Pilates is a physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, after whom it was named. Pilates called his method "Contrology". It is practiced worldwide by millions, especially in Western countries such as Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.

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Joseph Pilates presented his method as the art of controlled movements, which should look and feel like a workout (not a therapy) when properly manifested. Clinical Pilates is the system that provides the physical therapy workout. If practiced with consistency, Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength and develops control and endurance in the entire body. It puts emphasis on alignment, breathing, developing a strong core, and improving coordination and balance. The core, consisting of the muscles of the abdomen, low back, and hips, is often called the "powerhouse" and is thought to be the key to a person's stability. The Pilates' system allows for different exercises to be modified in range of difficulty from beginner to advanced or to any other level, and also in terms of the instructor and practitioner's specific goals and/or limitations. Intensity can be increased over time as the body adapts itself to the exercises. The original six principles were concentration, control, center, flow, precision, and breathing.

 

When taking Pilates classes it is important to be trained by a qualified instructor. A qualified instructor will ensure you do not get injured especially as your body adapts to the more difficult movements within the Pilates System. Protecting the body from injury is one of the foresights of a qualified instructor. Olive Keyes qualified from Pilates Performance Ireland under Master Teacher Sarah MacLachlann who is a 2nd Generation Pilates Master and Educator.