Pilates: Which Pilates Is For You?

With only 3 days left until Reformer Pilates launches at Eltham Leisure Centre, here is a little more about the different types of Pilates which will help you choose the right Pilates for you.

Pilates is a widely accepted exercise regime that will cater for everyone.  Pilates itself is based around the principles of:

Centering – Bringing focus, control and stabilization back to the core.

Concentration – Focusing purely on what you are doing, and the movements involved.

Control – Completing exercises slowly and smoothly.

Precision – Technique is everything.

Breathing – Incorporating an even breathing pattern into the exercises.

Flow – Moving smoothly between exercises.

General Mat Work Pilates

Mat Pilates is instructed in a group class setting with modifications in terms of difficulty can be provided, however there is generally a ‘one size fits all approach’ regarding class structure and exercise prescription.

The health benefits of Pilates include: improved flexibility, increased muscle strength and tone, particularly of your abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and buttocks.

Reformer Pilates

Using reformer bed equipment, reformer Pilates is instructed in a group class by a trained instructor. Modification and tailoring provided, however class is intended to accommodate general health and wellness, and less on individual needs regarding injury and body systems.

The reformer offers all the benefits of Pilates including overall strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. The reformer requires you to work against resistance that can be adjusted by using a combination of the 5 springs. Training with resistance helps build strength. By incorporating Pilates props; such as weights, ball or magic circle, the class is jam packed with new interesting sequences that work the entire body!

Clinical Pilates

A thorough assessment is completed prior to attending a Clinical Pilates session and the program meets specific client needs.  Clinical Pilates is a one-on-one or small class setting and can only be taught by a health care professional (e.g. Physiotherapist).