You have probably heard people talking about Pilates in recent years as it’s grown in popularity but do you know what it’s all about? Pilates was first developed by Joseph Pilates, a German, in the early twentieth century. In 1923 Pilates moved to America where he opened his first studio with his wife Clara. The method was initially called “Contrology” but was later renamed. It was instantly successful, initially with dancers who found Pilates a great way to recover from injury and prevent further injuries. The Pilates method came to Britain in 1970 and grew in popularity during the late 20th century.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of low impact exercise that aims to strengthen the body whilst improving posture and flexibility. Pilates movements are slow and precise, working with the breath to target specific muscles. When practising Pilates, the aim is to work to the body’s best alignment, achieving stability within certain areas of the body whilst strengthening others.
Who can do Pilates?
Pilates is an inclusive form of movement so anybody can do it regardless of age, gender, ability or physical strength. Classes are often categorised according to ability : beginner, intermediate and advanced. However, 1-1 Pilates can be specifically targeted to meet the requirements and needs of the individual.
What equipment do I need?
In order to do mat Pilates all you need is comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and an exercise mat. Many Pilates studios or gyms will provide a mat. Any additional pieces of equipment needed will be provided by the teacher, studio or gym. These may include head cushions, resistance bands, foam rollers and Pilates rings.
Where can I do Pilates?
The beauty of Pilates is that all you need is enough space to exercise on a mat. Pilates can be undertaken in your home, outside in a garden or park or in a studio or local gym.
How long does a session last?
Typically a Pilates session will last between 45 minutes and an hour. However 1-1 Pilates sessions can be made longer or shorter to suit a clients requirements.
Contraindications
Most people are safe to do Pilates. People with severe injury or illness should seek medical approval prior to undertaking Pilates and pregnant / post natal clients would need to find a specific pregnancy class or post natal class.
The benefits of Pilates
Pilates has a long list of benefits which include: increased core strength, improved posture, decreased back pain, decreased risk of future injuries, improved energy, decreased stress, improved flexibility, mobility and balance. It can also help improve mood, sleep and increase bone density.
About us: Fast Track Fitness
We are a small studio based in Twyford just outside Winchester, Hampshire. We offer 1-1 and 1-2 in person sessions or online. We are also happy to do Pilates sessions in the comfort of your own home. These sessions generally last 45 minutes but we would be happy to make them shorter or longer depending upon need. Rachel is Stott Pilates trained and loves working with clients to improve strength and flexibility and really making sure clients enjoy movement.
At Fast Track Fitness we also offer 1-1 and 1-2 EMS and personal training sessions. If you are interested +in finding out more about what we do, or booking a free trial, we would love to hear from you: https://www.fasttrackfitness.net/contact-us/
You can also follow us on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FastTrackEMS
