The Six Principles of Pilates
Did you know that all six colours represented in the Olympic symbol – the white background and the colours of the rings – blue, yellow, black, green and red – are all represented in the South African flag? Interesting.
As with anything important going back to the origin or source often reveals principles or ideas that are still very relevant today. Ron’s article on the Olympics and its history shows how the original concept and principle of the Games still rings true today.
It is the same with Pilates exercise – the basic principles remain relevant despite more research and modern methods of exercise.
1. Breathing – without breath there is no life. Breathing correctly has many health benefits and can be especially helpful during exercise. Breathing helps set the rhythm of exercise ensuring that you do not rush through the routine and at the same time supply all the muscles and organs with necessary oxygen. During times of stress – a good inhalation and exhalation provides a well-timed PAUSE which could be the difference between a wise decision being made and a mistake one might regret.
2. Posture – Snoopy says it all in this next cartoon strip.
3. Flexibility – an inflexible body and mind can inhibit ones ability to move forward. Far too little time is spent stretching the muscles we so desperately want to develop to enhance our performance. The same can be said of an inflexible mind which does not allow for other thought patterns. What often amazes me is how when the body becomes more flexible so too does the mind – why I should be surprised at this is a mystery as our emotions and physical bodies are closely related.
4. Flow – exercises should be performed so that they flow and seem effortless. Movements should not be quick and uncontrolled. The golf swing is usually broken into 3 parts – the address, the backswing and then the follow through/finish; when these three elements are put together and executed effectively they are meant to flow. The first 3 principles will have a great impact on this fourth principle.
5. Precision – all movements need to be executed correctly. This does sound a bit rigid and anything but flowing but it also makes a lot of sense. A half hearted attempt at anything is just that – half-hearted. But when focus and attention is given to an activity it creates a whole different result on all levels – mentally, emotionally and physically.
6. Core Connection – use the correct muscles for the exercise. Using the abdominal muscles to help create stability or movement while maintaining postural alignment is the difference between performing the exercise correctly and incorrectly and each will have its own results. Knowing where your centre is and working from this point mentally, emotionally and physically will most certainly bring the desired outcome.
“Faster, Higher, Stronger.” The Olympic Games motto remains as relevant today as when it was originally proposed. Athletes have indeed become faster, stronger and reached goals far higher than expectations or what 5 years ago seemed possible, yet the basic principles of attaining this level of expertise remains the same.
Just breathe….