About Pilates

Modern Pilates is literally a modern approach to Pilates based exercise. It is a combination of stability techniques used in physiotherapy and traditional Pilates movements. Modern Pilates addresses both the mind and body in its approach to teaching and exercise programming.

The programme is designed with precision in mind and does not rely on repetition or momentum. It addresses trunk stability throughout. Back and upper body problems are associated with spine instability and weak core abdominal muscles. Many of the Modern Pilates principles are based on up-to-date research from the world of physiotherapy and other holistic forms of exercise. It also addresses both shoulder girdle stabilisation, maintenance of the natural alignment and form of the spine along with precise movement and muscle recruitment.

Many of the postural problems we see today are the cause of our modern life. Sitting at computers and in office chairs act against our normal balanced posture. However we must remember that some factors are beyond our control (genetics and injury) and that changes can't be made overnight.

Modern Pilates is designed to give instructors an increased and in depth knowledge base and develop advanced teaching skills beyond that needed in mainstream classes.

We follow the belief that each Client deserves individual attention and that each class and indeed each individual exercise has the health and wellbeing of each class member in its planning and execution.

Our core muscles affect the support of the spine, posture and the way we move.

Whilst Modern Pilates is for everyone, the older client can improve their balance and in time will allow clients to feel more confident and the correct execution of daily activities.

Benefits

• Rebalancing your body and bringing it into correct alignment
• Reshaping your body – which will become longer, leaner and more toned
• Improving your posture
• Achieving the perfect balance between strength and flexibility
• Rehabilitation from injury
• Relieving unwanted stress

Who is it for?

Everybody – Pilates is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and is particularly recommended for those who suffer from chronic back pain, sports injuries, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, womens health problems, repetitive strain injury, stress related illnesses and ME.

Pilates is perfect for athlete's looking to enhance their performance and avoid the risk of injury. It is also suitable for first time exercisers. Its slow controlled approach means that it gives much longer-term results.

Precise, controlled flowing movements mean that the muscle and ligament damage, sometimes associated with other fitness regimes, is avoided – Pilates, in fact plays a key role in many injury rehabilitation programmes in dance, sport and general practice.

Pilates is especially recommended by medical specialists for those with back problems.

What makes Pilates different?

Pilates offers both mental and physical training. By improving body awareness and focus, tension is released from the body and correct postural alignment is taught. The creation of a 'girdle of strength' is one of the primary aims of the Method and is achieved by strengthening the core postural muscles that stabilise the torso.

By correcting imbalances, sound muscle recruitment patterns are encouraged and the body is realigned. Good posture relieves pressure on the internal organs allowing them to function properly.

By bringing together body and mind, Pilates teaches you to be in control of your body, and allows you to handle stress more effectively and achieve relaxation more easily.

The end result is a body that is both long and lean, supple and strong.