Take Charge Now

    Speaking of Pilates…We weren’t, well we should talk more about it. Many people don’t fully understand what Pilates is and or what it is for. I know I didn’t. As a Physical Therapist, I had heard of Pilates and had read some about it. I had a misconception of this system because I saw all these dramatic pictures of very slim, attractive people performing these amazing acrobatic feats. I really never knew what it was about until about a year ago when we were planning our new Physical Therapy office. 
    After we had the entire building framed, my partner, Helen Balzli PT, came to me after her first Pilates class and excitedly exclaimed that we have to add space to include Pilates. And, you guessed it, she got her way.  We tore down a couple of the new walls, reconfigured the roof and added some A/C. But not without considerable discussion!! 
    Turns out she was right!! (and if men would truly admit it and listened to the woman in their life, doctors would go out of business). Pilates, as it turns out, is a terrific form of exercise for any and all sizes, shapes, ages and gender that can be utilized in therapy and fitness.
    Pilates is a physical fitness system that was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Pilates was formed during the First World War with the intention to improve the rehabilitation for casualties and regain their health by strengthening, stretching, and stabilizing key muscles.
    Pilates is about fewer, more precise movements, requiring control and technique over increased repetition. Mental and physical health are essential to one another, creating what is a method of total body conditioning. Pilates uses correct alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement to establish a perfect working body from the inside out.
    Pilates builds strength, flexibility and lean muscle tone with an emphasis on lengthening the body and aligning the spine, rather than on bulking and shortening the muscles.
    Pilates has a focus on the core which can basically be thought of as the ‘powerhouse’ of your body. Your core is the area between your shoulders and your pelvis (without your arms and legs) and encompasses all the muscles within this area. 
    Because of its core focus, Pilates is also used in rehabilitation. It can be used to progress individuals through movements that represent their day-to-day activities. The focus on strengthening the core and improving postural awareness are especially well indicated for the alleviation and prevention of back, neck and joint pain.
    Take charge now. Improve your health and well-being. Call your Physical Therapist or Sign up for Pilates-You’ll be glad to did
Tom Coplin, PT
Central Physical Therapy