THE SECRET SAUCES OF PILATES
For many, these six principles are the foundation of the Pilates approach to exercise. Their application to the Pilates method of exercise is part of what makes it unique in the fitness world. Joseph Pilates did not directly create the Pilates principles. They are concepts extracted from his work by later instructors. Because of this, there is not always agreement in the Pilates community about the order, specific works or number of principles. You will find some version of the Pilates principles taught by certified Pilates instructors. Once you practice and understand these principles they can be integrated in everyday life.
Centering - Physically bringing the focus to the center of the body, the powerhouse area between the lower ribs and pubic bone.
Concentration - If one brings full attention to the exercise and does it with full commitment, maximum value will be obtained from each movement.
Control - Every Pilates exercise is done with complete muscular control. No body part is left to its own devices.
Precision - Awareness is sustained throughout each movement. There is an appropriate placement, alignment relative to other body parts, and course or direction for each part of the body.
Breath - Joseph Pilates emphasized using a very full breath in his exercises. He advocated thinking of the lungs as a bellows -- using them strongly to pump the air fully in and out of the body. Most Pilates exercises coordinate with the breath and using the breath properly is an integral part of Pilates exercise.
Flow of Movement - Pilates exercise is done in a flowing manner. Fluidity, grace, and ease are goals applied to all exercises. The energy of an exercise connects all body parts and flows through the body in an even way.
For many, these six principles are the foundation of the Pilates approach to exercise. Their application to the Pilates method of exercise is part of what makes it unique in the fitness world. Joseph Pilates did not directly create the Pilates principles. They are concepts extracted from his work by later instructors. Because of this, there is not always agreement in the Pilates community about the order, specific works or number of principles. You will find some version of the Pilates principles taught by certified Pilates instructors. Once you practice and understand these principles they can be integrated in everyday life.
Centering - Physically bringing the focus to the center of the body, the powerhouse area between the lower ribs and pubic bone.
Concentration - If one brings full attention to the exercise and does it with full commitment, maximum value will be obtained from each movement.
Control - Every Pilates exercise is done with complete muscular control. No body part is left to its own devices.
Precision - Awareness is sustained throughout each movement. There is an appropriate placement, alignment relative to other body parts, and course or direction for each part of the body.
Breath - Joseph Pilates emphasized using a very full breath in his exercises. He advocated thinking of the lungs as a bellows -- using them strongly to pump the air fully in and out of the body. Most Pilates exercises coordinate with the breath and using the breath properly is an integral part of Pilates exercise.
Flow of Movement - Pilates exercise is done in a flowing manner. Fluidity, grace, and ease are goals applied to all exercises. The energy of an exercise connects all body parts and flows through the body in an even way.