Pilates as a Training Method: A Holistic Approach to Human Movement
German-born Joseph H. Pilates created his training method in the early 20th century. A century ago, he brought his movement methodology to the USA, from where it spread worldwide. Materials about the methodology have survived through films, writings, and personal stories of his students. Today, thanks to better accessibility and dissemination of information, Pilates has developed numerous perspectives and directions of development. But what are the core essence, goals, and prerequisites for successful implementation of this popular methodology?
Classical Pilates or Contrology
The Contrology method developed by Joseph H. Pilates is much more than exercise – it is a transformative system designed to increase human movement potential. Its purpose is to enable people to live with full vitality and vigor. (Pilates, 1945) As Mr. Pilates himself stated, his method is a means to address the challenges of human experience. Today, it seems to be working – the Pilates method is flourishing worldwide.
Through Pilates training, people learn to recognize inefficient movement habits, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to physical decline or aggravate injuries. Pilates encourages people to carefully examine their bodies. This, in turn, increases awareness of movement's impact on physical and emotional well-being.
An important foundation of the Pilates approach is the recognition that each person's body is unique and shaped according to their predispositions, lifestyle, and life course. Therefore, working with each person is a specific task – it must adapt to their movement possibilities and needs. This requires both trainer and trainee to observe movement habits, teach movement awareness to improve movement control, and physical challenge.
Pilates as Training and Somatic Practice
In short, Pilates training is a structured physical activity aimed at improving health and strength. Research supports training as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle (Ruegsegger & Booth, 2018). However, Pilates training differs from traditional gym exercises. Therefore, Pilates training instructors often prefer the term "movement" to emphasize this methodology's broader scope. Pilates is not just training but also re-education of people's movement habits. Clients experience improved physical form in walking, playing, and all kinds of daily activities.
In understanding movement, two basic concepts emerge: macro-movement and micro-movement. Macro-movement refers to larger, visible activities such as lifting weights, running, or performing Pilates exercises. Micro-movement involves subtle and complex articulations that underlie these larger activities, increasing movement efficiency and overall function (Centered, 2022).
Human movement relies on the harmonious combination of both macro and micro-movements. For example, during walking, the ankle performs macro-movements (flexing and extending) while relying on the balancing micro-movements of the subtalar joint. If these micro-movements are restricted, the foot may adapt with inefficient patterns that affect the entire body's biomechanics.
The Role of Observation in Pilates Training
A critical aspect of teaching the Pilates methodology is observing and understanding the trainee's individual movement strategies. Through observation, we gain valuable information about effective approaches. For example, the rotation capability of the femoral head is crucial for both torso and leg movement. If a person has hip joint restrictions, this may limit their ability to perform other necessary movements. Raising the trainee's awareness helps improve movement patterns.
Dynamic assessments, especially those based on gait analysis, can help discover key limitations that promote inefficient movement habits. By addressing these issues, Pilates training instructors with contemporary knowledge can guide people to move more and improve their quality of life.
In Conclusion
The Pilates methodology is a unique blend of training, somatic awareness, and clinical application. By incorporating macro and micro movements, this method not only improves physical form but also promotes a deeper connection with one's body and movement habits. As we continue to explore the transformative power of Pilates, we understand its potential to improve not only physical capability but overall quality of life. This perspective emphasizes that movement is a fundamental aspect of our lives. Thus, adopting Pilates as a holistic approach is a path to better endurance, joy in movement, and greater vitality.
If you're interested in analyzing your movement strategies more deeply to achieve greater joy in movement and thereby improve your achievements and quality of life, come join the class!
References
Black, Madeline; "Centered: Body Organization Through Kinesiology, Movement Theory and Pilates Techniques" 2nd Edition 2022 Handspring Publishing Limited, UK p. 73 Ruegsegger GN, Booth FW. Health Benefits of Exercise. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med. 2018, July 2; 8(7):a029694. doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a029694. PMID: 28507196; PMCID: PMC6027933. Pilates, J.H and Miller WJ; "Return to Life Through Contrology" 1945