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What is Pilates?

Pilates is a method of physical exercise that sharpens the awareness of the mind to the body and it's ability to perform efficient movement. Pilates is best known for strengthening the "core" muscles, or muscles of the abdomen and spine, increasing flexibility and range of motion throughout the entire body, balancing the muscular-skeletal system, and improving posture. Some of the other benefits of Pilates include improvement of circulation, balance and overall coordination, bone density and joint health, and a long lean tone and appearance to the body.Pilates works the body differently from the traditional gym and weight training regimens we are familiar with in a couple of different ways.

The first way is the type of muscle contraction used in Pilates, the eccentric contraction, is different from the majority of the lifting techniques used in fitness centers and gyms. The eccentric muscle contraction is a way of contracting the muscle so it works both ends of a movement exerting and resisting weight, or in Pilates, spring tension. This eccentric contraction is what develops the muscles increasing not only strength but pliability and flexibility as well. The result is a longer leaner muscle.....hence the term, "The Pilates Body". The second difference is strengthening the body from the inside out, or from the center to the extremities verses segmenting the major muscle groups and building them up around the body. Pilates strengthens the torso with the spine in its naturally curved state, also referred to as "neutral spine". It teaches the body to move from a stabilized and correct posture, ultimately decreasing the risk of injury and increasing the efficiency of movements in everything we do.

Thanks to Joseph Pilates and his dedicated lifetime work before, during, and after WWI Pilates is strengthening, rehabilitating, and shaping the world one body at a time.



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