Pilates Crouch End London N8
Pilates
The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises. It tones and strengthens muscles, improves posture, helps to increase flexibility and balance, uniting body and mind.
At CoreHealth, Pilates is taught on the mat, using small equipment where appropriate.
What is pilates?
The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises developed by Joseph H. Pilates over 90 years ago. It tones and strengthens muscles, improves posture, helps to increase flexibility and balance, uniting body and mind.
It was designed to work directly with the deepest muscles in the body creating a strong core without the pain associated with some conventional exercising, stretching your muscles as you strengthen them, without impact on the joints or exhausting your muscles beyond effectiveness.
How does pilates work?
The Pilates method teaches thoracic breathing whereby you breathe laterally to avoid expanding the abdomen. The aim is then to use the thoracic and back muscles to expand the ribcage sideways and make room for the lungs to expand. This enables the abdomen to stay pulled down and strong to avoid leaving the lower back unsupported and therefore unprotected.
This deep, controlled breathing can also help relieve stress and cleanse the bloodstream, expelling stale air and replenishing your body with fresh air.
In Pilates, learning to control the pelvic floor muscles is also critical in creating internal core stabilisation.
The benefits
Pilates can help to re-teach the body correct form, breaking bad habits, reaping the benefits of better posture, suppleness, abdominal strength and a general feeling of well-being.
It can help alleviate lower back pain, knee pain and neck pain. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, healthy breathing is a primary focus.
Movements are performed with a natural flow and rhythm while still requiring strength and concentration. Pilates teaches balance and control of the body, and that capacity spills over into other areas of one’s life.
Pilates one-2-one
One-2-One sessions enable the client to work within their own capabilities and time frame, facilitating a fast and often intense learning process. The individual’s needs are assessed and a personalised programme set up which can also be practised at home if desired.
These personal sessions offer much more than a group situation and are ideal for those with particular concerns including postural issues, lower back pain, persistent tightness around the neck and shoulders or those just desiring to relieve the stresses of everyday life. The sessions also enable the individual to ask questions and really understand the process and what it is possible to achieve.
Postural and core strength benefits may occur much sooner than when working in a group environment and the client can work at a pace specific to them.
These sessions are suitable for those new to the Pilates technique and for those who have previously attended classes.