Pilates Vol. 2
The Principles
Every good series has a second season - I hope this one is just as interesting as the first. 😊
After a brief introduction to the history of the Pilates method, I'd like to tell you about the principles that form the basis of every class. These principles are consistent across different styles.
Then shalt thou count to six, no more, no less
Joseph Pilates developed six fundamental principles that beautifully interconnect:
Concentration: We perform each movement with conscious attention and focused concentration.
Control: Thanks to our focused attention, we consciously control every movement, paying attention to the muscles, the position of the limbs, and their alignment. You're in charge! 😊
Centering: Every movement originates from the so-called "powerhouse." This is nothing but the center of your body: the area around the navel, bordered by the upper ribs from above and the pelvic floor from below. (Sound familiar, right? We usually refer to it as a rather "problematic" area, don't we?) Every exercise starts with drawing in the navel without pressing the lumbar spine against the floor. Throughout the exercise, we aim to maintain the firmness of the powerhouse, which is the most important aspect, not the number of repetitions. Some days, we struggle with just one repetition, while other times we barely notice the 8-10 reps. Relax, we're only human.
Breath: Conscious, full lung ventilation, where you feel the ribcage expand on inhalation and contract on exhalation. At the beginning of each class, we always emphasize this technique, and specific breathing patterns are followed for each exercise. (Did you start practicing while reading this? I think so... And now you probably feel fresher after just 1-2 breaths, and maybe even more relaxed.)
Flow: Each exercise has its own rhythm, and we perform them continuously, seamlessly transitioning from one to the next. This is why a Pilates class often looks so beautiful and harmonious from the outside. It might also seem easy, but the reality can be quite different. 😉
Precision: Quality over quantity. The most important aspect is the correct execution, not the number of repetitions. It takes time to get to know your body and discover your own limits. We move consciously in class, slower than we'd like, leaving the rush outside the door. 😊
I don't know what's going through your mind right now... maybe all of this seems overwhelming, or perhaps it's an inspiring challenge. Whichever it is - or something completely different, like a cup of coffee - it's perfectly okay, and I understand! Come to one of my classes and try it out in practice. I'll guide you through, support you in understanding and following these principles, and if you'd like to share your experiences after the class, I'm open to that too.
Get in touch to know where you can find me, or just send me a message, and I'll help with the details!