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Basic Principles 

What happens here?

 

At first a discussion about your GOALS and why you are here.

 

Pilates attracts many different people, some requiring Pilates because of a medical condition or injury they have and others just simply need to stretch, strengthen and mobilise more.

 

It’s important that we get off to the right start by identifying your goals. Every person is different, some needing more time to learn the correct engagement whilst others may simply feel confident enough to join a basic group straight away. Others may have an injury/medical condition which is not suitable for certain exercise either on matwork sessions or using the apparatus.

 

Posture

Looking at your posture will determine a lot. Which muscles need stretching, strengthening and mobilising. You will also be advised as to what type of movements will be best for your posture.

Getting started. Breathing

 

As a beginner you are required to attend a minimum of 4 Basic Principles classes before joining any other class that utilises Pilates equipment. At this stage we will take you through the basics at a slow pace allowing enough time for you to understand the breath pattern and move at the same time . Similar to yoga , the breathing plays a vital role in getting the most from the exercises In Pilates we tend to move on the exhale and pull our deep stomach muscles in before movement and during movement. Once breathing is mastered -usually 4-5 sessions-, you will see and feel the difference as

  • Your back begins to feel supported by the deep core muscles that you have been activating

  • A sense of feeling taller and a subconscious awareness about your posture again

  • A tightening in the abdominal muscles

  • A calmer mind

Learning the Fundamentals

Understanding the breathing first and then layering movements ontop of the breathing. For example :

  • Lifting a leg from the floor whilst maintaining neutral

  • Learning how to move through your spine one vertebra at a time

  • Learning how to use the abdominals to stretch and support your back

  • Classic sit up without hurting your neck

  • How to stretch safely and effectively

  • How to use the shoulder/scapular stabilizing muscles

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