U3ADenia - Pilates

 

Email pilates@u3adenia.com 
Group leader:  Ginny Whitehead
Meetings:  Wednesday
Time:  10.30am
Venue:  Denia Centro de Fitness

 

Teacher - LOURDES

The group meets every Wednesday in Reception from 10.15am for our class at 10.30am. Please contact the Group Leader if you would like to join us.

Lourdes is an excellent teacher, speaks English, and runs a successful class with different levels of ability.

EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING and SAFETY MEASURES
~ Exercises are normally done in stockinged feet.
~ Wear loose clothing.
~ Preferably have your own exercise mat. They can be obtained from a local sports shop or one of the Chinese bazaars, but the gym will provide one for you.
- Bottle of water to stay hydrated
- Small towel
~ Other equipment inc balls, bands and rings are provided by Denia Fitness Centre.


ABOUT PILATES

Pilates was a physical fitness system developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Research has shown that Pilates improves balance, increases well-being & helps tone muscles, all so important as we get older.

There are nine principle elements when practising Pilates:-

1. Breathing - This is considered important because it increases the intake of oxygen and the circulation of this oxygenated blood to every part of the body.
2. Concentration - Pilates stresses intense focus on the way that exercises are done. It is often stressed that concentration on the exercise is more important than the exercises themselves.
3. Control – All exercises are done by controlling and working muscles to lift them and counteract gravity.
4. Centring - Much focus is core. That is the group of central muscles in the body which include the abdomen, lower and upper back, hips, buttocks, and inner thigh. All movements in Pilates begin from the centre and move outward to the limbs.
5. Flow – The aim in Pilates practice is for an economy movement which builds strength and stamina.
6. Postural alignment – Using correct posture corrects muscle imbalances and optimizes coordination.
7. Precision - The focus is on doing one precise and perfect movement, rather than many half-hearted ones.
8. Relaxation – It is believed that short spells of relaxation help the working on muscles and improves mental concentration.
9. Stamina - Movement should be efficient so there is less stress when performing the exercises. However, ultimately stamina is built.