What is Pilates?
Pilates is a movement/exercise system designed to build dynamic strength and increase your flexibility, stability and mobility. It is a way of re-educating and re-patterning your mind-body by becoming aware of your movements and connecting with your deeper muscles. The Pilates Method improves your overall functioning and health – not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. It is both gentle and challenging, focusing on moving easily, efficiently and pain-free.
Pilates is named after its creator, Joseph Pilates, and was first called ‘Contrology’. Whilst exercises were originally designed using reformer equipment, he also published a series of matwork exercises that could be performed at home referred to as the ‘original 34 exercises’ (Return to Life Through Contrology, 1945). These exercises have evolved and expanded over time, but still follow Pilates’ 6 fundamental principles:
Breathing | Concentration | Control | Centering | Co-ordination | Flow
Watch a great video about the History of Pilates!
“[I] consider it the best, most thorough class I have attended to date. She really works the muscles and explains very carefully what is required, so I actually discover deep muscles and do the exercises properly. I have felt the improvement in my balance and general posture.I would highly recommend Julie’s classes. “ Rosemary K.
How can Pilates benefit you?
Pilates can benefit anyone and everyone. It is particularly great for:
Stress relief and relaxation
Those who spend lot of time sitting or repeating particular actions
Those in pain – including but not limited to back pain, hip pain, neck pain, shoulder pain
Those with physical conditions, such as scoliosis, hyper-mobility, chronic fatigue, arthritis etc.
Athletes and performers wanting to manage or reduce risk of injury and improve overall performance.
Julie specialises in remedial Pilates and movement. She helps people suffering from pain, injuries and specific physical conditions that would otherwise be difficult to address in a group situation.
Want to find out more?
Julie’s approach to Pilates is informed by the Laban Bartenieff Movement System. Find out more about this approach: