Pilates is not slow aerobics!
Why are Physiotherapists such big fans of Pilates? There are 3 aspects of Pilates which I think make Pilates special. The focus on breathing, the inclusion of the pelvic floor and the mindfulness of the movement to make sure that both the breathing and the core muscles stay integrated to the arm and leg movement patterns. This trains the body to work in the patterns we need to do on automatic pilot in real life. They are the things that make it more than a slow bums and tums workout!
“The Pilates method of Body Conditioning develops the body uniformly, corrects posture, restores vitality, invigorates the mind and elevates the spirit.”
Joseph H. Pilates
Even when you have been doing Pilates a long time, it can be helpful to stop to take a moment to re-connect with the basics. I have made some videos to help you practice these 3 key elements.
Videos: 3 key elements of Pilates
1. Using your breath correctly
We want to aim to breathe out as we first connect with the pelvic floor and lower abdominals. These muscles work very closely with the breathing muscle, the diaphragm.
Many people find breathing and doing pelvic floor really difficult. Let me show you how to do both at the same time! It’s all about know how. I hope this children’s toy called a Hoberman’s sphere will help you visualise better.
2. Pelvic Floor Focus
When there is a lot going on in an exercise the pelvic floor can easily get abandoned or completely left out! It can help to take a separate moment to focus in on the best action. It works best if you use both the front and back of it – and it has sides too !
3. Doing More Than One Thing at a Time!
The real skill we are searching for in Pilates is the art of being able to do it all at the same time – breathing, engaging the core and moving. If you want to be the teacher you have to smile too!
