Welcome to Bodies in Balance!

What is Pilates?

Pilates was created about a century ago by Joseph H. Pilates, a German athlete.  He referred studio-small.jpgto it as “Contrology – gaining the mastery of the mind over complete control of your body.” The goal is perfection of flowing movement in coordination with breath. Ideally, this then transfers to your activities of daily living allowing you to move in a strong, self-aware, centered, and balanced way.

This unique method of exercise has a mat work component; often integrating small pieces of equipment such as thera-bands, balls, rings, or towels, but traditional Pilates also uses a few large pieces of equipment.  The main piece of equipment is known as the reformer.  This is a bed-like machine with a movable carriage and incorporates the use of springs and ropes.  The beauty of this unique machine is that it can be set up to simplify movements, for those clients needing assistance, or it can be set up to challenge even the most accomplished athlete.

The other pieces of equipment include the Wunda chair (pictured on the right), the Cadillac, the spine corrector, and the ladder barrel.  Each piece of equipment is designed to build core strength, while also increasing flexibility, and joint mobility.   Clients gain strength and develop long lean muscles.

 

Core Stability - Joint Mobility

Benefits of Pilates:

  • Increased flexibility & strength 
  • Increased spinal health
  • Improved posture and alignment
  • Increased efficiency of movement
  • Improved balance and coordination of movement 

“You’ll feel better in 10 sessions, look better in 20, and have a new body in 30!”

What to Wear?

Wear comfortable clothing, but not too loose fitting, so as to allow observation of your body movements, and socks or bare feet, no shoes.

Group Class, or Private Instruction?

If you are healthy, and have few, or no, physical limitations, you are probably fine to enter a group mat class.  A solid mat background is very helpful for working on the equipment.  If you have special needs, or want a personalized workout, you will want a private or semi-private session.   Equipment training will focus on your particular needs and goals.  

Pilates is most effective done several times a week and mixing both mat and equipment training.