Principles of Pilates

Melbourne Yoga and Pilates instructor Lili Nel, correcting posture during group Pilates class

Pilates principles

What are the principles of Pilates? Why should we do it and what differentiates it from other forms of exercises? Pilates is not just about moving the body; the exercise is designed to help improve your mind and body connection, by using specific breathing techniques working in anatomically correct posture to reduce injuries, daily pains and also get the most out of your exercises.

Pilates Principles:

1. Concentration
2. Control
3. Centre
4. Flow
5. Precision
6. Breathing

All the certified Pilates instructors must study anatomy before they begin their training. As you can see above, all of the principles are related to our body movements (muscles) so it’s crucial for them to understand how the muscles work eccentrically and concentrically before they begin their instructor training.

From beginner, intermediate to advanced, Pilates is a flexible form of exercise which you and your instructor can cater to your fitness needs. It is not a joint/ bone rehabilitation exercise however with your doctor’s approval, Pilates instructors can help you decrease any pains you might be having day to day, by working on your weak and strong muscles around your body. It also helps you to deepen your mind and body connection.

You might still be asking, “So why Pilates?”.

We all have different bodies and live different lives, from all of our good to bad habits we unfortunately end up with muscle imbalances as our body is designed to have left and right sides. You might not know this, but your left side muscles could be lighter, weaker and also longer compared to your right side if you are right handed! That’s where Pilates instructors come in with their Pilates Principles. Muscle imbalance is not an illness, it’s our bodies being natural. And to reduce the progression of these muscle imbalances Pilates instructors are here to help you!

Have you always wanted to feel excited and motivated to move you body, but always found it difficult to do so because exercising is not your thing? If you find it difficult to add 30 minutes of exercise into your schedule. We recommend adding in at least one Pilates workout into your schedule each week. Try it out! As Joseph Pilates himself quotes,

‘In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 you’ll see the difference, and in 30 you’ll have a new body’.

Pilates can be done in your own tempo, focusing on your entire body and mind, ensuring smooth and precise movements throughout the whole exercise!