Body Control Pilates
Background
The Body Control Pilates Method is based on
the work of Joseph Pilates who began to develop his Method around the time
of the First World War before opening a studio in New York in the 1920's.
His studio soon attracted the city's 'elite' with actors, dancers and athletes
finding that his exercises perfected and completed their traditional programme
and catered for their individual needs - building strength without adding
bulk, balancing that strength with flexibility and achieving the perfect
harmony between mind and body.
'In ten sessions you'll feel the difference, in twenty you'll see the difference
and in thirty you'll have a new body'. Joseph Pilates
What makes Pilates different?
Pilates is a body-conditioning method that works in a different way to other
fitness techniques. Targetting the deep postural muscles, it works by building
strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct
alignment. It helps to reshape your body which will become longer, leaner
and more toned. It will also improve your posture, achieving the perfect
balance between strength and flexibility, plus it's a great way to relieve
unwanted stress and tension.
Pilates offers both mental and physical training, literally teaching you
to be in control of your body. By improving body awareness and focus, tension
is released and correct postural alignment is taught.
One is encouraged to breathe more efficiently by breathing laterally into
the lower ribcage. The creation of a 'girdle of strength' is one of the primary
aims of the Method. By correcting imbalances, sound muscle recruitment patterns
are encouraged and the body is realigned. Pilates plays a key role in many
injury rehabilitation programmes in dance, sport and general practice.
The core of the Method is 'awareness of your own body' and each and every
exercise is built around its eight key principles:
Relaxation, Breathing, Concentration, Flowing Movements, Alignment, Co-ordination,
Centring and Stamina
Why Body Control Pilates?
The Body Control Pilates Association was setup in 1996 with the
goal of bringing the befits of Pilates to all. Body Control Pilates continues
to enjoy an excellent reputation with regard to the effectiveness and the
quality of its teaching.
Key reasons are:
- Progressive approach - you are taught safe movement skills that give
you the strength and confidence to do more advanced Pilates exercises
- Quality of Teaching - Body Control Teachers are renowned for their
attention to detail and their ability to cater for the the needs of
the individual
- Client Assessment - Before joining a class your teacher will ask
you to complete an Enrolment Form giving details of injuries or conditions
- Class Size - Teachers work to a maximum class size of 12, ensuring
close supervision and support
- Code of Practice - BCPA teachers work to a Code
of Practice that governs standards and ethics
- Access to latest research - The BCPA has access to the latest research findings in areas such as core stability, muscle balance, the pelvic floor; and ensures that these are used in our teaching programmes
View the Body
Control Pilates Association site for more information
