6 principles from Joseph Pilates

Whether you choose to work out on a mat or use equipment such as the reformer, these 6 principles from Joseph Pilates are infused in each exercise and offer a mindful approach to how movement is conducted.

1. Centering: Bringing the focus to the centre of the body – the powerhouse area between your lower ribs and pubic bone. Pilates exercises are sourced from the centre.
2. Concentration: Full attention to the movement will equal maximum value to your workout.
3. Control: No body part is left to its own devices. So think of it as a conscious, deliberate movement that the mind is controlling.
4. Precision: Awareness is sustained throughout each movement and the alignment is relative to other body parts.
5. Breath: Joseph Pilates once said: ‘Think of the lungs as bellows’ Most exercises are in sync to breath, therefore perfecting your breath technique is fundamental for any exercise.
6. Flow: The movement in Pilates is done in a flowing manner. The energy of an exercise connects all body parts. Fluidity, grace and ease are goals applied to each exercise. As way of example, when using the reformer, you can easily monitor your flow by the force applied.