Benefits of PilatesPeople who practice Pilates regularly report many benefits, some of which include:
The Top 10 Ways Pilates Will Improve Your Body and Your Life
What is Pilates?Pilates is an exercise method for people who want to look better, feel better and move better! Developed by Joseph Pilates in the1920’s, it emphasizes the balanced development of the body through core strength, flexibility, and awareness in order to support efficient, graceful movement. It can be done on the floor as “mat” work or on a series of special Pilates “apparatus”.Either way, one of the best things about Pilates is that it works so well for a wide range of people. Whether you are a seasoned athlete looking to improve your game and avoid injuries, a woman planning for a healthy pregnancy, or a lifelong couch potato looking to ease into a more active lifestyle, Pilates can help. Many doctors and physical therapists are now referring patients to Pilates, as it is also a very effective way to rehab from injuries and surgeries. Pilates MatThe foundation of Pilates is a series of exercises performed on a mat. The mat work emphasizes quality and precision rather than quantity of repetitions. Each exercise, performed in sequence, is designed not only to strengthen and stretch but to integrate your body's muscles so that correct form and posture become a part of your daily activities throughout life. The mat work teaches us that the most important tool to achieve physical fitness is the body itself.At The Wellness Scoop, mat classes are limited to a maximum of eight participants, making them smaller than most Pilates classes out there, allowing the instructor to give you more personalized attention. Mats are provided, as well as other small props that may be used from time to time, such as weights, small barrels and magic circles. View the current schedule of mat classes or register. Pilates ApparatusJoseph Pilates’ method also includes the use of his uniquely designed apparatus in conjunction with the mat work. The apparatus utilize straps, springs and supports, creating isometric resistance with the body's weight to massage, align, stretch, and strengthen muscles. The use of this equipment meeting Mr. Pilates' exacting specifications, is directly related to the ability to perform the exercises correctly and to achieving the full benefits of his method.An apparatus lesson at The Wellness Scoop is a private, one-on-one training session in the fully-equipped studio, allowing maximum flexibility in putting together a session designed with your body and health goals in mind. You will also learn the mat exercises, so that you can combine your private lessons with a weekly group class, and / or practice the mat work on your own at home. The Wellness Scoop studio has the following apparatus manufactured by Peak Pilates: Reformer, Cadillac, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, High Chair, Wunda Chair, small barrels, weights and Magic Circles. Request a private session. Which one is best for me?There’s no one right answer for everyone. Many people do both… A once a week private lesson, one group class, and one or two home works is an excellent, well-rounded fitness regimen. If you have physical or medical issues, that severely limit your abilities, then you should really only consider private lessons. With time, dedication and the healing power of Pilates, you can potentially improve your physical abilities to be able to eventually participate in group classes as well.For minor issues such as sore knees and bad backs, including herniated disks and sciatica, Pilates is also very rehabilitative and healing. Of course always check with you doctor first, and for certain conditions, the instructor may require a doctor’s written approval to proceed with Pilates. If you have specific questions or concerns about your participation in Pilates, check out the FAQs, or contact The Wellness Scoop for more information. |
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