We all want a strong, fit and healthy body that we can move without any pain. But how often are we in control of our health and body’s ability to function? Pilates is a popular exercise to achieve optimal health and body awareness. In this blog post, we explore what body control Pilates is and how it puts you in the driver’s seat of your well-being.

What is body control Pilates?

Body Control Pilates, when practiced, teaches you to control your body’s movement.  Another name for it is Pilates body awareness. Joseph Pilates said; “A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion”. 

Pilates teaches us to be in charge of our body, not the other way around.  Through concentration and body awareness, we move with intentionality throughout our Pilates practice.  With practice, our newfound control and awareness spill over into our everyday life. 

What is the benefit of the control principle in Pilates?

Control is one of the six leading Principles of the Pilates method.  Control comes through intentional focus and consistent practice of Pilates exercises.  Control makes our Pilates workout effective through healthy movement patterns.  This not only increases our body strength and mobility, but it also prevents injury. 

What is the best body control Pilates exercises?

The best body control Pilates exercises focus on deepening our core muscle connection.  Core muscles provide stability and strength throughout a Pilates workout.  The core muscles include the abdominals, back, and pelvis.  The best body control Pilates exercises are the simplest.  These include The Hundred, Bridge, and Teaser.  These three Pilates exercises can be modified from absolute beginner to advanced.  They include several creative variations and for the mat or apparatus. While there are more advanced and complicated exercises, any Pilates student can gain body control and awareness with these simple Pilates exercises.

How does Pilates increase body awareness?

Pilates improves body awareness because it requires full concentration and focus.  Going for a walk is great exercise, but it’s also second nature.  While walking, we think about our to-do list, have a conversation, or listen to our favorite podcast.  Pilates, a mind/ body modality, requires engaging the mind with the body. Movements are often unfamiliar at first and challenge our coordination of several body parts. 

Many people walk into Pilates having never exercised before.  The only body awareness they may have experienced was when they felt pain or were in bed with the flu.  Pilates reintroduces us to our bodies.  It shapes a positive relationship with our physical self, developing confidence through movement. 

Learning about how your body moves, and what muscles control movements is empowering.   You feel like you finally have the answers to why things hurt or why certain movements are difficult. More so, understanding body control can help you take charge of your own physical health.If you’re looking to improve body awareness, Pilates is great.  It allows you to focus on controlled movements while also building strength. Plus, it’s a low-impact exercise, making it ideal for people dealing with pain or injuries. Start feeling better in your own skin. Sign up for a class today at ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates.