About Pilates:

What is Pilates??

Pilates is an exercise regimen developed by Joseph Pilates. In essence, it is a way to strengthen the body and enforce proper movement strategies. Focus is on optimizing movement by focusing on breathing, pelvic alignment, ribcage alignment, head and neck stabilization, and deep core activation (Stott Pilates). Pilates is an exercise form that teaches the principles of movement that can be carried into all other activities in daily life and sports or skills needed.

Why Pilates??

Pilates strengthens the deep core stabilizers and as such can help decrease pain by supporting the spine prior to movement of the limbs. Pilates also works to improve balance around joints by working many different muscles in many directions. Pilates can improve range of motion by stretching the muscles in safe manners.

What is a Reformer??

A reformer is a piece of exercise equipment used in Pilates. It is composed of a sliding table. This table is attached to springs which provide resistance. A reformer has a footbar, primarily used for leg strengthening and straps that can be pulled by either arms or legs. One can kneel, sit, lay, or stand on the reformer therefore muscles can be worked in many directions. 

Can Pilates be done at home??

Yes! Even without a reformer at home, exercises done with the reformer can be adapted into a home program on just a mat or with other equipment such as therabands. Physiotherapy sessions will include exercises that you can do on your own to keep optimizing your movement.