A focal point of Pilates, the ‘core’ is comprised of the deep postural muscles of the body, which support the torso like a corset. Pilates teaches one how to use these muscles to stabilise the pelvis and lumbar spine and in doing so counteract back pain and poor posture.
From this strong ‘core’, precise, flowing movements are made while the mind focuses on relaxation, concentration and co-ordination . The muscle and ligament damage associated with other fitness regimes is avoided by the controlled nature of the exercises.
The Pilates method was developed by Joseph Pilates in New York in the 1920’s.
He was a pioneer in the field of body-conditioning, combining mental focus with physical challenge.
With our modern knowledge of biomechanics and anatomy we know his method was successful, in large part, to his emphasis on what we now call the ‘core’.