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    young woman doing pilates exercises

    Physical Education

    Pilates 101

    The One Hundred. The Corkscrew. The Spider. The Banana Lift.

    No, these are not rides at your local amusement park. They are some of the most popular exercises in Pilates.

    Pilates [pi-lah-teez]

    A physical conditioning program that uses low-impact exercises and stretches to strengthen the core muscles.

    Pilates Guiding Principles

    Six principles provide guidance for Pilates participation:

    1. Concentration. Attend to mind-body awareness, applying full attention to the exercise.
    2. Centering. Focus attention on the body’s core (the Pilates Powerhouse).
    3. Control. Perform exercises slowly and under control.
    4. Breathing. Breathe deeply and continuously during exercises.
    5. Precision. Execute moves with perfect form.
    6. Flow. Perform exercises in a fluent and graceful manner.

    Pilates Powerhouse

    The primary area of focus during Pilates workouts is known as the Pilates Powerhouse, which consists of the “core” muscles:

    1. Abdominals
    2. Lower Back
    3. Pelvic Floor
    4. Hips
    5. Buttocks

    Pilates Benefits

    • Enhances physical conditioning (balance, posture, strength, etc.)
    • Improves memory and nervous system functioning
    • Mitigates stress
    • Promotes confidence and creativity

    Give It a Try!

    Use the guiding principles to focus on your powerhouse by selecting a few exercises several days a week. Over the next month, see if you experience the benefits listed above.

    Share Your Knowledge!

    What are your experiences engaging in Pilates? What advice would you give to someone who has never engaged in Pilates? Post a response below and let us know!

    Note: You should always consult your physician or other healthcare provider before changing your diet or starting an exercise program. This site offers health, fitness, and nutritional information and is designed for educational purposes only.


    Dr Scott Townsend

    Dr. Scott Townsend

    Dr. J. Scott Townsend holds a Doctorate in Physical Education Teacher Education with a concentration in Curriculum and Supervision. He has worked extensively with curriculum and instruction models, more specifically focused on sport education. Read more posts by Dr. Scott Townsend –>

    0

    Dr Derek Mohr

    Dr. Derek Mohr

    Dr. Derek Mohr, Professor in Health and Physical Edcuation at Appalachian State University, holds a Doctorate in Physical Education Teacher Education with a cognate in exercise physiology from West Virginia University. His focus area is in sport, activity, and fitness pedagogy. Read more posts by Dr. Derek Mohr –>

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