The Six Principles of Pilates

Joseph Pilates is credited with founding a unique form of exercise that balances mind, body and spirit with weight loss and increase in flexibility. 

The movement has since exploded across the country and around the world as everyone from celebrities to new mothers take up this form of exercise to feel and look better. This type of exercise is very unique and different than any cardiovascular, aerobic, or yoga type of exercise. When Joseph set out to create a revolutionary form of getting fit and staying healthy, he changed the way we look at exercise and fitness. As soon as celebrities started jumping on the bandwagon, it was only a matter of time before the exercise routine became widespread and increasingly popular. There are a number of basic foundations that the exercise is built upon. While Joseph did not specifically elaborate these points as he developed the exercise routines, many trainers and professionals that now teach the classes have distilled this information from his previous teachings. 

One of the most important things about pilates is the ability to bring the focus of your mind and body to the center. Centering allows all of your energy to be focused on the strongest part of your body. Your abdomen between your lower ribs and above your pubic bone is often described as the powerhouse of your physicality. All exercises come from this center core. 

Concentration is another important aspect to this form of exercise. 

You cannot simply do a certain number of repetitions for each muscle group and go home at the end of the day expecting dramatic results. You must concentrate on each task and the muscle group involved. 

Control is the next important part in pilates. 

Every movement must be done with purpose and complete control. Compared to the weightlifters that literally throw weights around, the exercises in this routine are slow and determined. Along with control, precise movements are preferred with this exercise regimen. Ensure that each muscle group is working efficiently and that your movements allow you to be methodical and purposeful. You should know exactly where each limb is going to and coming from as you move through the exercises. 

Two of the last principles of pilates are breath and flow. 

They obviously work together because as you breathe, you direct the flow of energy through your body. Maximizing your breath during the exercise movements helps to pump the air and coordinates that pumping with muscle contraction and relaxation. Flow refers not only to the inhaling and exhaling of breath, but also to grace and fluid movements that are achieved with the previous principles. When adding everything together, this is a beautiful and graceful form of exercise that helps to keep you fit and calm. 


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