PILATES – What is Pilates?

Pilates is a body-conditioning programme designed to teach efficient movement patterns and provide general well being using controlled exercises and deliberate breathing patterns.

Pilates is a mind-body exercise system which aims to increase muscle control and improve balance and flexibility. There is a strong emphasis on correct breathing designed to create harmony between mind and body.

Pilates emphasises consciously controlled movements and encourages correct muscle sequencing. The exercises require attention to detail and concentration. The results include strengthening particular muscles and their action as well as smooth controlled movement patterns.

Joseph Pilates believed that “Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness.” He defined physical fitness as “the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure.”