JOSEPH PILATES
‘My method develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong posture, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind and elevates the spirit’ Joseph Pilates
Born in Germany in the late 1800s, Joseph Pilates suffered with a multitude of illnesses including rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever. Determined to improve his physical strength he dedicated his life to creating a movement practice that incorporated multiple disciplines including martial arts, gymnastics, dance, yoga, skiing and weight training, with the overall aim of increasing his physical wellbeing. Formerly known as Contrology, Pilates has become a popular, safe and effective form of exercise that has many health benefits that counter the effect our everyday lives have on our bodies.
‘Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness’
Joseph Pilates
RACHAEL BAYLISS
In 2016, after obtaining a BA (Hons) Degree in Dance Studies from The University of Roehampton, I began performing and collaborating with local artists in Devon.
I have an undeniable passion for movement so in 2017 when I ruptured the ligaments in my lower back, I was devastated. I was in my early 20s and unable to put socks on without pain. My physiotherapist advised me to start practicing Pilates.
For two years I attended Pilates classes at my local gym, but it wasn’t until I found a Body Control Pilates teacher that the magic of Pilates was unveiled. Within two months of me practicing with my local BCP instructor, my back pain was gone. The attention to detail and knowledge of my instructor was paramount to my recovery.
Today, I am a Level 3 Body Control Pilates Instructor, with specialist qualifications in:
- Osteoporosis
- Hypermobility
- Antenatal and Postnatal
My intention and aim is to share the gift of pain free movement Pilates can provide.
‘Change happens through movement and movement heals’
Joseph Pilates
BODY CONTROL PILATES
Body Control Pilates is Europe’s leading Pilates organisation who facilitate advanced teacher training through the adaptation of Joseph Pilates’ original exercise sequence, known as The Classical Mat. Body Control Pilates is unique in the way it prepares the body for the classical Pilates exercises, breaking down each movement, understanding the exercise anatomically with the goal of learning good biomechanics, therefore improving posture, overall strength and flexibility.
Body Control Pilates follows 8 principles:
- Concentration
- Relaxation
- Alignment/Precision
- Breathing
- Centring (Core stability)
- Co-ordination/Control
- Flowing Movement
- Stamina
The goal of the matwork sequence is to create a natural flow of movement, gradually increase the precision and energy with which you perform the movements without compromising control. With each exercise the fundamental principles should be considered and maintained, to fully access the benefits of each movement.
‘Contrology is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit’ Joseph Pilates
