Today's
health conscious consumer is discovering what dancers, athletes, and physical
therapists have known for years - the results of the Pilates method of
body conditioning are empowering both physically and mentally!
Pilates is often referred to as an "active" or "dynamic" form of Yoga.
German-born
Joseph Pilates, a former boxer and circus performer, began developing
the Pilates system of precise, controlled movements while serving as a
nurse in World War I. Since the inception of this art, we are now finding
medical evidence to support the concepts that are emphasized in Pilates
Conditioning.
Pilates
focuses on building healthy, injury-free bodies by encouraging controlled
and concentrated movement. It centers the body with breath awareness while
maintaining dynamic flow of movement around a stable spine. Pilates is
designed to restore balance and improve control of your body both mentally
and physically. It improves strength, flexibility, balance, control and
muscular symmetry.The series of rhythmic exercises promote elongated and
toned muscles, and are noted for creating your body's power center through
the abdomen, lower back, shoulder girdle and pelvic girdle.
Professional
athletes also use Pilates. For example, Giant's catcher Brent Mayne used
Pilates with his physical therapist to regain strength and mobility following
shoulder surgery in the off season.
Pinnacle Performance Certified Instructors are licensed physical therapists and have extensive training in anatomy, physiology, joint mechanics and exercise intervention with healthy and clinical populations allowing them to skillfully adapt Pilates exercises to safely meet your individual needs and teach you to control your own body.
Pilates
exercises can be done using spring resistance machines or mat work. We
recommend that clients perform mat exercises, either by attending mat
classes or working with a video, at least three times per week for
best results. If possible, we also recommend one to two solo,
duet, or quartet reformer sessions
(link to class schedule or descriptions) where muscular strength, flexibility,
coordination and control are challenged.
What is the best way to get started with Pilates?
Call or email us. We would be glad to answer questions about your individuals needs. All new clients are encouraged to take one solo session or introductory mat class to allow our staff to determine the best progression for each client. The solo session for fitness clients includes a postural assessment and ongoing movement evaluation. All rehabilitation clients are seen individually before being progressed to group classes. At Pinnacle Performance we emphasize safety and proper movement rather than a "routine." Our licensed professional staff will provide you with instruction and programming that helps you meet your goals while maintaining a safe and ideal movement environment for your body type, fitness level, and injury status.
Check our schedule of classes.
Mat I: Introductory mat class offers a gently paced class with an emphasis on proper movement technique and breath control.
Mat
II: Intermediate mat classes include more of the Pilates repertoire
of exercises than those taught in the beginning class. This class is taught
at a moderate pace.
Mat III: Advanced mat classes move along at a quick pace and incorporate a larger repertoire of Pilates exercises. This class is designed for those individuals who are familiar with Pilates and have a core level of strength & flexibility.
Private
sessions allow for individualized programming and an entire session of
hands-on instruction on the full line of Pilates apparatus. Sessions will
include a postural assessment and musculoskeletal screen by our licensed
physical therapists. This will allow our instructors to provide the safest
and most effective workout for your body. All rehabilitation sessions
will be solo sessions.
The
Duets will utilize the full line of the Pilates equipment for two people.
Sessions will allow for significant hands on and one on one time with
your instructor so they are suitable for beginners and intermediate/advanced.
Duet sessions will also include a brief postural assessment prior to an
individual's first session.
The
Quartets are designed to provide a workout in a small group on the floor
model reformers. Several of the movements can be made less strenuous than
the mat exercises; however, we recommend that you attend at least 1 beginner
mat or 1 private session prior to working on the apparatus if you are
new to Pilates! We recommend these classes in 5-week sessions so that
you are able to commit to learning the movements. Class size is limited
to four participants.
PILATES-BASED REHABILITATION (see physical therapy)
We
not only recognize the fitness benefits of Pilates, but have combined
this alternative movement with professional expertise in manual therapy
and exercise prescription. We provide evaluation and intervention that
promotes acquisition of balance, control, and strength with an emphasis
on safety. Our staff is knowledgeable and willing to work closely with
physicians and physical therapists to take our clients to the next level
before, during, and after traditional rehabilitation.
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