what is pilates?

We are often asked, “What is Pilates?”  Originally called ‘Contrology‘, Joseph Pilates (pronounced Pi-lah-tes) developed a system of exercises during the first half of the 20th century which were intended to strengthen the mind and body.  Joseph Pilates believed that mental and physical health are interrelated.

Pilates is one of the most popular exercise systems in the country.  One of the best things about the Pilates method, including the mat work and Pilates apparatus, is that it works so well for a wide range of people.  As all of the exercises can be modified, it is suitable for almost anyone from athletes and dancers to seniors, pregnant ladies and people at various stages of physical rehabilitation.

pilates reformer

The Benefits of Pilates

Pilates is one of the most popular exercise systems in the country.  One of the best things about the Pilates method is that it works so well for a wide range of people.  As all of the exercises can be modified, it is suitable for almost anyone from athletes and dancers to seniors, pregnant ladies and people at various stages of physical rehabilitation.

Benefits of regular Pilates exercise include stronger, longer and leaner muscles, decreased aches and pains and a feeling of wellbeing.

Core strength is the foundation of Pilates exercise.  The core muscles are not just the deep, internal muscles of the abdomen and back.  Instead they literally run from head to toe with abdomen and back being our ‘powerhouse’.   When the core muscles are strong and doing their job they support the spine and movement allowing the body to move more freely and efficiently.

The Six Pilates Principles

  • Centering
  • Control
  • Flow
  • Breath
  • Precision
  • Concentration

These principles are essential ingredients in a high quality Pilates workout. The Pilates method has always emphasized quality over quantity, and you will find that, unlike many systems of exercise, Pilates exercises do not include a lot of repetitions for each move. Instead, doing each exercise fully, with precision, yields significant results in a shorter time than one would ever imagine.

Additional Pilates Benefits

  • As well as fewer aches and pains, better posture is achieved
  • Increased performance in other sports (horse riding, golf, football, etc)
  • Improved balance and co-ordination
  • Improved mind and body awareness

pilates apparatus

Joseph Pilates developed many pieces of apparatus both large and small! Our fully equipped studio (or torture chamber as many clients refer to it!) will whip you into shape!

reformer

The reformer

Perhaps the most well known piece of apparatus, the reformer offers a challenge for those who need it and support for those who need more help. The springs, carriage and arm and leg straps ensure that you will never be bored with what the reformer has to offer. Here at In the Log Cabin, we use reformers built by Legacy. These are as close to Joe’s original design as possible and allow the exercises to be performed as they were originally intended.

Pilated cadillac and small equipment

The tower or half cadillac

The Cadillac is named after the famous luxury car as it does everything!  The half cadillac is a more compact version and is an extremely versatile piece of equipment.  There are numerous exercises which can be performed on the half cadillac and it is very beneficial for those who are recovering from injury or who are weak and need a little more assistance in the exercises.

Pilates Armchair

the chairs

We are one of the very few studios to have a Pilates Armchair. This sounds like a nice, gentle piece of equipment but don’t be fooled! This superb piece of apparatus is perfect for all of us who have tight shoulders or shoulder dysfunction. We also have a combi chair which is a great workout for core, legs and everything else!

pedi pole

the ped-o-pul

This strange looking piece of apparatus may not look like much with its pole and two springs but like most Pilates equipment, it’s simplicity is it’s genius. The Ped-O-Pul is especially good for working on your standing alignment and for strengthening the shoulder girdle. Not to mention of course, working those core muscles!

ladder barrel

the barrels

In our studio we have a Ladder Barrel and a Spine Corrector. These are both useful in aiding us with spinal extension. In addition they are great at building core strength!

Pilates small equipment

small equipment

We make use of lots of small pieces of equipment including the Magic Circle, Foam Roller, Weights, Parrallel Bars, Foot Corrector and Exercise Bands.

About

St Albans based Pilates studio with the full range of Pilates equipment including reformers, towers and chairs

Visit Us

16 Butterfield Lane

St Albans

AL1 2HJ

Contact us

07729 919586 or (01727) 420747

pilatesinthelogcabin@gmail.com

clare@inthelogcabin.co.uk

Open Hours

M-F: 8am - 8.30pm

Sat: 8am - 2pm

Sun: CLOSED

In the log cabin