About Pilates

Pilates is a structured and holistic body training which stretches and strengthens the muscles of the entire body in an effective way. The approach includes stretching and strength exercises as well as breathing techniques – together over 500 exercises with and without apparatuses.

A Pilates exercise programme can be individually adapted to any fitness level. Therefore, it can be practised by everyone, regardless of age and physical condition. Senior citizen or sports professional, new mother or someone recovering from an illness or accident – all can participate in a Pilates training.

The Pilates approach was developed by Joseph Pilates who was born in Mönchengladbach, Germany, in 1883. The concept is based on the idea of controlling the muscles with the mind. For this reason, the Pilates method was initially called “Contrology”.

The objective of the Pilates method is to strengthen the muscles and to improve your posture. In addition, it improves your fitness and the coordination of your body movements. The exercises stimulate the blood circulation, teach controlled breathing techniques and encourage an increased body awareness.

Pilates exercises focus on the core, i.e. the muscles of the abdomen, lower back and hips. This region of the body is called the “powerhouse”. All movements are slow and fluid to be easy on joints and muscles.

Targeted exercises on mats and on special apparatuses – designed by Joseph Pilates - strengthen in a careful way the spine, muscles and joints. However, Pilates is not only an effective and soft method to strengthen the muscles of the abdomen, lower back and hips. It generally also has a positive impact on body balance, controlled breathing and concentration.