What is Pilates? Would you like to improve and develop more body strength, flexibility and awareness? Pilates exercises are controlled movements along with breathing techniques that are designed to strengthen the body while improving postural alignment. If you would like to learn more about Pilates, recovering from an injury or you would like to improve[…]
30 August 2018∙6 minutes reading time
How Can Pilates Benefit Your Life Pilates is a popular exercise, known throughout the world. Each year it continues to rise in popularity as people gain awareness of how important it is to take care of their health. Young and old are frequenting Pilate’s studios worldwide to get better health, better posture, proper body awareness[…]
29 August 2018∙7 minutes reading time
Why Should You Take Pilates Lessons?
Pilates is a physical conditioning method developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. Originally called Contrology, the method focuses on controlled movement, posture, alignment, and breathing.
Pilates is based on six key principles: concentration, control, centring, precision, breath, and flow. These principles guide every movement, whether you’re practising mat-based Pilates or using specialised equipment such as the Reformer.
Mat Pilates uses body weight and small props to build strength and mobility, while Reformer Pilates adds resistance through springs to improve muscle tone, balance, and coordination.
Whether your goal is to improve posture, strengthen your core, rehabilitate an injury, prepare for childbirth, or lose weight, Pilates offers a wide range of benefits.
Pilates is for everyone! There are exercises suitable for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
To see real results, consistency is key. Pilates may look gentle, but don’t be fooled, it’s a full-body workout that will leave you feeling strong, energised, and challenged.
The Benefits of Pilates
Pilates offers physical, mental, and postural benefits, combining strength and mindfulness in one practice.
Physically, Pilates helps strengthen deep core muscles, including the abdominals, lower back, hips, and glutes. It improves flexibility, muscle tone, and overall body alignment.
Pilates is particularly beneficial for back pain, as it focuses on spinal stability and controlled movement. Many exercises target posture-related imbalances caused by long hours of sitting.
Regular Pilates practice can also improve joint mobility, balance, and coordination, making it an excellent form of low-impact exercise.
Like all physical activity, Pilates supports your immune system and overall health throughout the year.
Mentally, Pilates encourages concentration and body awareness. Controlled breathing helps calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and improve focus.
By becoming more aware of how your body moves, Pilates can boost confidence and promote long-term well-being.
Learning Breath Control and Body Awareness
Breathing plays a central role in Pilates. Each movement is coordinated with breath to maximise efficiency and control.
Proper breathing helps activate core muscles, support the spine, and improve circulation. It can also aid digestion and reduce tension.
Pilates classes often emphasise mindful movement, helping students feel more connected to their bodies while improving physical performance.
Who knew that controlled movement and breathing could be so powerful?
Get in Touch with a Pilates Tutor
Before starting mat-based Pilates or Reformer Pilates, it’s important to learn correct alignment and technique to avoid injury and get the most out of each exercise.
A qualified Pilates tutor can guide you through movements step by step, ensuring proper form and breathing from the very beginning.
Whether you’re looking for Pilates classes for beginners or advanced sessions, for children or adults, our tutors are here to help. They can tailor lessons to your fitness level, goals, and any specific health concerns.
Our teachers offer in-person Pilates classes, online Pilates lessons, or sessions in the comfort of your own home.
Check out our selection of Pilates teachers in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Port Elizabeth, and start your Pilates journey today.