ABOUT PILATES “CONTROLOGY” | AN IN-DEPTH OVERVIEW

Joseph Pilates called his method “Contrology” (from control and Greek -λογ-»α, -logia), because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.

Pilates stimulates circulation through facilitating muscular flexibility, joint range of motion and proper musculoskeletal alignment. In addition, it promotes new neuromuscular patterns, heightened body awareness, and more precise coordination. All of these things combine to help prevent future re-injury and reduce – even in some cases alleviate – chronic pain altogether.

The comprehensive integration of body mind and spirit, Joseph Pilates was a firm advocate of quality over quantity with regard to exercise. He was looking for efficiency in movement. Each movement had to be accomplished with full attention and done smoothly with control. With that goal, Pilates created exercises that develop what we now call, core strength, in order to maximize the ease and flow of each movement. He was also very much convinced of the importance of breathing fully. Pilates encouraged students to breathe deeply, even using the lungs in a bellows like way, so as to truly fill and cleanse the lungs.

THE SIX PILATES PRINCIPLES

* Centering
* Control
* Flow
* Breath
* Precision
* Concentration

Core strength and torso stability, along with the Six Pilates Principles, set the Pilates method apart from many other types of exercise.

PILATES MAT WORK & EQUIPMENT

Pilates exercises are done on the floor, or on exercise equipment developed by Joseph Pilates, including: The Pilates Reformer, Pilates Wall System, Pilates Chair, accessories & springs.

The workout equipment that we use in Pilates utilizes pulleys and resistance from the participants own body weight. We incorporate all of these pilates tools into our classes, and the approach in which this pilates method is taught enables the participant to engage in every exercise, and on every piece of pilates equipment – whether they are a beginner or advanced. This allows for extensive development at each stage of the training.

Whether you are young or old, an experienced athlete or a novice, the pilates system by simply symmetria is for you! We will communicate the language of the body in comprehensible terms, and create exercises suitable to your specific needs, in all levels of your development.

PILATES HISTORY
German born Joseph Pilates was living in England, working as a circus performer and boxer, when he was placed in forced internment in England at the outbreak of WWI. While in the internment camp he began to develop the floor exercises that evolved into what we now know as the Pilates mat work.

We teach the most sophisticated form of pilates, meticulously focused on developing every part of your body to reach its full potential. You will realize profound change in your body.

For more information on our methods, please visit: www.thepilatescenter.com