What is Pilates?

Pilates is a method of stretching and strengthening exercises that work on conditioning the body as a whole.  In other forms of sports or exercise, one muscle is often overbuilt.  This can lead to bad gait and poor posture; or knee, shoulder, neck and back pain.  Pilates helps correct the imbalances by strengthening the muscles responsible for proper alignment.

Joseph Pilates' original teachings in the 1920's promoted a flat spine.  STOTT Pilates™ recognizes the importance of the spine's natural shock-absorbing curves.  For that reason, most of the exercises at Pilates for Life Studio are done with a neutral spine.

STOTT Pilates™

STOTT Pilates™ is the contemporary approach to the mind-body exercise developed by Joseph Pilates.  Its founder, Moira Stott Merrithew, wanted to ensure the exercises were safe for everyone by working with physical therapists.  This resulted in the classic pilates moves being more biomechanically correct.  With its emphasis on breath, core conditioning, and body awareness, Stott Pilates is now considered to set the standard for excellence among piliates programs.  It is the perfect complement to cardiovascular exercise, sport, rehab, and life.

Pilates fits in well with today's emphasis on prevention.  People want a healthier lifestyle longer and a better quality of life.  Pilates helps prevent injuries and creates body awareness.

Pilates & Fracture Prevention

Along with core strength, pilates develops balance, coordination, and improved posture.  All of these factors are needed to help prevent fractures due to thinning bones.   You may already be aware of the need for balance and coordination in preventing falls.  Correct postural alignment also prevents spinal fractures that can occur often times without trauma due to weakening vertebrae.   Many of the classic pilates mat exercises are contraindicated for someone with low bone density due to the pressure on weakened vertebrae.  Pilates For Life Studio offers a program of modified pilates exercises that are safe for thinning bones with an emphasis on lengthening the spine and strengthening  back  muscles.  Another important goal in preventing osteoporosis is practicing exercises to reverse rounded shoulders and forward head posture.  The smaller postural muscles are strengthened with the use of flex-band exercisers.   The reformer and stability chair offer progressive resistance with the use of springs to continually challenge the muscles and bones.