What is Pilates?
Pilates originated in Germany in the 1920's when Joseph Pilates developed this method of attaining peak physical fitness. He went on to become a gymnast, skier, boxer and a circus performer. His "Muscle contrology" was aimed at bringing about complete co- ordination of body, mind and spirit and was a success with dancers worldwide including George Balanchine, the founder of the New York City Ballet. These exercise methods remained something of a secret amongst dancers until comparatively recently.
The Pilates Method
Pilates is a thinking person's exercise and every movement is carefully controlled for maximum effect. This method teaches you how to move your body as an integrated system. Good posture prevents all manner of strains, aches and pains and instantly improves the way you look and feel. Pilates is designed to help you achieve strength, flexibility and endurance. The result is a balanced and aligned body that looks longer, leaner and more toned.
The techniques used rely on strengthening core postural muscles. It works by building strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct alignment. Ideally you should incorporate this method into your everyday life not just when you're exercising! Every movement becomes a way of toning and strengthening your body. Working in the deep architectural structure of the body, 'core stability' is achieved. By recruiting the right muscles at the right time pilates helps to reshape the body and restore the natural curves of the spine to achieve perfect alignment.
A little word about my teaching...
My name is Stephanie Saavedra-Hughes. I am a Stott Certified Pilates Instructor and a certified Level 4 Biomechanics Coach. I have been teaching for over 6 years.
I have worked with a wide variety of clients from those seeking a low impact rehabilitative program to those wishing to use Pilates to excel in a chosen sport to deliver more power and better consistency.
My Journey So far...
Ante and Post Natal Pilates
The incredible journey of becoming a mother encouraged me to specialise with one of the country's leading teachers in ante and postnatal care, Judi Difori. I wanted to expand my knowledge on how to help mums and mums- to- be work with their bodies to achieve good postural alignment and optimum physical health. I have been working very closely in this arena helping mums regain their pre- pregnancy figure and posture by re-educating the core muscles that stabilise the pelvis and spine. I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with women at such a life-changing time!
Pilates for Golfers and Horse Riders
Biomechanics
To further my knowledge I went on to study Biomechanics with one of the UK's leading physiotherapists; Martin Haines at Intelligent Training Systems. New scientific research has emerged into ways to approach exercise through a physio and remedial sports therapy approach based on authorities such as Mc Gill.
