“Pilates” is a system of muscular skeletal
exercises and is the culmination of years of human endeavor to optimize
body development and physical training. Credited primarily to Joseph
Pilates, these exercises demonstrate how the body works in functional
movement through isolating specific muscle groups, in particular the
postural muscles.
The exercises emphasize the importance of utilizing
the stabilizing muscles of the body while in motion to create a very
safe and strong form of exercise.
Margret
Dietz, director of the University of Minnesota Dance Department
and founder of Choreogram Dance Company, choreographed a flowing series
of exercises integrating Laban Movement Analysis, Pilates and Feldenkrais.
The sequencing stresses the importance of working opposing/complimentary
stretches with emphasis on the breath. Strength and stamina develop
quickly and protect regular practitioners from injury while maintaining
condition during recovery and healing. She included many standing variations
to reinforce the use of optimal alignment. There are countless advanced
level exercises to challenge the extreme athlete and modifications for
rehabilitation purposes.
The exercises are most effective when supported by
regular massage allowing the body to release chronically rigid smaller
muscle groups.
Discounted packages combing massage and Pilates are
now available.
