Thursday 30 March 2017

Peta's A-Z of Pilates: E is for ...

The energy we expend when exercising should be just the right amount, so in Peta's A-Z of Pilates, E is for ...


Energy

The energy we expend when exercising should be just the right amount not too much and not too little. This may seem like an obvious thing to say but if when you perform a particular exercise and you use too much energy, other parts of the body will be engaging unnecessarily and using up precious energy.

When performing an exercise we need to use the least amount of energy we possibly can. When the body is in total balance our energy consummation is at is optimum, you will be using just the right amount to complete the movement. Extraneous movements should be eliminated to conserve energy for when we need it.

When your posture is in perfect balance and alignment, you will not feel any group of muscles working harder than another. They are all working equally to minimise the energy consumption.

Thursday 16 March 2017

Peta's A-Z of Pilates: D is for ...

Pilates rewards regular practice, so in Peta's A-Z of Pilates D is for ...
Discipline

Learning to do Pilates takes discipline.

If you want to reap the benefits of improved posture, strong core muscles and joint mobility you will need to practise regularly.

These things will happen gradually over time and cannot be achieved in one or two classes. If you really want to see a change in your body you need to commit to a series of classes at least one a week to see results.

These results will come. You will begin to notice small changes in the way you move, how it is easier to bend down or reach up or turn your body from side to side.

This is the wonderful effect of Pilates practice, the gradual easing of aches and pains, improved mobility and strength.

Thursday 2 March 2017

Peta's A-Z of Pilates: C is for ...

Pilates focuses on the deep lying muscles in the torso, so in Peta's A-Z of Pilates C is for ...
Core

When Pilates instructors talk about the 'core', they are referring to the muscles found in the torso, near the spine. When these muscles are weak, they often contribute to low back pain.

Pilates exercises are perfect for firing-up these deep lying muscles and strengthening the back and stomach muscles.

One of techniques that Pilates uses to engage these deep muscles is to perform the exercises with care and control, trying not to rush through the movements.

When we learn how to switch on these muscles effectively, non-specific low back pain can disappear, and posture improves.