GETTING STARTED IN PILATES
All you need to know
WHAT IS PILATES?
The aims of Pilates are to strengthen the body with a particular emphasis on core strength. Exercises can be done on a mat concentrating on strengthening your central ‘core’ with a particular focus on the lumbo-pelvic region. Alternatively special equipment which has a system of pulleys, springs, handles and straps can be utilised to add resistance or support depending upon your needs.
Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates who believed physical and mental health were closely related and that injuries were caused by imbalance in the body resulting from poor habitual movement patterns. He believed in some core principles – centering, concentration, control, precision breath and flow, these are applied to enable us to pay attention to the moves we carry out which increases effectiveness and enables the body to learn more.
WHO IS IT FOR?
All ages, levels of ability and fitness can benefit from Pilates as it can be adapted to suit. There are classes for specific client groups for example pre and post natal, groups and also in one to one sessions it is possible to tailor sessions to support early rehabilitation perhaps post surgery or injury
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Pilates can help to improve posture, muscle tone, balance and joint mobility. Many people undertake Pilates to complement other fitness sessions to enable the development of whole body strength and flexibility to reduce the risk of injury
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PILATES AND YOGA?
Both develop strength, balance, flexibility and posture and good breathing technique. They both emphasise the connection of mental and physical health.
Yoga places more emphasis on relaxation and uses more meditation. Pilates exercises flow from one to the next yoga focuses more on static poses.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Pilates can be taught both in private lessons or as part of a group. The best progress is made when you attend consistently and as a beginner gain feedback from an instructor to ensure moves are performed well.
See our beginners package options below or please submit a contact form or email on knebworthpilates@hotmail.com and we can chat through your specific requirements.
