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YOGA/PILATES
For a Yoga/Pilates class schedule
click here
Please
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Year's
PILATES MAT AND APPARATUS
OVERVIEW
Pilates Mat and Apparatus Overview Pilates is an exercise program
that focuses on the core postural muscles that help keep the body
balanced and are essential to providing support for the spine. In
particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of neutral alignment
of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support
this alignment, which are important to help alleviate and prevent
back pain. Important principles of the Pilates exercise program
include:
- Use of mental focus to improve
movement efficiency and muscle control.
- Awareness of neutral spine
alignment, or proper posture, throughout the exercises.
- Development of the deep muscles of
the back and abdomen to support this posture.
- Use of breath to promote mental
focusing and centering.
- Creating length, strength, and
flexibility in muscles.
Initially the Pilates exercise program
was primarily used by professional dancers, who appreciated improved
strength, balance and flexibility. In the 1980’s Pilates was re-discovered
and has now become a popular form of exercise for anyone interested
in its health benefits. The exercise system is usually taught in
one of two formats:
- Using the unique Pilates equipment
in private, or semi-private, sessions.
- Group mat classes not using
equipment.
EQUIPMENT
The Pilates equipment uses the resistance of springs to
create effort. The principle piece of equipment is called the Reformer
and consists of a sliding platform anchored at one end of its frame
with springs. The platform can be moved by either pulling on ropes
or pushing off from a stationary bar. Thus, exercises include the
challenge of moving the platform and maintaining balance on a moving
surface (if sitting or standing). Another Pilates machine is called
the Cadillac and consists of a padded platform with a cage-like
frame above it. From this frame various bars or straps are attached
by springs. A third piece of equipment, the Wunda Chair consists
of a small bench-like platform with a bar attached with springs.
Exercises are done by pushing on the bar while either sitting or
standing on the bench, or standing or lying on the floor. Several
other pieces of equipment unique to the Pilates system (Ladder Barrel,
Foot Corrector, Spine Corrector, etc.) are also likely to be encountered
at Pilates studios.
MAT
Usually taught as part of a group class,
mat exercises primarily focus on strengthening the muscles of the
trunk and hip and increasing the flexibility of both the spine and
hips. While the scope of the mat program is limited compared to
the machines, there are many mat exercises that illustrate the Pilates
principles. YOGA
Developed in ancient India to unify body and mind with universal
spirit, thereby encouraging physical and mental well-being. Most
commonly involves a series of stretching postures (called asanas),
breathing exercises, and meditative practices. Increases flexibility,
improves muscle tone, and is helpful in the reduction of stress.
For a Yoga/Pilates class schedule
click here
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