Principles Of Pilates: Important For Understanding Pilates

Pilates exercise regime developed by Joseph Pilates is based on the concept of using the mind to control the body. It follows carefully laid out principles. These principles are well constructed and have theoretical and philosophical foundations. Pilates has been developed and practiced over 80 years. It is not just a collection of exercises but experience put into practice.  Glimpse of Various Exercising Styles  The pilates regime is a collection and observation of different types of diverse exercising styles. It derives the gamut from yoga and various other postures from ancient Greek and Roman exercising styles. You also get a glimpse of the Chinese acrobatics in pilates. However, certain inherent ruling principles are important in bringing all these elements together in pilates.    Principles of Pilates  The Pilates principles involve concentration, control, centering, flowing movement or fluidity, breathing, precision, and, most importantly, control of mind over matter. All these principles together contribute to the unique exercise regime called pilates. However, an in-depth knowledge regarding all these principles is essential for understanding what pilates is all about.   Concentration  The principle of concentration, as the name suggests, requires complete attention. Concentration on the entire body is important. However, this is not as simple as it sounds and requires practice.  Control Complete muscle control is taught under pilates training. Pilates cannot be performed with sloppy or haphazard movements. Control over every movement and all aspects required to make that movement is important.   Centering  The powerhouse of the body that involves the abdomen, hips, buttocks, and lower back require centering while performing Pilates. All the energy during exercising flows out towards extremities. But, they start from the powerhouse itself. As the physical energy is highly exerted, the centering of exercises needs a strong foundation.  Fluidity Pilates exercises are not isolated or static. They have fluidity as our body functions in similar manner. The quick and jerky movements of other exercises are replaced by dynamic energy. Speed emphasizes the grace of motion.   Breathing  Proper blood pumping awakens all of the cells in the body. Proper breathing provides adequate flow of oxygen in the blood and takes away waste gases. To perform pilates exercises correctly, proper breathing is essential.   Precision  Each movement made while performing pilates has a purpose. Each instruction helps in performing correctly; no detail can be left out, as this would mean to forsake the intrinsic value. Thus doing just one exercise movement perfectly and precisely is better than performing all halfheartedly.  Mind Over Matter  The most paradoxical method of Pilates is also its central element. This requires attention to the free union of the mind and body. It needs complete attention to be paid on the body while performing various movements.