PILATES

Expert: Octaviio Galindo started teaching Pilates in 1992, after a long professional career in dance. His studio, Concentric Studio in San Fernando, California, is a physical therapy practice with the goal of helping his clients create a “functional body.” “For the instructor it is much more interesting to be able to work with people who come to you for help because of chronic pain,” Octavillo explained. “It is exciting to actually watch someone improve as they do Pilates.”

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates, who was born near Dusseldorf, Germany, in 1880. As a sickly child he was determined to over come his ailments through the study of anatomy and the various forms of exercise practiced in both the east and west. As he developed his own personal philosophy, he designed the apparatus that would allow him to implement his concept of working on a targeted area while also working on the body as a whole. The distinctive ability to be able to adjust the tension of the equipment to suit the student’s capabilities and needs was an important part of the machines development. At the turn of the century Joseph brought his unique method of physical and mental conditioning to the US. It wasn’t long before the dance community of New York became interested in his work and such notables as Martha Graham, George Balanchine and Ruth St. Dennis were practicing this exercise-based system far before it became popular.

The Pilates method is not just a set of exercises but a complete approach to developing body awareness. It is a conditioning program that focuses on subtle movements to improve muscle control, flexibility, coordination, balance, strength and tone. Its application will strengthen and stretch the body’s core muscles. By taking weak abdominal muscles and strengthening them, the body becomes aligned. Since these core muscles support the spine and protect the body’s organs, as they become stronger the body as a whole becomes stronger. This result is reached over time as part of a natural evolution rather than other exercise programs that force the results.

By practicing Pilates a person becomes more aware of their body as an integrated unit. By also practicing proper breathing techniques, as the body becomes more aligned you develop an increased efficiency of movement. The final result is a heightened sense of awareness.

Unlike weight bearing exercises, Pilates is designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles, open joints and release tension. Thus, the muscles grow longer and leaner. Blood flow is increased and energy begins to stream into specific areas of the body. Those who practice Pilates feel more energized and find their movements less restricted.

One aspect that differentiates Pilates from other forms of exercise is that it takes a commitment on the part of both the student and the teacher. As Octaviio points out, “Pilates requires more personal supervision, but it helps to insure that it is safer and more effective. If the teacher and student create a trusting relationship, you both will enjoy what you are doing and it will therefore have remarkable results.”