Pilates

The pilates method is essentially a mind-body centering technique that emphasizes the importance of beginning movement from a central core of stability, namely the lumbopelvic region. From this central core, the Pilates method works by adjusting the intensity of each exercise to alter abnormal movement patterns to achieve a carry over into everyday functional movements. It's founder Joseph Pilates believed that injuries were caused by imbalances in the body and habitual patterns of movement. He observed that when a person had a weakness or a malaligned area, the person overcompensated or overdeveloped another area to achieve functional movements. He therefore found that by correcting the malalignments and reeducating the body, injuries could be treated and prevented from occurring in the first place.
It is based on the following principles:

• Breathing - is coordinated with exercises to give the spine the greatest local muscle stability
• Concentration - on every movement is vital to promote correct alignment and body awareness
• Control - is essential when working against gravity
• Centering - in Pilates your centre is your "powerhouse" by facilitating core stability, you develop and efficient powerhouse
• Precision - is the ultimate goal
• Flow - exercises are performed in even, flowing movements
• Integrated isolation - by building a mind-body awareness this allows you to recognize incorrect patterns of movement and correct them
• Routine - repetition leads to greater skill and greater benefits

Pilates is good for everyone, however specific groups of people that can get even greater benefit include:

• athletes and sportsmen & women
• those with poor posture
• those with existing back problem