Joseph Pilates - the creator of Pilates - called it "control". In his book Return to Life Through Contrology, he defined his work as a way to fully and thoroughly unite body, mind and spirit. His principles, which we now call the principles of Pilates, are the foundation for his approach to physical fitness. While the principles may sound abstract, their integration, according to Pilates, helps to achieve balance, grace and fluidity. Below you will find more information about these eight basic principles of Pilates:
Concentration
Concentration promotes the connection between mind and body. As you focus and become aware of each exercise, Pilates says you will receive optimal physical value from each movement and improve your body awareness.
Center
During your Pilates training, you should consciously bring your attention to the center of your body. As you focus inwardly, this Pilates principle suggests that you bring peace to both your body and your mind. Pilates calls the center of your torso the "powerhouse," from which all energy for exercise is derived.
Control The Pilates method is based on mindfulness, including correct, safe and complete muscle control. With proper control, you use the exact and correct form, leaving no part of your body unattended. In your conscious awareness, you control every movement.
Precision According to Pilates' precision principle, performing one exercise with deliberate accuracy is more important than completing more reps with sloppy form. For this reason, good Pilates instructors give detailed instructions to their students on all Pilates movements.
Breathe
Deep, controlled breathing activates circulation and awakens cells and muscles. Pilates recommends visualizing the lungs as bellows as you take in the air and release it in the same way. He wrote that breathing is the most integral part of practice, and even if one does not follow another recommendation, the most important thing is to learn to breathe correctly.
Alignment From head to toe, the Pilates method emphasizes good posture and awareness of the placement of all parts of your body. During your Pilates training, it is important to be aware of the position of your head, neck, spine and pelvis to ensure proper breathing and technique.
Power
Pilates routines are completed by a gentle flow. Grace, ease, and fluidity are the intentions Joseph Pilates applied to all exercises. Continuous, smooth and elegant movements during the transition from one pose to another, provide strength and endurance according to this principle.
Integration Breath, control, mindfulness, centering, alignment and precision come together when the many muscle groups work together to support and direct movement. By practicing each of the above principles, Pilates achieves its goal of an integrated mind-body workout.
