Good Posture, Bad Posture – Who Cares?

Joseph Pilates cared. I care. Clients constantly tell me that they appreciate the cueing I give them to correct their form when doing Pilates. I have a reputation for being very “picky” about form and alignment. This is because, as I explain to my clients, they will see the results they desire sooner if their form is correct.

Improving Posture

When you start practicing Pilates, one of the first changes you’ll notice in your body is that your posture improves. Pilates elongates and strengthens, improving muscle elasticity and joint mobility. You will look taller and leaner and feel stronger. Besides the outward appearance, there are many changes that happen inside your body.

Proper posture helps ensure that joints and bones are correctly aligned which means the individual muscles are being properly used. This helps prevent muscle fatigue, as muscles are being used more efficiently and conserves the body’s energy. Other benefits include the reduction of wear and tear on joints that could ultimately cause arthritis. Maintaining proper posture keeps the spine from becoming rigid and prevents backache.

Pilates Impact on Posture

Joseph Pilates designed a system of exercises that he said, “develops the body uniformly, corrects wrong postures, restores physical vitality, invigorates the mind, and elevates the spirit.” In my opinion, Mr. Pilates was a genius for creating this wonderful system of exercises that he originally called contrology — and which today has developed into what the modern world calls Pilates. Regular practice of Pilates exercises will not only improve posture and balance, but will also improve core strength and stability and flexibility. Joe wrote that the practice of Pilates, “is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace, and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, the way you play, and in the way you work.” When you read quotes like that, doesn’t it make you wonder why the whole world is not practicing Pilates? No matter if you are local or not, we have pilates classes you can take on demand! Check out all our offerings here!

Stay strong and healthy – Keep up your good form!