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The Benefits
CORE . PREVENTION . ALIGNMENT . ELONGATION . BONE DENSITY . BREATH .
"Our underlying physiology - genetics - requires us to be physically active. Our bodies expect that. That's why pretty much all the chronic diseases we now face - particularly cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, type two diabetes - are due to the fact that we are flying in the face of our underlying genetic makeup. Resistance training is very, very important."
- Professor Robert Newton - Edith Cohen University
CORE
Everything starts in your centre, and like the layers of an onion, we build strength starting from the deepest abdominal layers. Even the fittest clients often don't have deep internal strength, so we always start with the basics to build an authentic core connection. When your core is truly strong, the rest of your body functions optimally.
PREVENTION
We use the Pilates exercises and equipment to create strength in the supporting muscles of your joints, particularly your vertebral joints. This allows the joints to decompress, creating space and length, and preventing wear and tear by maximising correct posture.
ALIGNMENT
The traditional Pilates equipment is designed to guide your body into optimal symmetry, using targeted spring resistance, the forces of gravity and your own internal engagement. We reinforce good alignment using these methods to retrain your postural habits. Improved alignment often results in less pain and tension, better sleep, and better digestion.
ELONGATION
We all shrink over time, but Pilates allows us to slow down and even reverse this process. The exercises are designed to subtly elongate your body. When you begin to habitually carry yourself with a more supported and lengthened posture, these changes will begin to inform all your movements, making you taller and more elongated over time.
BONE DENSITY
Bones need continual stress or loading to maintain or build density. An effective approach to create this necessary stress is spring resistance. The springs on Pilates equipment, such as the Reformer and Cadillac, allow the bones to safely strengthen, progressing in intensity over time. This kind of resistance is particularly useful for people with osteoporosis as there is no risk of damage from impact.
BREATH
Feeling rubbish? Take a deep breath. Don't you feel better? Our muscles need oxygen-rich blood to function optimally. Yet we often hold our breath when we exert ourselves. This not only deprives our muscles of essential oxygen and blood, but when we hold our breath we tend to brace our abdominals and push down and outwards. You'll learn how to use your breath to connect more deeply in your core, zipping up internally and engaging the pelvic floor.