PILATES EXERCISES

This article presents a theoretical basis for techniques of physical exercises developed by Joseph P ilates. The method, as a part of the so-called Body Mind Exercises group, first gained recognition among profess ional dancers, actors and choreographers but has become more popular and is now regularly applied in sport , fitness and physiotherapy. Pilates is a uniquely precise and intelligent approach to exercise and body-conditioning, which gives you a leaner, suppler, more toned body and a calmer, more relaxed mind. The initial part of the paper presents historical background, principles of performing exercises and benefits using the Pila tes Method. Pilates is a gentle, non-aerobic exercise method, which lengthens and strengthens the muscles, and i mproves posture, without stressing the joints or the heart. The Pilates method incorporates both physical an d mental elements. The technique focuses on the ‘‘power house’’ or what is known today as the core; in Pilate s, this includes the abdominal, gluteal, and paraspinal muscles in particular. The final part of the article includes detailed pilates mat exercise programme (basic, intermediate, advanced ) and evidence for the use o f pilates exercises. The author hopes to encourage the environment of physiotherapists to enhance their profes sional skills with elements of Pilates’ method