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WAT IS PILATES?

Pilates is an exercise and movement method aimed at strengthening the body and keeping it supple. It improves your posture and acts as a preventative measure against injuries. You learn to develop and improve healthy movement patterns. You build stability, strength, mobility, and flexibility. You get to know your body better and leave a class full of energy.

Pilates is a unique combination of mindful movement and creating a healthy balance between body and mind. The method focuses primarily on strengthening the deeper muscles, also known as the ‘core’ muscles: abdomen, back, pelvic floor, and diaphragm. Training these muscles creates greater stability from the center of your body. This provides a strong foundation for all daily movements and sports activities.

An important principle within Pilates is control. The exercises are performed slowly and with precision, with close attention to breathing, concentration, and body alignment. Quality of movement always takes precedence over quantity. This makes the method suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners alike, young and old, athletes and non-athletes.

Pilates helps you stay flexible and strong into old age, reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, it can alleviate complaints such as back, neck, and shoulder problems, which often arise from poor posture or prolonged sitting.

The method also aids in injury recovery. Worldwide, physiotherapists use the Pilates method as a supplement to regular treatments because the body is strengthened in a safe and controlled manner.

Pilates is not new. The method was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. During the First World War, he helped wounded soldiers with their rehabilitation by developing exercises that improved strength and mobility. In the 1920s, he moved to New York, where he worked with professional dancers and athletes. After his death in 1967, his method was further disseminated and developed. Thanks to new insights from physiotherapy and exercise science, Pilates continues to evolve constantly.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MAT PILATES AND REFORMER PILATES

Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is performed on a mat, using one’s own body weight. Sometimes small props such as a ball, ring, or resistance band are used to provide extra challenge or support.

Features of Mat Pilates:

Focus on core stability and body control.

Working with your own body weight.

Much attention to breathing and technique.

Accessible and suitable for all levels.

Good for developing body awareness.

Mat Pilates often requires a lot of control because you work without the support of equipment. As a result, you learn to use your muscles efficiently and functionally.

 

Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates is performed on a special device: the Reformer. This device consists of a sliding platform with springs that provide resistance. The resistance can be adjusted, allowing the exercises to be made lighter or heavier.

Features of Reformer Pilates:

Working with adjustable resistance using springs.

A wide variety of exercises.

Both support and extra challenge are possible.

Highly suitable for both rehabilitation and intensive training.

Targeted muscle strengthening and mobility.

The Reformer can provide support during certain exercises, making it suitable for people with injuries. At the same time, the device can actually make the workout more intense for those seeking a greater challenge.

WHICH SHAPE SUITS YOU?

Both forms share the same basic principles and work on strength, stability, flexibility, and control.

Mat Pilates is accessible and pure, while Reformer Pilates offers more variety and resistance. Many people combine both forms for optimal results.

Regardless of your choice, Pilates helps you move stronger, more flexibly, and more consciously — resulting in a healthy and energetic body.

Read more about our studio here and view the schedule to book a class.

In the photo from 1951, Joseph Pilates stands on top of opera singer Roberta Peters. Photo: Michael Rougier for Life Magazine.