What is Pilates?
Imagine an exercise program that you look forward to, that engages you, and leaves you refreshed and alert with a feeling of physical and mental well-being. The pilates method of body conditioning can do all of this … and more.

Pilates exercises can be done on equipment called apparatus and on the floor called matwork. The center of the pilates method is learning control over the body, with total concentration through every motion, movement and breath. Core strength is the root of the work, stabilize your center, from there all movement stems.

Pilates is gaining popularity due to its dramatic results, including: flexibility, great posture, body awareness, balance, strength, stamina, confidence, energy and mental focus.

Where did pilates originate?
Pilates was originally developed in the 1920's by the legendary trainer and founder Joseph H. Pilates, a man truly before his time. He studied both Eastern and Western disciplines and combined the best qualities of both to form an ideal body conditioning program. Joseph called his work 'Contrology.' He defined Contrology as "The attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body and sound mind fully capable of performing life's many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure." Today, we call this method pilates.

What are the benefits from a consistent practice?
• Isolate, activate and condition deep muscles
• Build core abdominal and back strength
• Restore natural posture and energy
• Develop strength, flexibility and endurance
• Tone and elongate without adding bulk
• Enhance mobility and agility
• Build confidence and mental focus
• Increase circulation
• Relieve stress and tension
• Create body awareness and balance
• Improve athletic performance and stamina

Who can practice pilates?
Pilates encourages you to strengthen your weakest link. Whether you are an elite athlete or just stepping into the fitness scene, there are pilates exercises for everyone. Pilates gets you 'into' your body—creating precision, flowing motion, control, strength, balance and symmetry throughout the body. Participants who are in good health and do not have any physical limitations can participate in group classes. Individuals with health concerns and major physical limitations are encouraged to participate in private sessions.