Are you looking to take up Pilates as a way of keeping yourself fit and healthy? If so, great decision! Pilates strengthens core muscles and improves posture, flexibility, balance, and coordination. But before getting started with Pilates here are the 6 principles of Pilates. Knowing and practicing the Pilates principles helps you get maximum results from your practice!

What are the 6 principles of Pilates?

The 6 principles of Pilates as laid out by the founder of the method, Joseph Pilates, are:

• Concentration – the focus required to perform the exercises correctly.
• Precision – doing each movement with the correct form and alignment.
• Centering – movement originates from the center of your body for a stable foundation.
• Breath – deep, lateral breathing into the diaphragm instead of the belly or chest.
• Flow – continuous, fluid movements throughout the duration of the workout.
• Control – intention and smooth movements, without jerking or bouncing.

By improving the 6 principles of Pilates in your practice, you’ll experience increased benefits and enjoyment. 

What is the most important principle of Pilates?

Arguably speaking, centering is the most important principle in Pilates.  While all 6 are valuable and needed for an effective Pilates practice.  Without centering the benefits of your Pilates practice will be minimal.

Centering brings awareness to the core of your body.  The core is the area from which all movement originates in Pilates.  This includes the abdominals, pelvis, and hips.  The core abdominal muscles include several layers.  The external layer is the rectus abdominous, or the “six-pack” when visible.  Along the side of the torso are the external and the deeper internal obliques.  Beneath these outer layers is the transverse abdominis.  This deeper layer of the core muscles acts as a corset when engaged.  It pulls the core together and in.  These muscles work together, centering you throughout your Pilates practice.  Doing so helps you develop strength, reduce back pain and increase spinal flexibility.

Who created the Pilates principles?

The Pilates principles were developed by the founder of the method, Joseph Pilates.  Joseph Pilates was a German national imprisoned in England at the beginning of WWI.  He taught his principles and exercises to other prisoners during his time there.  Upon release, Pilates moved to New York City.  There he set up his studio with his wife Clara.  They further developed the method and several pieces of apparatus. Practicing the 6 principles of Pilates makes your Pilates workouts more effective.  Well-trained instructors at ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates can take you there.  Our studio in Peachtree City, GA has a full schedule of private sessions and classes.  Sign up today!