Lucas Studios Pilates
What is Pilates?
The last decade has seen an explosion of scientific research and findings to help explain which exercises are appropriate to facilitate good health. We now know that the importance of correct postural alignment and core stability as the basis of any exercise programme, cannot be overstated. We also know that our muscles, tendons and ligaments work as an interconnected chain and therefore the body should be trained with this in mind.
Joseph Pilates, the founder of Pilates, understood this and last century developed a series of exercises that accurately reflect the current scientific research on exercise. He was a man ahead of his time.
"The attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind, fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure."
- Joseph Pilates
Pilates is a body-conditioning programme of exercises focusing on integrating mind and body. Pilates is aimed at developing muscle control, improving strength and muscle tone throughout the body and particularly the core leading to a flatter abdominal section, increasing mobility and range of motion of the joints and improving stability and balance.
Pilates helps you develop a concious awareness of your body and movements - the first step to correcting muscle imbalances and improving posture. Pilates teaches efficient body movements and breathing techniques. These in turn lead to lower stress levels, increased breathing capacity and an overall greater sense of well being.
Pilates provides a focus on the pelvic floor (which we now understand is an important part of what we refer to as ‘the core’ – those internal abdominal muscles so important for correct posture) which few other exercise programmes offer. Pilates is very important, particularly for women, in increasing control over the pelvic floor. As many women know, particularly following childbirth and as we get older, this is an area that is often in need of greater control and strength.
Pilates complements and works well with and enhances, other exercise programmes improving athletic performance.
Reduced incidence of back pain and injuries are also benefits observed in Pilates participants.
Who can participate in Pilates?
Pilates is a gentle, non-threatening, highly effective exercise programme suitable for all age groups and all levels of fitness, both males and females.
Pilates can be highly effective for those who have not engaged in any consistent exercise program, those who have sporadically exercised, people who are fit but who wish to address core deficiencies, postural issues and/or wish to increase their mobility, stability, balance and/or overall strength. Pilates can even enhance the performance of elite athletes.
We are designing our individual courses to provide for a diverse range of participants including pregnant and post-natal women and older participants who wish to remain energetic and active.
If there is a type of class that you would like to see added to our repertoire please let us know.
We offer Pilates Courses & Stretch Classes.
