Pilates classes in Oxford: Helena Bradwell

What is Pilates?
Developed in the early 1920s by the physical trainer Joseph H Pilates, Pilates is a conditioning method that works in a different way to other fitness techniques. Using controlled movements it both targets and isolates specific areas, at the same time encouraging the whole body to move more effectively and efficiently in a more coordinated manner whilst recruiting the deep stabilising postural muscles. Pilates encourages individual progress in a non-competitive environment.

Pilates will dramatically improve strength, flexibility, tone, posture and coordination. Pilates works by building strength from the inside out, rebalancing the body and bringing it into correct alignment.

Pilates is a great way of relieving stress and tension. Physiotherapists, osteopaths and chiropractors refer patients to Pilates as it can be of huge benefit to sufferers of low back pain, neck problems & recurrent injuries.

The Pilates exercises techniques enable exercises to be performed without involved the injured area as supporting muscles are strengthened to give the injury area time to heal. Pilates is a thinking person's exercise requiring concentration and focus to achieve optimum benefit.

The outcome of regularly followed a structured Pilates routine with a professional instructor is a balanced body that is strong and supple with a strong central core and stomach, balanced legs, improved flexibility, a strong back, improved posture and body awareness, combined with the feeling of well being associated with regular exercise.

This can then be taken into any sporting environment, in fact clients who attend this studio regularly include rowers, players of most racquet sports, professional and amateur footballers, cyclists and swimmers, in fact most sports you can think of will benefit from Pilates. And yes, it will improve your golf swing no end!