pilates exercise

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Have You Tried Pilates?

Today you can find Pilates DVD’s, balls, straps, gizmo’s — even the book Pilates for Dummies! You might think that those are an "easy way" to learn Pilates, but in fact they are not. Many people I talk to say they tried using a DVD and found it was too difficult, or were even injured. You can find flimsy Pilates "reformer" equipment sold on the home shopping channels, and unfortunately see television models demonstrating repetition after repetition of a select few exercises. The method of exercise is hawked as a way to shape certain parts of the anatomy, and they practically guarantee you’ll look just like the model on the screen if you buy their products.

In the real world, one simple feature is far superior to all the DVD’s, home systems, books, and gizmo’s: a certified Pilates instructor. A skilled instructor helps you to develop control, precision, and mindfulness. A skilled instructor can adapt the exercise for your current level of strength and flexibility, and when you have developed a level of mastery, will continue to challenge you.


What Is the Original Pilates Exercise?

Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in the late 1800’s. His parents were physical and knowledgeable: his father was a boxer and his mother a naturopath. Joseph as a child was weak with asthma and rickets, and was bullied by the neighborhood boys. Through perseverance and study he developed his knowledge and practice of a healthful lifestyle, the result of which are the exercises we practice in the studio today. The results of his practice in his own body was proof to him that he had developed a valuable and enduring method of exercise for the body, mind, and spirit. Despite obstacles and skepticism of the public, he shared his knowledge with those who could feel the value of his exercises, and now Pilates is almost a household word.

"After a few months of classes, I have discovered a new relationship with my body and how I feel about it — and I like it!" — Carolyn Cooke


What can Pilates do for you?

  • Strength:
  • Pilates exercise results in balanced strength for the entire body, promoting better alignment and ease of motion, and a healthy level of bone density.

  • Flexibility:
  • Pilates exercise is designed to restore flexibility around the spine and all of the joints, allowing for a greater range of motion with more stability.

  • Endurance:
  • Pilates exercise is practiced as a continuous sequence of movements which promote endurance and improved circulation of oxygen.

  • Weight Management
  • Regular practice of Pilates positively impacts effective weight management plans with reduced stress, better sleep, effective digestion, and increased muscle mass and metabolism

    Many students experience:

    • Increased mental alertness and memory
    • Improved mood, digestion, and sleep
    • Increased ability to discover creative solutions to life's challenges.
    • Overall, an improved quality of life.

    "Lucille is a skilled and motivating instructor. She works with you from the ground up as you develop your program." — C.C.

What is the Pilates Method Alliance?

The PMA promotes the evolution of Pilates by maintaining the highest standards of education and distribution of information across the industry. Membership to the PMA is open to any individual or business wishing to further their knowledge and professionalism or support within the Pilates method of exercise.

Anyone interested in the study and practice of Pilates, supports the objectives of the corporation, and is willing to contribute to the achievement of the organization's objectives is eligible to become an Individual Member of the PMA. Individual Membership Fee: $150 annually Pilates Method Alliance