Pilates

Pilates is an exercise method originating from the work of Joseph Pilates. In the 1920’s top ballet dancers found that his exercises benefitted their normal training. Athletes and entertainers also found benefits of his method as it built strength without the bulk and improved balance with increased flexibility. The exercises are designed to strengthen the core muscles within the torso and this has a direct effect upon the optimum muscular and skeletal function. It is a holistic approach to exercise that sets it apart from other methods of exercise and this is why so many Osteopaths, Physiotherapists and General Practitioners recommend it as the safest form of exercise today. Pilates can be beneficial for just about everyone regardless of age or fitness level.

What are the benefits?

Pilates improves posture which is becoming more of a problem as jobs become more sedentary and too much time is spent in front of computers. It is this problem which is increasingly being seen in the poor posture of teenagers.

Pilates promotes longer and leaner muscles, improves core strength and stability, helps prevent injury, and improves balance, coordination and circulation. Pilates also compliments other exercise methods being a muscoloskeletal conditioning programme and is ideal in conjunction with cardiovascular and weight training programmes. You can expect an increase in strength, flexibility, mobility, balance and body awareness as well a decrease in back pain and other general pains and stress.

Richard Ellis

Richard Ellis has been practicing Pilates for the last 12 years and has been involved in the fitness industry for the last 20 years. He has been teaching Pilates in the Cotswolds for 5 years and is a Central YMCA Advanced Level 3 CYQ qualified instructor, which currently is the highest level qualification standard.

Richard offers one to one and class based tuition in the CHHC studio.

www.stowpilates.co.uk