The 6 Principles of Pilates

In the Pilates group classroom I often feel a few essentials get looked over.  I have tried to consider and cue for each of these critical pieces of the Pilates puzzle; though, oftentimes I feel my members would benefit from a one-on-one setting to properly address the individual needs among the sea of men and women I see each week.  I’ve gone so far as to hand out a flyer with these Principles and tried once to briefly outline the details on a white board.  I believe these Six Principles of Pilates are equally important and hold like value:

Concentration 

Connecting the Mind & Body is essential during a Pilates session; we must tap into the discipline necessary to mentally focus on each movement and notice how our body feels.  Being present on our own mat and mindfully participating is key. 

Control

We must allow the mind to control the movement – and not allow our clients to flail about with imprecise movement to avoid injury.

Centering

Our Powerhouse is where all motion originates proceeding outward to the extremities.  These muscles support the spine, internal organs, and posture.  By focusing on our Powerhouse we stabilize the torso, stretching, and lengthening the body.

Fluidity of Movement

By creating smooth, even, controlled and flowing movement we turn inward in both Mind & Body and truly focus on the quality of the exercise. 

Precision

In every movement there is a purpose.  Precision within the Pilates repertoire creates a quality of exercise that is unparalleled.  We do not perform countless, mindless reps; we do not keep pace with our neighbor.  We try to perfect, gradually with practice, precision and graceful movement.

Breathing

The breath is vital to the process in Pilates as it oxygenates the blood and eliminates impurities keeping the bloodstream pure.  We breathe in, completely filling our lungs, to prepare for the movement.  Then we forcefully exhale and wring the air from the lungs while performing the exercise.  This process allows us to strengthen our Powerhouse entirely.

By connecting each of these principles to our practice, the work of Pilates gradually becomes more effective and powerful.  How do you focus on and cue for these Six Principles of Pilates with your clients or customers?  

In Good Health, 

-MV

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