Breathing is the first and last act of life. To breathe correctly you must completely exhale and inhale, always trying very hard to ‘squeeze’ every atom of impure air from your lungs in much the same manner that you would wring every drop of water from a wet cloth
Breathing
Breathing is essential to the Pilates method. In Pilates exercises, we breathe out with the effort and in on the return. We aim to coordinate this breathing practice with movement, including breathing instructions with every exercise.
Concentration
All Pilates exercises have a mental and cognitive element to them, concentrating on the movement, bodily position, active and inactive muscle is fundamental to the Pilates way.
Control
Control is about ensuring that the right muscles are used at the right time to create the desired movement. Control is truly at the heart of the Pilates way, only when a movement can be performed with exquisite technique should it be progressed to the next level.
Centring
The core is often reffered to as the “powerhouse” of the body and is where all movement originates, this region is the very foundation of movement and is essential in the control and stability of other bodily regions. In Pilates, each exercise begins with concentrating the movement from the core and then allowing it to flow outwards to the limbs to complete the desired exercise.
Precision
All Pilates exercises are performed with great attention to detail, to ensure the right muscles are being recruited in a controlled way and through a very accurate range of motion.
Flow
All Pilates exercises should be performed with fluidity and grace. Movements should flow out from a strong core/centre and only when proficiency and precision have been demonstrated should the speed of the exercises be increased and the complexity of the movement can progress.
Schopenhauer, the philospher once said
To neglect one’s body for any other advantage in life is the greatest of follies