Pilates method: everything you need to know!

Pilates method: what is it?

The Pilates method is a sport invented by Joseph Pilates in the 20th century. Being a blend of gymnastics, breathing exercises and muscle strengthening, Pilates is a sport that focuses on the deep muscles. We tell you more!

The origins of the Pilates method

Despite the current trend, Pilates is not a new physical activity! 

Joseph Pilates created it at the beginning of the 20th century in England, with the aim of helping hospital patients to regain strength and mobility by strengthening their deep muscles. To do this, he used the help of machines based on straps and springs to support injured limbs. 

He did so perpetuate his method fitness by teaching it to instructors in the United States, who in turn later taught it. 

This is how the Pilates method has spread to the countries of Europe, and well beyond!

The 6 main principles of the Pilates method

It exists 6 main principles in the Pilates method. If you respect these principles, you will immediately feel all the benefits that this activity can give you. 

1) Breathing

The first principle is based on the breathing. An essential element, it allows above all toimprove blood circulation. 

Thus, working on breathing aims to make movements easier and more intense. 

You must therefore constantly keep in mind that it is necessary inspire when preparing the movement Then exhale when performing the movement. Your performance will be doubled!

2) Focus

There concentration lies in the ability to clear one's mind. You will then be able to fully concentrate on the movements and your breathing.

As a result, you will perform the exercises correctly and feel your entire deep muscle in action. 

3) Stabilization / centering

When performing a Pilates exercise, find your stability and its bodily center is the key stage. Each of your movements starts from the center of your body: the trunk is your center of gravity.

By observing this, you will have more ease to perform arm and leg movements.

4) Control

The principle of control is also essential. Your mind must control your body and all the actions you make. The aim of the maneuver is to control your body and mind together so that they become one.

Thus, each movement is under control and the risk of injury is minimal. 

5) Fluidity

You must be fluid in the movements performed. The exercises most often have one repetition because their realization is slow. 

This gives you time to do the movements the right way and focus the work on the deep muscle.  

6) Accuracy

In connection with the 5th principle, the precision movements is important. So, be accurate from start to finish of the execution of each exercise. Pilates promotes quality over quantity exercises!

The benefits of the Pilates method

No shocks or violent impacts for the body, the Pilates method allows you to work the muscles gently and deeply. Discover his many benefits for a healthy body!

Strengthen muscles

The Pilates method allows you to firm and tone muscles. Indeed, they are worked in depth thanks to the continuity and precision of each movement. 

After several sessions, you will already see results: sculpted silhouette and flat stomach !

Improve posture

As a continuation of muscle strengthening, Pilates will allow you to improve your posture effectively. The exercises are carried out in the respect for the body and so to you regain awareness of your body. 

The more Pilates sessions you do, the more you will feel the good natural position of your body and the better you will be able to apply it in your everyday life! 

Relieve pain 

Say goodbye to your back pain! Pilates exercises allow you to put your back and pelvis back in place. Thus, you work in depth on your back muscles and strengthen your spine. THE risk of injury decreases because your muscles are better able to withstand shock. 

Pilates and back pain are therefore two complementary concepts because thanks to practice, you will be able to resolve your pain effectively!

Reduce stress 

Pilates is based on benefits of breathing and the well-being of body and mind. 

Take advantage of these moments for yourself clear the mind, put your daily life and your stress away from you during the session and focus only on you and your body. Coming from some inspirations taken straight from yoga, you are feeling relaxed and light coming out of a Pilates session!

Who can do Pilates?

Who is concerned or not by the Pilates method? Men, women, children, adolescents, elderly people, athletes or not, tired, stressed, in good shape, pregnant women, young mothers, etc. We tell you everything!

A universal sport

Pilates is considered a universal sporting activity. In fact, everyone can do it! 

You don't need to have any particular flexibility or be a great athlete, for example. All you need is good will and of respect the basic principles to excel in this sport. 

Regardless of your age or physical condition, exercises can be adapted according to your level. All you have to do is get started!

Contraindications 

As in all sporting activities, there are contraindications for the practice of Pilates. 

This is particularly the case if you have health problems known, such as so-called chronic pain or some pathologies serious. In these specific situations, it is advisable to request theadvice from his doctor. 

Putting the Pilates method into practice

There are several ways to practice Pilates: different materials, locations, types of classes, etc. We cover everything you need to know to get started!

Required equipment

You can practice Pilates in very different ways:

• with floor mat only
• with accessories : balloons, elastic or even a pilates ring
• with specific machines : THE Reformer, la Table Trapèze, la Chair, le Spine Corrector

Pilates in France is rarely practiced with machines. These are methods mainly developed in Asia or the United States. 

Where to practice?

You have the choice when it comes to practicing Pilates. 

To begin, you can imbibe the principles by practicing the Pilates method at home. This can reassure you and give you a first idea of what Pilates is. 

Subsequently, make private lessons or group lessons allows you to have the coaching of a professional and to progress. He can therefore correct you in positions and exercises so that you become perfectly independent! 

You choose !

Getting started with Pilates with POSES Studio

You do not have never practiced Pilates ? Trust our coaches! What do you think of a unique experience at POSES Studio ? Between catchy playlists, subdued lighting, accessible movements and simple language, we intend to thrill you!

Enjoy 50 minutes of escape in music to reconnect with yourself and work your muscles effectively. Inhale, exhale, listen to your muscles and push yourself. 

Our flow signatures are adapted to all levels and aim to make you discover the basics of the Pilates method.