Pilates Part 2
Control: Muscle control, in Pilates, means no uncontrolled movements. Pilates maintained that controlled movements were more important than intensity or repetition, offering more safety and effectiveness.
Precision: The precision aspect of Pilates asserts that every movement has purpose. Any detail left out decreases the value of the exercise. The goal is to focus on doing a single, purposeful, perfect movement rather than many sloppy ones. These movements will eventually become second nature, you will move with grace and economy without even realizing it.
Breathing: Deep breathing properly coordinated with movement is key to the practice of Pilates. Breathing deeply and correctly increases oxygen flow to all your muscles and organs. Breathing is so important that Joseph Pilates himself said, 'Even if you follow no other instructions, learn to breathe correctly.
Flowing movement: Once a Pilates student has learned the movements, they are expected to be able to flow from one movement to the next continuously and efficiently.
All in all, Pilates is a gentle way of increasing strength and stamina. It is a relatively safe form of exercise. Of course, as with any exercise program, consult your healthcare practitioner before beginning.
back to Pilates Part 1