WHAT IS PILATES?

Pilates is a movement technique aimed a maximising the efficiency of the body's movements through complete control of mind and body. It is about overall physical conditioning aiming to correct common muscle imbalances, improving both strength and flexibility without building bulk. Whilst is non impact it can be a challenging workout, involving the entire body.

Pilates is considered a holistic approach to improving oneself physically from the inside (the core) out. The method focuses on six primary principles including

• CONCENTRATION - Pilates is a thinking way of moving, connecting you mind and body.
• CONTROL - Each movement serves a function and is performed with complete control
• CENTRING - All energy for the Pilates exercises are initiated by contracting the deep abdominal muscles of the core.
• FLUIDITY - Grace of motion without stiff or jerky movements
• PRECISION - Focus on performing exact and precise movements every single time
• BREATHING - Full deep breathing which drives your movements

The goal is to create a lean athletic physique that has muscle balance throughout and capable of controlled movements without the risk of injury. All movements are safe, low impact, precise and specific. The routines are mat based and designed to cater for the needs of the individual being suitable for the novice though to intermediate and advanced levels.

WHAT BENEFITS CAN I EXPECT?

"Not so much a program or class but more a way of life"

• Improve Balance and Coordination
• Enhanced core (trunk) stability and greater strength
• Postural correction and improved alignment
• A flatter stomach and trimmer waist
• Improved flexibility and overall strength without bulk
• Reduce lower back, upper back and neck pain
• Prevent injury and improve joint mobility
• Enhance breathing control and efficiency
• Enhance mental well being
• Reduce stress levels and promote relaxation

Pilates is suited to everyone and not limited by age, gender, physical ability or fitness level. "After 10 sessions you will feel the difference, after 20 sessions you will see the difference, and after 30 sessions everyone will see the difference!" (Joseph Pilates).

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CLASS DESCRIPTIONS

NEW BEGINNER (MAT LEVEL 1) *

This class is designed for those who have never participated in a pilates class before and is also suited to those individuals who have had some exposure or experience. The class is a mat based class requiring no equipment and provides a range of alternative options for each exercise. You choose the level of difficulty and so the exercise is tailored individually according to your specific needs. We advise participants to begin with the more basic versions of each exercise and work toward the more challenging and difficult options during the ten week term. Many find this particular class challenging for some time and often choose to remain in this class for an indefinite period.

MIXED ABILITY - INTERMEDIATE AND ADVANCED (MAT LEVEL 2) *

This class is suited to those participants who want more of a challenge and who have mastered the most difficult and complex exercise options in the Mat Level 1 (New Beginner) class. Once again various options of difficulty are provided by the instructor and equipment such as Swiss balls, therabands and hand weights are incorporated to increase the challenge and add more variety to the class.

* Max of 12 participants per class

MUSCLES IN MOTION (MM) **

This class is designed for those who wish to participate in a structured and progressive resistance class. The class utilises dumbbells and Swiss balls, with the intensity of the class determined by the participants' choice of lighter or heavier weights. The class focuses on movement techniques, with alternatives for each exercise if required. It is a whole body strengthening class which includes core stability exercises. It is suited to most people who wish to participate in a weights based group class, regardless of prior experience. Muscles in Motion is ideal for individuals who wish to commence resistance training in a supervised and friendly environment.

** Max of 10 participants per class