Blue Sky Pilates

The Pilates Method is a series of approximately 500 exercises or movements that use either floor mats or specially designed equipment.  In the general fitness world, floor work is the most popular form of Pilates because it doesn’t require any equipment.  This is changing with the ever-growing number of Pilates studios and access to the equipment developed and inspired by Joseph Pilates himself.  The exercises require the muscles used for the movement itself but the “core muscles” are always active to stabilize the body during each movement.  Pilates exercises can use springs and/or body weight as resistance rather than weights.

A difference between traditional weight training and Pilates is the number of repetitions.  In weight training, the emphasis is generally placed on a simple movement designed to isolate a muscle or group of muscles.  Traditional weight training usually uses a higher number of repetitions for muscle stimulation.  Because Pilates exercises are generally more complex movements that use more muscles in more than one plane of motion, a fewer number of well controlled repetitions is all it takes to get a great workout.  Pilates exercises are very low impact, making it an excellent choice for rehabilitation and recovery in addition to its regular fitness benefits.  Pilates can be taught one-on-one or in small groups.  This allows instructors to pay close attention to the biomechanics of the exercise, the positioning of the body and correct breathing.

So what are the benefits to the Pilates Method?  Because most of the resistance is your own body weight, Pilates strengthens muscles with less impact than traditional weight lifting exercises.  Each exercise uses multiple muscles for the movement itself and for body stabilization.  This greatly enhances both balance and coordination.  Strengthening the “core muscles” which are often neglected or overlooked in a traditional exercise routine will help improve posture, as well as balance and coordination.  Another benefit to Pilates is the effect of proprioception or mind/body awareness.

Proprioception is defined as the “unconscious perception of movement and spatial orientation arising from stimuli within the body itself”  What that means is being aware of the movements your making, the muscles being used and your body positioning during the movements.  Learning proprioception is beneficial for all other activities, exercises or sports and can improve your performance, help to isolate specific muscles and reduce your risks of injury.