Pilates is an exercise system that helps you move more efficiently and, therefore, with less strain on muscles and joints. It’s founder, Joseph Pilates’ philosophy was: “It is the mind itself that shapes the body”. His goal was to rehabilitate and prevent injury in dancers, so he created progressive exercises designed to bring greater awareness to posture and to muscle activation of the trunk (or core). By improving the coordination of the entire trunk, from the base of the pelvis to the crown of the head, the limbs move more freely and exert more power and control, thus creating the apparent effortlessness of a dancer’s movements.
Physiotherapists who are trained in Pilates can similarly help people who are struggling with day-to-day activities and chronic pain. Pilates is not only about the core, but about whole-body integration, moving the body with stability and control, throughout the available range of motion. Patients should expect that because this is a learning process, results will take time, require practice and may result in mental, as well as physical, tiredness at first. However, the long-term benefits of moving better can provide years of better function and can be well worth the effort.
HTS Therapists Trained in Pilates
Denise Miedema
Cristabel Nett
