I believe Pilates is for you
The literal description of Pilates is a body conditioning method, invented by Joseph Hubertus Pilates (1880-1967) and taught by him and his wife Clara in the New York studio they opened in 1926. Unlike anything before, it focused on developing the deeper core muscles for strength and centring. It relied on breathing as an aid to flowing movement, stability and for focus and concentration. Precision was key and only a few reps of the exercise were necessary if they were carried out correctly. Joseph Pilates believed that his method was not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind, in fact he advocated that one could not be healthy without the other.
Joseph Pilates said “Civilisation impairs physical fitness”. In this modern age we move even less than in Joseph Pilates' day, what would he think of us now? I’m sure he would agree that his method is even more relevant today when so much of our time is spent sitting and movement has to be slotted into our busy schedules. Most of the original practitioners of Pilates were dancers or gymnasts, very fit individuals. In light of this the Body Control Method of Pilates was specifically designed to break down the original exercises so they could be taught and learnt step by step. Many new exercises were created so the necessary skills could be gradually layered and to ultimately make Pilates accessible for the average body.
This is the vision I have for my clients; the physical benefits and sense of wellbeing that Pilates provides should be accessible to all - Movement for Everyone.
My Pilates Story
I discovered Pilates whilst living in India. I was looking for a discipline to compliment the equestrian sport of dressage. I wanted something that would improve my flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness when I was riding. Hello Pilates! It was a match made in heaven and the benefits extended into my everyday life. And so at Moushu’s Pilates in Pune, I began my training and teaching career.
On my return to the UK I qualified with Body Control Pilates, gaining a UK, government-backed national standard Level 3 qualification in Pilates matwork. I feel it is essential to keep developing not only for myself but to ensure I am providing the best instruction to my clients. I take regular classes and have also married my two passions; undertaking a Pilates for Equestrians course.
