pilates classes

Pilates Classes

Forty years ago, German-born Joseph Pilates developed this form of exercise that he called "contrology." Pilates sought to create a system of exercise that combined the physique of the ancient Greeks with the meditative strength of the eastern disciplines, like yoga.

Pilates, as it is called today, is a system of exercises that requires intense concentration; and it's centered around a strong abdomen, deep stretching, and focused breathing.

Six Health Benefits of Pilates

Pilates is still one of the most popular forms of exercise around. And Pilates works well for so many different kinds of people: athletes, dancers, women recovering from pregnancy, and indeed people recovering from all kinds of challenges and injuries. Here are some of the health benefits of Pilates.

Pilates focuses on strengthening your core (the abdominal and spinal muscles). The core houses your body's engine, so the stronger and leaner your core, the more effective your engine runs.
Traditional weight-lifting develops bulky muscles, but Pilates tones your body and helps develop long, lean muscles. And Pilates focuses on the whole body and not just certain muscle groups.
Like yoga, Pilates teaches you to focus on posture and alignment. The mind / body connection will help you notice when you're slouching or slumping. Pilates helps your body become more efficient in its movements.
Pilates challenges the body. Where yoga is made up of a series of static positions, Pilates is based on creating unstable postures, and then, challenging your body by moving your limbs.
Pilates is adaptable, so whether you're an accomplished athlete or a senior citizen, or somewhere in between, Pilates can benefit you. You start off by building your core muscles, working on proper alignment and posturing, and integrating your mind and body. Anyone can do it!
And like yoga, Pilates encourages you to focus on proper breathing, and this is turn decreases stress, anxiety, and muscle tension.

Click link to read our Pilates instructor's bio.

Body Pump offers Pilates classes on: Mondays at 6:00 p.m. / Fridays at 12:00 p.m. with Susan