Pilates

Pilates is a balanced workout that emphasise flowing and controlled body movements to prepare the mind and body for the challenges ahead. In the early 20th century Joseph Hubertus Pilates, a German born, New York Fitness instructor, created Pilates as a means of combating the negative effects of stress and physical neglect of modern living. This forward thinker sought build core body strength in order to improve alignment, increase range of motion, and focus the mind. Dancers were instantly drawn to this new method as a means of improving technique by concentrating on body and posture alignment. However, Pilates created a generalised exercise system that could benefit everyone. Over the years, his successors have adapted his original system while maintaining the integrity of the core program, making it even more appealing to fitness seekers of all ages.

This workout uses a holistic approach based on toning the body and correcting poor posture through exercises that are carried out slowly and with concentration involving both the mind and the body. Such mind-body conditioning requires you to look within, to concentrate on breathing, and to focus on the subtle differences that smooth, long movements have upon the body. This whole-body approach was once embraced by dancers seeking to improve technique, and over the years has gone on to benefit new mothers, teens, performers, athletes, and those entering the later stages of life. Exercises interact with body structure to improve alignment and restore impaired function to joints and muscles, creating confidence and a sense of well-being.