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The 8 Principles of Pilates – CONCENTRATION

The PILATES theme of the week is CONCENTRATION (another of the 8 principles of Pilates):

 

The 8 PRINCIPLES OF PILATES:

  1. Relaxation
  2. Concentration
  3. Alignment
  4. Breathing
  5. Centring
  6. Co-ordination
  7. Flowing movements
  8. Stamina

Pilates requires concentration which has the following benefits:

 

1. PROCESSING SKILLS:

Following instructions, cues and corrections from the instructor requires utmost concentration and processing skills. These skills far out way the skills required to complete a crossword or sudoku puzzle and therefore will keep your mind sharp as you get older.

 

2. BODY AWARENESS SKILLS:

Bringing your attention inside your body has a meditative effect on your brain.

Asking yourself questions improves your body awareness, postural awareness and gives you an understanding of your habitual movement patterns:

Questions:

  • How am I positioned on the mat or reformer?
  • Which parts of my body are taking more or less weight?
  • Can I feel my deep core muscles and pelvic floor engaged?
  • Is my spine in an optimal position and length?
  • Which parts of my body feel weak, stiff, or tight?
  • How can I perform this exercise more easily?

 

3. MINDFULNESS:

These skills will enhance your Pilates experience and help to focus your awareness in the present moment.

 

We look forward to seeing you in your Pilates classes this week.