Empower Your Body, Empower Your Mind®

By Kerry DeVivo, owner

Pilates of Annapolis at Excel Movement Studios

More Weight Control, Nutrition & Exercise Articles

Empower Your Body, Empower Your Mind®

The classical Pilates Method of Body Conditioning is an exercise method that you look forward to as it engages you and leaves you refreshed and alert with a feeling of physical and mental well being. Developed in the 1920s by legendary physical trainer, Joseph H. Pilates, the Pilates method focuses on uniformly developing your body.
The Pilates method consists of over 500 specific exercises using five major pieces of unique apparatus to develop the body with balance. Each exercise, which is performed with few repetitions, emphasizes precise movement, requiring proper control and form. Practicing Pilates allows you to experience a new awareness of muscle function and control that comes from engaging both the mind and body to correctly perform the movement. Through the work, the abdomen, gluteals and lower back are supported and strengthened, enabling the body to move more efficiently and freely.
Pilates is a method so diverse, it is the exercise of choice by fitness enthusiasts seeking to engage in a refreshing form of exercise, by individuals just getting into shape, by professional athletes looking to gain a competitive edge and by professional dancers hoping to improve technique. The low impact nature of this method allows many people who have chronic pain or injuries to use Pilates. It integrates into rehabilitative exercise programs to speed recovery from soft tissue injuries and to help aid in relief from chronic pain. The Pilates method can be safely used by anyone regardless of your current fitness level. Pilates is a method of exercise for every body. There is no age requirement for Pilates. Student ages range from pre-teen to senior citizen. Joseph Pilates was well into his eighties while still doing his method and in excellent condition.
The full Pilates method utilizes both mat and apparatus work. A typical session is approximately 50 minutes in length and includes both aspects. Because conditioning sessions are closely supervised, working one on one with an instructor, sessions are designed to an individual's specific needs.
If you are looking to become more flexible, improve your balance, strengthen your core, ease chronic pain, train for a marathon and experience an exercise program that is exciting and diverse in its offerings, then consider taking Pilates. The best way to understand the power of the classical Pilates method, and how it can be incorporated into a healthy lifestyle, is to experience a one on one session with a certified Pilates professional.