Pilates
History
Pilates is a technique pioneered in the 1930’s by Joseph Pilates, a German, who was involved in numerous sports. He combined techniques used in martial arts and gymnastics to produce his own training technique.
What Is It?
The principle intention is concerned with getting our bodies to move more economically and efficiently.
The technique involves mental and physical training and aims to develop the deeper postural muscles (central core muscles). The idea being for a healthier body, which moves well, we first need a strong base (or core).
By improving the function of the deep abdominal and back muscles, a stable base can be created thus improving posture and control through the spine. Increasing levels of balance, movement and resistance are added to challenge and further develop these core stability muscles.
What can Pilates Help?
Pilates is a great all purpose exercise and has overall effects of relaxation, strengthening and making you feel more limber or mobile. It is very effective at dealing with muscle imbalances in the body, releasing those muscles which are tight and strengthening those which are weak.
The exercises are also used to treat specific problems, such as:
• Low back pain
• Neck and upper back stiffness and pain
• Knee and hip problems
• Tight hamstrings and calves
• Shoulder tightness
At Central Health we have physiotherapists who are also Pilates instructors. The core fundamentals of the method are based through understanding the anatomy of the human body, a skill which physiotherapists use on a daily basis.
Central Health provides either one to one, or group sessions. The number of participants in a group is no greater than eight and we offer both beginners and a slightly more advanced class.