Power of Pilates
This year our Pilates studio got an upgrade! With the latest reformers, Cadillacs and accessories, there’s never been a better time to give it a try. Here’s a little cheat sheet if you’re new to the method.
PERKS
Low-impact strength
Unlike other resistance training methods, Pilates is extremely easy on the joints but still builds significant strength.
Flexibility and mobility
Many of the movements performed in Pilates incorporate stretching and increase range of motion.
Increased stability
The strong focus on core and back creates a centered, stable foundation for other activities and everyday life.
TOOLS
Reformer
The Reformer is the most well-known piece of equipment in a Pilates studio class. It is made up of a sliding carriage (a bed-like cushion) and set of springs to increase or decrease the challenge.
Cadillac
The Pilates Cadillac Reformer includes bars overhead for specialty movements. These are also called Trapeze Tables because practitioners can perform exercises suspended in the air.
Chair
The smallest piece of equipment, the Pilates Chair, is still incredibly effective for building a strong core and building balance.
HISTORY
- Joseph Pilates created Pilates in Germany in the early 1900s. He suffered from asthma and rickets and developed the program to help strengthen his body.
- He also used it as a form of rehabilitation for soldiers returning from World War II.
- It was originally called “contrology” because it focuses on deep control of muscle groups.
- There are six core principles of Pilates: concentration, centering, control, precision, breath and flow.
- According to IBISWorld, in 2023 there are approximately 48,547 Pilates studios in the United States.
- California has the most Pilates studios at 6,561.