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Six Principles of Pilates

Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breathe, and Flow

For many followers there are six principles that make up the foundation for present day Pilates training which were not set out by Joseph Pilates but based on his original work called "contrology". Joeseph Pilates originally considered this to be a body/mind/spirit approach to movement and with these basic principles incorporated into his approach each exercise is performed with intension and fullness of expression. The Pilates community may not always agree about the order of principles, the specific words used for certain concepts or the number of principles but in your pursuit of Pilates training you will find some version of the Pilates principles similar to what I present here.

Centering: Physically bringing the focus to the center of the body, the powerhouse area between the lower ribs and the pubic bone. Energetically, Pilate's exercises are sourced from the center.

Concentration: If one brings full attention to the exercise and does it full commitment, maximum value will be obtained from each movement.

Control: Every Pilates exercise is done with complete muscular control. No body part is left to its own devices.

Precision: In Pilates, awareness is sustained throughout each movement. There is an appropriate placement, alignment relative to other body parts, and trajectory for each part of the body.

Breathe: Joseph Pilates emphasized using a very full breath in his exercises. He advocated thinking of the lungs as a bellows - using them strongly to pump the air fully in and out of the body. Most Pilate's exercises coordinate with the breath, and using the breath properly is an integral part of Pilates exercises.

Flow: Pilates exercise is done in flowing manner. Fluidity, grace, and ease are the goals applied to all exercises. The energy of an exercise connects all body parts and flows through the body in an even way. Pilates equipment, like the reformer, are very good mirrors of one's flow and concentration as they intend to bang around and suddenly become quite "machine like" if one loses control and flow.

Abstract as the Pilates principles may sound it is important to note that integration of these prinicples accounts for balance, grace, and ease that one can experience as a result of practicing Pilates.

Pilate's Educator, Michael Miller has his own point of view of these principles; "Pilates principles are the fad issues these days, as though you could explain Pilates through a vague and randomly ordered focus on principles".

This may be true to some but these six principles may be vital to the progress of many Pilates students.

As a personal trainer learning Pilates from a certified instructor has helped my personal fitness as well as my clients. Pilates may be a great addition to your exercise regime. As with any new exercise program consult your doctor, physiotherapist, or chiropractor before starting Pilates as it may not be the right type of exercise for you if there are any pre-existing health concerns. Also, with any new physical activity remember to start with the basics and learn them well before advancing to the next level. With practice and patience you'll soon see the results of you efforts by developing better body awareness, improved posture, flexibility and balance.