Pilates Principles
Pilates Principles
Pilates is an exercise program that is a brainchild of Joseph Pilates from the 1920's. It was created from the concept of mind over the body and follows a set of principles that were based on philosophical and theoretical ideas. For more than eighty years, the exercise program has been practiced and is continuously going through several developments. Suffice to say, pilates is composed of a series of exercises that were a product of experience.
The exercise forms
Pilates is essentially a group of a diverse array of exercise forms. Some forms are based on yoga and there are even postures that are derived from ancient Roman and Greek exercise forms. There is also a touch of influence from Chinese acrobatics in some styles. In essence, pilates is the coming together of the best elements of these exercise programs.
You need to understand these principles in order to fully appreciate the benefits of pilates. Knowing the significance of the principles helps you get the most out of the program.
Principles
Pilates works off from the concept of maintaining precision, concentration, centering, control, focused breathing and fluid movements as well as the achievement of a stronger mind that can control the body. These principles are reflected on the different styles and forms in the exercise program.
Concentration
Complete attention is essential in the performance of pilates. One has to develop an awareness over every part of his body. Easier said than done for many people because concentration entails practice.
Control
Pilates teaches control over the muscles. Because the exercise program consists of calculated movements, each detail required to create each movement is as important as the whole routine. You can't perform the styles haphazardly.
Centering
The body's central portion or its powerhouse is the main focus of pilates routines. This part includes the hips, abdomen, lower back and buttocks. Energy is centered on this area and goes out towards the individual's extremities.
Fluidity
The exercise program is not isolated. The movements are supposed to be fluid because all body functions follow a smooth flow as well. Grace and emphasis on each detail is important. Where jerky movements are normally associated with other programs, pilates is about smooth flow of styles and routines.
Breathing
Focused breathing helps enhance blood circulation and keeps your cells alive. It allows the body to get rid of harmful gases and transport sufficient oxygen all over your system.
Precision
Every movement in pilates comes with a purpose. You don't just perform them simply because they look right. The details should be executed properly.
Mind control
Pilates works to enhance the mental well-being of the individual. The exercise program requires one's full attention on the coordination of the body and the mind. You need to pay careful attention to each movement that you perform.
