A - Z Guide

What is Body Control Pilates?

Body Control Pilates is very closely based upon the method of body-conditioning and training (Pilates) developed by the late Joseph Pilates. It is an exercise method which relies on strengthening core postural muscles and developing body alignment. It avoids the muscle and ligament damage, sometimes associated with other fitness regimes.

What makes Body Control Pilates different?

Body Control Pilates is remarkably effective - and medically-approved. It is of an holistic nature, being based upon a well-constructed philosophical foundation. Central to the Method is 'awareness of your own body' and each and every exercise is built around its eight basic principles:

• Relaxation
• Concentration
• Co-ordination
• Centring
• Alignment
• Breathing
• Stamina   
• Flowing Movements

By working in the deep architectural structure of the body, 'core stability' is achieved, and then maintained, through increasingly complex movement sequences. Specific problem-areas can be targeted by an exercise, but always in relation to the rest of one's body. Your body awareness is heightened by bringing together mind and body - Body Control Pilates literally teaches you to be in control of your body, allowing you to handle stress more effectively and achieve relaxation more easily.

The Method can work for everyone, regardless of fitness level! Exercises can be mat or machine based, but mat-work exercises have a great attraction in that they need no special equipment, and are particularly safe for those with back problems (and don't forget that 95% of the UK population has, or has had, backache). Its consistent success rate in solving such problems has brought it to the attention of osteopaths, chiropractors, physiotherapists and homeopathic doctors. In fact, some of the more forward-looking osteopaths and physiotherapists are now setting up Pilates studios as part of their practices.

The 'Body Control Body'

The best description of the 'Body Control Body' is long, lean and strong. The body is slender, but with a hidden strength under a healthy muscle tone - we are not looking for bulky muscles and bulging biceps. Through the prescribed exercise routines, we retrain the body to work efficiently with minimal effort and no tension. Stamina and co-ordination are improved. The body comes into perfect balance and alignment, with the result that the immune system is stimulated and the level of general health very often rises because the internal organs can now sit and function correctly. After working with the Method for a period of time, a student will notice improved posture and alignment.

Who is it Body Control Pilates Good for?

• Anyone wishing to improve their total fitness, posture and appearance.
• Professional sportspersons using advanced conditioning programmes to enhance performance (tennis, rugby, football, equestrian, etc.)
• Any athlete can be given an extra edge.
• Performers (actors, dancers, musicians, etc.)
• Chronic back pain sufferers
• R.S.I. sufferersFirst-time exercisers
• The elderly
•  Those wishing to prevent and treat osteoporosis (some exercises use light weights)
• Those with stress-related illnesses, eating disorders, weight disorders
• M.E. sufferers
• Basically, for all!

See also Pilates