What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of exercise emphasizing the balanced development of the body through core strength, flexibility and awareness. It requires precision and control with a strong focus on technique – Core strength is the foundation of Pilates.
Developed by Joseph Pilates in Germany in the early 1900 (called Contrology then), Mat Pilates is based on the original exercises he developed to strengthen his own body as a very young man and then began teaching others (initially as an exercise program for soldiers). The Mat work came before any of the Pilates Apparatus (equipment) he developed and it only requires, as the name suggests, an exercise mat. Reformer Pilates are apparatus based as are Cadillac, Barrel, Tower and auxiliary equipment.
After immigrating to the US in 1920, he opened the first Pilates studio in New York and worked with professional dancers and athletes – high performance bodies. He was interested in the body as a total package of health and vitality, from which a pleasing external presentation i.e. flat abs, better posture, balanced muscularity and toning is usually a result.
Who Can Do It?
Athletes and dancers love it, as do seniors, women returning from pregnancy, and people at various stages of physical rehabilitation. Which, leaves the rest of us, who enjoy staying fit and healthy with a good workout, which can be both energizing and relaxing. Have mat? Let's do PIlates!
Why Should I Do It?
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Strong, toned and sculpted body
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Better posture and flexibility
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Pain management
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Overall fitness and a sense of well being
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Joint health and mobility
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Greater awareness and better use of your body
What Is Body Basics Pilates?
Body Basics, Pilates with Apara focuses on developing core and joint strength, toning, functional mobility and greater awareness of our own bodies. Attention is paid to ensure correct movement patterns are cultivated, helping us use our bodies more effectively and efficiently, while reducing chances of injuries and pain. Focus is placed on the correct techniques - ‘what doesn’t move, is as important as what does move’. The classes are holistic nature, and central to the teaching is creating 'awareness of your own body'.
All classes are "Mat" based and smaller equipment such as resistance bands, toning circles and exercise balls are also used.
