What is the Pilates Method?

Pilates is a form of exercise developed by Joseph H. Pilates .The method is based on a program that includes 500 exercises (Mat and Apparatus) of strengthening and stretching the body muscles simultaneously. The approach is holistic treating the body as a whole unit using the mind to master the muscles contraction and the movements which are functional for performing our daily tasks.

The Pilates workout lengthens and strengthen the body, improves endurance, coordination, balance, muscle flexibility and our joints’ range of motion; it can also relieve stress and stimulate the circulatory system. The Pilates method focuses on the body core (the “Powerhouse”) and on proper alignment and posture which creates maximum stability, effectiveness and safety of movement. The body core is the mid-section of the trunk between the bottom of the ribcage and hip line and it includes the 35 muscles of the pelvic floor, abdominal, back and hips. The strength of these muscles moves “from inside to outside” as we learn to breath properly, isolate particular groups of muscles, and perform slow, controlled movements.

Mara Core Conditioning, developed by Mara Iancovici, is based on a personalized progressive workout which integrates knowledge of human kinesiology, years of fitness training and body-in-motion observations, traditional muscle conditioning exercises, Pilates, Feldenkreis, and relaxation elements. The key to Mara Core Conditioning is to develop a desire to understand what you are doing, and not to settle for exercising just for the sake of exercising. The workout creates a mind and body connection through a brain exercise, a fascinating process and challenge. The results will amaze you – you will
LOOK BETTER, FEEL BETER & THINK BETTER®.

“Pilates for EveryBody” Men and women of all ages, all fitness levels, teenagers, and even those with injuries and disabilities can successfully accomplish the routine exercises.

This form of exercise can be performed on a mat or on an apparatus such as spring resistant machines (Cadillac, Reformer, and Stability Chair) or just body weight (Arc Barrel, Spinal Corrector and Ladder Barrel).The workout might be solely on a mat; other times it could involve both, mat and apparatus. We primarily use Stott apparatus.

Pilates should be done 2 or 3 times a week to be most effective.

Yes, Pilates, aerobic and weight training are complementary workouts, combining to meet individual needs and goals.

Everybody progresses at their own rate, but after 10 sessions you will start to see and feel positive difference in your body and brain.

Wear comfortable exercise clothing that is not too bulky. Leggings and socks or bare feet are appropriate (no shoes).

Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1880. Because he was a sickly child who suffered from asthma, rickets and rheumatic fever, he created his lifelong 500 exercises program to become physically stronger; this helped him improve his health and build his philosophy about “The Art of Contrology.” During the First World War, he taught his method to injured soldiers, helping their physical recovery. in 1926 he emigrated to New York with his wife; they focused on teaching this method to rehabilitate injured dancers. Soon the workout spread to the general population.