Pilates: Method, Benefits & Modern Practice
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of exercise that aims to strengthen your entire body evenly while paying particular emphasis on core strength. The cornerstone of this exercise is controlling and working your body from the core to the periphery.
Pilates exercises help rebalance the muscles around the joints and improve general fitness and wellbeing. These exercises can be done on the floor or on specialised equipment, such as the Reformer, Cadillac, Stability Chair or barrels.
Watch the animation
Who came up with Pilates?
Born in Germany in 1880, the late Joseph Hubertus Pilates developed the Pilates method of exercise. Ahead of his time, he believed mental and physical health were closely interconnected.
His original method of body conditioning was called Contrology, “a complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.”
“It is only through ‘Contrology’ that this unique trinity of a balanced body, mind and spirit can be ever attained.”
Who is Pilates for?
Practically everyone can benefit from Pilates exercise. People from all walks of life, ages, ability levels and fitness backgrounds practise Pilates regularly. Preparatory exercises and infinite modifications allow the technique to be appropriate for many different body types and abilities.
Our Pilates method applies to sport-specific training and everyday life. Specialised Pilates equipment can provide support for those with injuries or mobility issues as well as challenge the most advanced client.
Pilates Today
Although Joseph Pilates was ahead of his time, he believed that the normal spine should be straight. Today, we know the spine should maintain four natural curvatures for optimal function and shock absorption.
Since Joseph Pilates’ death in 1967, advances in exercise science and physical therapy have refined the method. As a result, updated, contemporary approaches like STOTT PILATES® are widely accepted.
What are the health benefits of Pilates?
A growing body of evidence supports Pilates as a beneficial exercise method for strength, mobility, and wellbeing.
- Reduces back pain and improves posture
- Increases flexibility and mobility
- Enhances joint stability and muscle balance
- Reduces stress and promotes whole-body awareness
Can I injure myself in Pilates?
Pilates is low-impact, and controlled movement is paramount, so injuries are uncommon. However, improper movement or overexertion can cause injury. Always choose a qualified instructor and a suitable class level.
All instructors at Core Pilates Studios are certified in STOTT PILATES® and supervised by a registered osteopath trained in rehabilitation exercise.
What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient practice combining physical, spiritual, and mental disciplines, often ending with meditation. Pilates is a full-body conditioning method that doesn’t involve holding poses or meditation, but focuses on the “core.”
Our contemporary Pilates method is anatomically based and relevant for rehabilitation and athletic training, often incorporating equipment such as the Reformer, Cadillac, Stability Chair, and barrels.
Our Methodology
We teach STOTT PILATES®, a contemporary approach developed by Lindsay and Moira Merrithew with a team of physical therapists and sports medicine professionals.
STOTT PILATES® integrates modern exercise science, biomechanics, rehabilitation, and athletic performance principles. The method restores the natural curves of the spine, rebalances muscles, and emphasises whole-body integration.
“Intelligent Exercise, Profound Results®”