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The Pilates Principles
“I invented all these machines. Began back in Germany, was there until 1925, used to exercise rheumatic patients. I thought, why use my strength? So I made a machine to do it for me. Look, you see it resists your movements in just the right way so those inner muscles really have to work against it. That way you can concentrate on movement.”
~Joseph H. Pilates
Joseph Pilates’ system uses six guiding principles that help you achieve maximum results while you educate and develop your mind and body.
Concentration
Exercises are performed with focused concentration, paying attention to how the individual executes the exercises. The mind guides the body, and they work together as a team, with every exercise requiring the full attention of the participant.
Control
When performing the exercises properly, you are in control of all of the movement of your body. Momentum has no place in Pilates, and habit does not guide the execution of the exercises.
Centering
All work is initiated and controlled through the center, or “Powerhouse” – which includes the abdominals, the buttocks and the back muscles. All exercises are done with proper alignment to maintain balance in the body.
Precision
All exercises are performed with a clear structure and precise form. The work emphasizes quality, not quantity in order to reach the full benefit of each exercise.
Flow
The full workout is designed for one exercise to flow naturally into the next. There is a minimum of movement between exercises to create a maximum flow. In combination with deep and relaxed breathing, the flowing movements in Pilates reduce stress on the body and the risk of injury.
Breath
The pattern of breathing is connected with the pattern of movement. All exercises are done with a rhythm and a dynamic related to the heartbeat and respiration, ensuring a free flow of oxygen throughout the body. This improves circulation and helps avoid unnecessary tension in the muscles.