|
YOGA/PILATES
For a Yoga/Pilates class schedule
click here
PILATES MAT AND APPARATUS
OVERVIEW
Pilates Mat and Apparatus Overview Pilates is an exercise program
that focuses on the core postural muscles that help keep the body
balanced and are essential to providing support for the spine. In
particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of neutral alignment
of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support
this alignment, which are important to help alleviate and prevent
back pain. Important principles of the Pilates exercise program
include:
- Use of mental focus to improve
movement efficiency and muscle control.
- Awareness of neutral spine
alignment, or proper posture, throughout the exercises.
- Development of the deep muscles of
the back and abdomen to support this posture.
- Use of breath to promote mental
focusing and centering.
- Creating length, strength, and
flexibility in muscles.
Initially the Pilates exercise program
was primarily used by professional dancers, who appreciated improved
strength, balance and flexibility. In the 1980’s Pilates was re-discovered
and has now become a popular form of exercise for anyone interested
in its health benefits. The exercise system is usually taught in
one of two formats:
- Using the unique Pilates equipment
in private, or semi-private, sessions.
- Group mat classes not using
equipment.
EQUIPMENT
The Pilates equipment uses the resistance of springs to
create effort. The principle piece of equipment is called the Reformer
and consists of a sliding platform anchored at one end of its frame
with springs. The platform can be moved by either pulling on ropes
or pushing off from a stationary bar. Thus, exercises include the
challenge of moving the platform and maintaining balance on a moving
surface (if sitting or standing). Another Pilates machine is called
the Cadillac and consists of a padded platform with a cage-like
frame above it. From this frame various bars or straps are attached
by springs. A third piece of equipment, the Wunda Chair consists
of a small bench-like platform with a bar attached with springs.
Exercises are done by pushing on the bar while either sitting or
standing on the bench, or standing or lying on the floor. Several
other pieces of equipment unique to the Pilates system (Ladder Barrel,
Foot Corrector, Spine Corrector, etc.) are also likely to be encountered
at Pilates studios.
MAT
Usually taught as part of a group class,
mat exercises primarily focus on strengthening the muscles of the
trunk and hip and increasing the flexibility of both the spine and
hips. While the scope of the mat program is limited compared to
the machines, there are many mat exercises that illustrate the Pilates
principles. YOGA
Developed in ancient India to unify body and mind with universal
spirit, thereby encouraging physical and mental well-being. Most
commonly involves a series of stretching postures (called asanas),
breathing exercises, and meditative practices. Increases flexibility,
improves muscle tone, and is helpful in the reduction of stress.
GYROKINESIS®
Exercises allow one to work on the entire body through seven natural
elements of spinal movement: forward, backward, left side, right
side, left twist, right twist and circular, as well as all other
joint articulation. This approach systematically and gently works
the joints and muscles through rhythmic and undulating movements.
These movements stimulate the body's internal organs while different
corresponding breathing patterns are integrated along with the movements.
Fluidity is the key and postures are not held for long periods of
time. Instead, postures are smoothly and harmoniously connected
through the use of breath, making exercises appear and feel more
like a dance and swimming than like traditional yoga.
A typical GYROKINESIS® class begins with participants practicing
self-massage and simple breathing patterns, something named, "Awakening
of the Senses". The spine and pelvis are engaged through simple
exercises: while seated on low stools, participants mobilize the
spine through a series of arching, curling, bending, twisting and
spiraling movements. These same movement patterns are expanded to
release the hip, knee, hamstring, quadriceps and so on, in all possible
directions: front, back, twisting and turning. The corresponding
breathing patterns executed during every movement stimulate the
nervous system, open up the energy pathways and oxygenate the blood.
The more advanced classes offer endurance training to participants
prepared for more strenuous activities. All GYROKINESIS® classes,
from beginner to advanced, encompass not only sitting but also laying
and standing positions.
Those who practice GYROKINESIS® exercises tend to be more relaxed
in their daily lives and can move with increased flexibility and
ease.
For a Yoga/Pilates class schedule
click here
|
|
