NewsLady Posted July 2, 2018 Posted July 2, 2018 The Pilates method of body conditioning is a unique system of stretching and strengthening exercises developed by Joseph Pilates, who lived 1880- 1967. In his words, the Pilates method “develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind and elevates the spirit.” Joe was way ahead of his time, viewing the body holistically and emphasizing the body working as a unit. A trailblazer, he evolved his repertoire through continually changing his approach to better attain his desired results. Since his death, the Pilates system has evolved through the teachers [or proteges] he trained in his NYC studio and their students, who have continued to evolve and improve upon his method. Today, over 500 exercises constitute the Pilates method. They can be done on a mat or on one [or utilizing one], of the many pieces of equipment Joseph Pilates invented. This equipment not only includes stationery machines but easily attainable, lightweight portable props. The Ongoing Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30- 9:45 a.m. Prop Classes utilize a myriad of props: including small balls, light hand weights, stretchy band s and magic circles. Class emphasis is widely diverse: beginning in standing- focusing on balance, total body control, postural correction and awareness, upper body strengthening, and then down to the mat: developing the core to strengthen the abdominal muscles and protect the spine and lower back, and also working the legs. Classes may be joined anytime. It is suggested new students come 2-3 x weekly to learn the Pilates method and to feel as though they are progressing. An exercise of the Pilates leg series using a magic circle. Originally invented by Pilates, the fitness ring utilized the steel ring from a beer keg with 2 wooden blocks as handles. Over the years, Pilates props have evolved to be much more user friendly. Today they are much lighter and may even be padded. The New! Saturday 10:30- 11:45 a.m. Mat Class will instruct the Classic mat series, emphasizing the Pilates Principles of concentration, control, precision, flow, correct alignment and proper breathing. Mat work specifically works the core or what Pilates referred to as the “powerhouse,” simultaneously strengthening and stretching the total body creating long, lean muscles. It also emphasizes the thighs and hamstrings, stretching and strengthening the anterior and posterior muscles of the upper-legs. No equipment other than a mat, will be used. Warm-up exercises will be done standing at the wall and/or facing the mirror, to observe and perfect one's form. We will begin with doing the exercises at the beginner's level. Those who can will be shown how to progress. In this manner all levels and abilities of students can work together. Variations will also be shown- perhaps with utilizing props- for those with physical limitations. To whatever degree each person can perform each exercise, he or she is learning and doing Pilates. It is inevitable that with time, patience and practice, each student will acquire better concentration, control and form. Classes may be joined anytime. Regular attendance is preferred to progress with the class as it moves through the series. However, information regarding all levels of Pilates mat classes can also be attained on you-tube, to enhance one's attendance. The Teaser- An Advanced Classic Pilates Mat exercise. A number of variations of this exercise done at the beginner and intermediate levels, tone the muscles and prepare the practitioner to eventually perform the full execution.. Notice the perfect symmetry of the entire body. The legs and lower back are long and strong as are her abdominal muscles. The shoulders and hips are square, and her arms perfectly parallel her legs. Too, her head and neck are connected with the spine, as her chest is lifted and she is looking forward at her toes. The demonstrator has control of her total body. All classes are $9 each, or a 4 class package can be purchased for $30, to be taken within a month. An unlimited class package is also available for $72. Classes in either package may consist of both types of classes. All props are provided. However, do bring a Yoga mat if you have one, to be guaranteed two for comfort, as we go down to the floor. Interested, in either or both classes, but have questions? Email Susan Clare*, Certified Pilates Instructor, at suzeclare@gmail.com *In the US, Susan Clare was a Certified Yoga Instructor and Integrative Yoga Therapist for 20 years, a Personal Trainer in a hospital gym and a lic. Massage Therapist for 30 years. She has, since relocatng to Boquete, been solely teaching Pilates for 6 years. Susan is Passionate about Pilates and totally devoted to preserving the Pilates method of exercise and movement. The more she explores and works it, the more she loves it! Hoping to see You soon! Quote
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