things: flexibility, strength, balance and body awareness. But there is so much more to it as Pilates lengthens and stretches the body, using your mind to control your body through aerobic and non-aerobic movement. Clients who may benefit include injured dancers or athletes, post surgery patients, pregnant or post pregnancy women, those with limited mobility and low fitness levels.

As far as what to expect, Pilates is not a sweaty, exhausting form of activity. Rather, it is intense concentration, patterned breathing and rhythm, controlled movement and low repetitions. Your pilates instructor should be fully trained in the Pilates methods, evaluating your needs and concerns and do a regular re-evaluation as to what is working and what is not working. It should never make your pain worse or cause extreme pain. Some soreness may occur but should go away within a short amount of time. As always, before starting any new form of exercise, your Pilates instructor should encourage you to consult with your physician.

Stay tuned for more information on “What Exactly Is Pilates?” in our next blog entitled: “What Can You Get From Pilates?”

Photo by Vladislav Muslakov on Unsplash

Journey to the Best Version of Self

“Take a deep breath and write…not inside your head as you normally do, but on paper to share with others”. So goes my own pep talk this morning as I sit down to write My First Blog Post. Isn’t it amazing how difficult it can be to try something new and to finally get out of your comfort zone?

Someone once said…“To be successful, you must become comfortable being uncomfortable.” How true! I am always in awe of my Pilates clients for beginning their wellness journey with me, because I know this challenge first hand, and they inspire me on a daily basis. It is a wonderful thing to pour myself into my clients and receive so much in return.

With that, each week I will begin sharing health and wellness information, inspirational quotes, favorite recipes, tips and strategies to stay motivated, as well as some of my own thoughts and struggles about my journey. This blog will help us all focus on progress not perfection. I promise, it will be fun!

I am on a journey to the best version of myself, would you like to come along?