PILATES
Pilates is system of physical and mental conditioning known to increase strength, flexibility, coordination, reduce stress, improve mental focus and improve overall health and well being.
“Everyone is the architect of their own happiness.””
Pilates exercises apply practically to any movement practice such as a Sport, dance, yoga and everyday movement. The focus of Pilates exercises is to strengthen muscles closest to the center of the body - or core muscles, along with breathing to develop effective core muscle activation. Pilates develops:
Breath: The fuel for the body, mind and spirit that drives all Pilates exercises.
Concentration: Direction of attention to an objective- a mental checklist which includes awareness of breath pattern and muscles about to be worked, stabilization and alignment. Mental concentration is maintained for duration of session.
Centering: Activation of the core as well as the feeling of balance within oneself.
Control: The regulation of the execution of a given exercise. Control uses less effort and avoids excessive muscle tension.
Precision: Precision is key to the Pilates approach to movement and to infinite corrections that need to be implemented through the learning process. The greater the precision the more likely the goal and benefit will be achieved.
Flow: A smooth uninterrupted continuity of movement.
“It’s the mind itself which builds the body.”
Bio: Julie is a Fully Certified Pilates Stott instructor. She is currently Lead Instructor and Master Trainer for Club Pilates Alameda. She was also certified in Mat through A Working Body in Oakland, CA and studied with Mercy Sidbury for one year. Her experience spans over 12 years of Pilates teaching and thirty years as a movement educator.