Pilates is an exercise system designed to strengthen, lengthen, tone and align the body while eliminating excess tension and strain on the joints.  Known as ‘Intelligent exercise’ Pilates is a full body movement system which utilises mental engagement and concentration to stabilise some muscle groups whilst other muscle groups move in a co-ordinated way.  A precise breathing pattern is used during a workout which oxygenates the body, replenishing cells and minimising lactic acid build up in the muscles, reducing sore muscles during and after a workout and creating a renewed sense of inner calm and well being. 

The Pilates method - originally called "Contrology" was created by Joseph Pilates.  Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1880 and suffered as a child from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever.  He chose to explore physical pursuits in order to overcome these ailments.  By practising bodybuilding, gymnastics and diving as well as studying Eastern and Western Philosophies and exercises he gained the knowledge to develop his own system of unique exercises - what we now know as Pilates.

Control
• Breathing
• Precision
• Flow

Pilates is a proven body conditioning method which aims to strengthen and tone, improving posture, promoting flexibility and balance.  This produces a strengthened and streamlined body, helping to create a better mind and body connection.  Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Doctors often recommend Pilates for their clients’ rehabilitation and/or improved physical and mental well being.  This endorsement simply indicates that Pilates works.

   
Pilates is suitable for men and women of all ages and fitness levels and is excellent during pregnancy to prepare for labour and is a great way to get back into shape after baby is born.

‘Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness’ – Joseph Pilates
  

Benefits of Pilates:

The benefits of Pilates can be experienced by everyone - young, old, inactive and super fit.  Whole Body Pilates are experienced to adapt all exercises for all abilities to stretch, strengthen and tone so that all clients can benefit in many ways.

Improved posture
The spine supports the weight of the body and allows the body to move with ease and comfort.  With lifestyles of today and hours spent sitting in front of a computer screen or TV the natural “S” shape of the spine is lost, resulting in back pain and rounded shoulders.  Pilates helps to re-align the spine and with that comes better posture.
   
Relief from back Pain
Lower back pain is often caused by poor posture and daily mistreatment of our spines. By re-aligning the spine and improving posture, lower back pain is significantly reduced and can often be eliminated entirely.

Increased strength and stamina without adding muscle bulk
Pilates helps increase both strength and stamina without adding unwanted bulk because it focuses on developing "core" muscles - muscles found in your abdominal and pelvic regions as well as in the back.  By toning and stretching these muscles, and correcting posture, natural strength and stamina is improved.    

Low Impact exercise resulting in improved Tone and Muscle Strength
Pilates is a gentle non-aerobic form of exercise that will tone and strengthen your muscles and transform poor posture without putting increased stress on the joints or the heart.

Improved balance and co-ordination
Pilates helps improve balance and co-ordination by re-aligning the spine and strengthening "core" muscles which lowers the risk of pain and injury. 
 
Aid recovery following injury - and prevent injury recurring 
Pilates is a low impact form of exercise and is widely recognised as being beneficial to people who are recovering from certain types of injury including whiplash and a wide range of sporting and non-sporting injuries.  Regular Pilates can assist in ensuring correct body movement and core body strength preventing further injuries.

Reduced risk of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis affects three million people in the UK every year, with bones (particularly those of the spine, wrist and hips) becoming thin and weak and susceptible to fractures. By promoting good posture and balance, Pilates can actively improve bone density and help reduce the risk of Osteoporosis.    
   
Reduced Stress and Fatique
Pilates is a gentle form of exercise that gives a better understanding of your own body and how it works enabling the release of tension, encouraging relaxation and resulting in increased energy levels and ability to manage stress. 

Improved Sleeping
Pilates can help stretch muscles, releasing tension and pain, and can also help trigger natural sleep responses.

Aid with prevention of incontinence
Stress incontinence is the most common form of incontinence and occurs when the pelvic floor muscles are weakened, this often occurs during pregnancy but as we get older muscles in the pelvic area can weaken too.  Pilates will help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles preventing incontinence.

Please contact Whole Body Pilates to discuss how you can benefit from introducing Pilates into your life. 

Contact:   y_selka@yahoo.co.uk or telephone 01484 664275/07824 484097