— What is Pilates

Pilates is a physical training method developed in the 1920s by the German Joseph Pilates with the aim of improving posture, strength and flexibility of the whole body, thus contributing to the improved functioning of the entire organism.

It consists of physical exercises and stretches which use the weight of the body itself in its performance. In addition, Pilates is also a movement re-education technique which aims to work the whole body, improving muscular and mental balance.

 

Joseph Pilates

"Pilates is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit."

As a child, Joseph suffered from asthma, rickets and bronchitis. Early on he decided to counteract his weakened form and through physical activity found a solution to overcome his problems.

In 1912 he moved to England and became a boxer. With the outbreak of World War I, the British Authorities confined Joseph Pilates because of his German Nationality and due to this forced isolation Joseph Pilates decided to use his time to develop some ideas on Health and Fitness.

He adapted and based his ideas on exercises that were performed on the ground.


 

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Creation of the Method

Later, still during World War I, Joseph Pilates became a nurse and worked in the recovery of the wounded.
Using bed springs, he created training tools to improve the physical condition of these patients.
He noticed that the execution of exercises with resistance caused greater efficiency in the recovery of these individuals, where the recovery of muscle tone happened more swiftly.

The method was developed in the 1920s, based on the concept called contrology. This concept is nothing more than the conscious control of each movement executed by our body through muscles, tendons, ligaments and our entire structure. It is based on concentration, strength and mobility exercises, using specific exercises.

Benefits of Pilates

The benefits are many, from physical, mental and even emotional.
Physical Benefits
  • Increased vascular and cardio-respiratory capacity;
  • Strengthens the CORE (abdominal muscles);
  • Increases the stability of the spinal column;
  • Delays the degenerative and maturing processes;
  • Decreases stress and muscle fatigue, bringing energy and vigour;
  • Recommended in rehabilitation and injury prevention;
  • Helps weight control;
  • Tones without increasing volume;
  • Increased strength, flexibility, endurance and greater body awareness.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
  • Increased concentration and mental functions
  •           (memória, inteligência, criatividade e atenção);
  • Self-knowledge and body consciousness;
  • Increases mental agility;
  • Encourages self-control, confidence and security;
  • Improves body image and self-esteem;
  • Improves body awareness and sensitivity;
  • Works as an anti-depressant.

Pilates is not just a method, it is a lifestyle!

The Pilates Method that we develop at SYMETRIX gives special relevance to individual and personalised assessment, working on the specific weaknesses/dysfunctions of the body.
We teach you how to train the mind and build body symmetry and coordination, by involving the whole body in synergy, just as we should move every day, thus transmitting a high degree of satisfaction.
We have highly qualified professionals and a wide range of services which complement each other. All in a harmonious and serene space, with excellent client care.
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Principles of Pilates
and its methods:

The method, initially called Contrology, perpetuates the importance of
controlling all the movements and muscular actions of one's own body.
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BODYCONTROL PILATES

6 principles of the method
  • Concentration
  • Centering
  • Precision
  • Breathing
  • Control
  • Fluidity

APPI - AUSTRALIAN PHYSIOTHERAPY & PILATES INSTITUTE

5 principles of the method
  • Strength
  • Coordination
  • Control
  • Consciousness
  • Control in the CORE musculature

STOTT PILATES

5 principles of the method
  • Breathing
  • Pelvic position
  • Ribcage position
  • Stabilisation and scapular movement
  • Head and cervical position
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