AboutPilates

about pilates

a little history....Improve Posture-Vertebral/Spinal Alignment

Improve Core Strength-Abdominal & Back Muscles

Improve Overall Strength

Improve Flexibility-Decrease Sports Related Injury

Improve Overall Muscle Development

Improve Coordination

Improve Body Awareness

Improve Stamina

Improve Circulation

Increase Range of Motion of Certain Joints

Boost Energy

Stress Relief

Pain Relief- Back Pain, Joint Stress, etc

Relaxation

What is Pilates? Pilates was developed in the 1920's by the husband and wife team of Joseph and Clara Pilates. Initially called "Contrology", it was created to strengthen what is now commonly termed as the "core"--- the muscles that assist in the support of spine and abdomen. A combination of stretching and strengthening exercises, Pilates is ultimately a tool to achieve that elusive mind-body connection.

common misconceptions....

Pilates is similar to yoga. This seems to be the most common misconception about Pilates. Absolutely not true! Not only are the exercises completely different and the breathing may be opposite as well! Yoga does not equal Pilates. Period. Come find out for yourself! We offer both at Spring as well as a Yoga/Pilates Fusion class that melds the best of both worlds.

Pilates is easy-especially mat classes. Mat classes, when done effectively and safely, are the most difficult form of Pilates exercise. Building abdominal strength is the focus of much of the mat work. Utilizing your own body weight and resistance is a great challenge. Adding specific breathing, choreography and control to the mix and you have yourself a challenging and rewarding workout. Ironically enough, the majority of Pilates equipment was created to help a person learn the correct way to perform mat exercises! Spring Pilates emphasizes building strength at your own pace so a mixed level mat class is a great way to start your Pilates experience.

You need to be flexible to take Pilates. No way! You will definitely gain flexibility as you progress. Guaranteed. But even those of you that are the least flexible should be able to perform the exercises. Pilates is about strengthening the core as well as stretching your muscles.

All Pilates is the same. There are many different types of Pilates teaching methods! There are classical as well as modern approaches to the "original" repertoire. The majority of methods today emphasize core strength and uphold the integrity of Joseph and Clara Pilates. However, there are definitely those whose teachings fuse other methodologies--even martial arts! Spring Pilates Wellness Center does not espouse one method over another. There are only a select handful of people that have the knowledge, experience and education to make that call. That being said, we definitely fall into the category of a contemporary approach to the original repertoire!

Pilates does not emphasize strength training. Many believe that you can only build muscle through weight training. We don't dispute that fact! Weight training is absolutely essential. However, Pilates is great in that it builds muscle development through a unique series of exercises that strengthens the core. If you've ever seen a Master Pilates instructor, they are pure muscle. Balance is key.

Pilates is for women. There is definitely a stronger female presence in the world of Pilates. Mostly due to the misconceptions listed here. But that is definitely changing! Elite male athletes are taking Pilates regularly. Psst... including football players, golfers and more!

Pilates is only for the rich and famous. Not anymore. Spring Pilates Wellness Center's motto is: Accessible, Affordable, Attainable. We keep our prices competitive because we strongly believe that everyone should be able to take Pilates, whether it be in a group setting or a private lesson. Great instruction for a great price.

Pilates instructors are similar/same as physical/rehabilitation therapists. Absolutely not true. While good instructors should have a solid anatomy background and basic working knowledge of the various functions of most muscles of the human body, they are not, under any circumstances, replacements or substitutions for physical/rehabilitaion specialists. Spring Pilates definitely welcomes the opportunity to work with your specialist or physician though! It is true that many regular Pilates practioners often find that certain pains becomes alleviated when practicing Pilates regularly. Please consult with your physician before doing any physical fitness activity. And always listen to your own body!

benefits of pilates....

spring wellness center

affordable

accessible

attainable

improve

Posture-Vertebral/Spinal Alignment

Core Strength-Abdominal & Back Muscles

Overall Strength

Flexibility-Decrease Sports Related Injury

Overall Muscle Development

Coordination

Body Awareness

Stamina

Circulation

Increase Range of Motion of Certain Joints

Boost Energy

Stress Relief

Pain Relief- Back Pain, Joint Stress, etc

Relaxation

1350 W. Newport #2 Chicago, IL 60657 Ph: 773.327.1678 Email: spring@springpilateschicago.com