There are many pieces of equipment in the studio that were designed and intended to be used together.
In a classical studio, we focus on not just teaching you a list of exercises but also understanding the equipment you are using, including the raised mats that we carry out the matwork classes. This level of learning and understanding deepens your practice and helps you discover that Pilates offers a myriad of functional benefits that you may not have expected.
It is commonly known that Pilates delivers improved core strength (or as we call it 'the centre') and posture, increased flexibility and mobility, and enhanced body awareness. But when thinking about how Pilates can provide functional benefits we should look to the lesser known pieces of equipment normally found in classical studios, such as the Wunda Chair, Cadillac, Pedi Pole to name a few.
Combining exercises on various pieces of equipment alongside your regular matwork or reformer workout can enhance your practice adding a whole new dynamic to your workouts.
Some of the functional benefits of Pilates include:
Increased balance and coordination - The strong emphasises on mind-body connection, requires concentration and control over movements. Many exercises also challenge your balance and coordination, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who want to prevent falls or improve their performance in sports and activities that require agility and balance.
Focus on functional movement patterns - Pilates focuses on core stability, flexibility, and efficient movement patterns, incorporating movements that are directly applicable to daily life activities, such as bending, twisting, reaching, lifting, standing, and balancing. This helps to improve functional fitness and enables clients to go about their daily activities with greater ease and reduced risk of injury.
Injury prevention and rehabilitation - As mentioned above, Pilates can be directly applied to, and enhances everyday activities and sporting disciplines making it ideally suited to injury prevention. The controlled and low-impact nature of Pilates can be ideal for those rehabilitating from injuries or who have chronic conditions.
When there is an understanding of the exercise system and equipment modifications can be made without losing the original intention and making it suitable for all levels of fitness and abilities.
Potential to enhance athletic performance - Pilates addresses specific muscle imbalances and weaknesses which is beneficial when improving performance in various sports. For example, a runner may find that Pilates helps correct muscle imbalances in the hips and legs, leading to more efficient and powerful strides.
To summarise, Pilates is a versatile form of functional training that offers a multitude of benefits, including increased balance and coordination, a focus on functional movement patterns, injury prevention and rehabilitation, and the potential to enhance athletic performance. Its adaptability and accessibility make it a valuable exercise approach for all ages, fitness levels, and a wide range of activities, promoting overall health and well-being.
Pilates From Within studio has a range of classes on offer to help you explore the studio, from group matwork and tower classes, to 1:1’s, duets, and open studio sessions. The New to Pilates From Within packages provide new clients the opportunities to do just this.
Get in touch or come and visit our studio to learn more about how Pilates can improve your life.