What is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates. Its original conception occurred while he was in an internment camp during World War I. He combined different aspects of Greek and Roman exercise, martial arts, dance, yoga, meditation, gymnastics, and body building to create his unique form of exercise.
In its most basic form, Pilates requires only a mat and body positions using gravity as the resistance. Pilates can also be done on various equipment, utilizing springs to either resist or assist motions. One of the most popular pieces of equipment is the reformer. A reformer is a sliding platform within a frame that uses springs and pulleys to provide a complete workout.
Pilates strengthens and stretches muscles while also facilitating the use of core muscles. It also focuses on improving breathing and posture. All of these are things we need functioning correctly for a healthy body.
Pilates in Asheville is Different at Flow
How would you like to feel after exercising? Hopefully “invigorated” and “fit” come to mind. Fitness does not need to be painful to be challenging and beneficial.
Flow PT and Pilates is led by physical therapist/Pilates instructor Tanya Tracy who has extensive knowledge of the body and over 13 years of experience in Pilates. Tanya has taught alongside and learned from Pilates instructors with classical and non-classical training. The original Pilates repertoire was innovative, but did not fit every single body and fitness level. With her physical therapy background and experience, she makes certain that the exercises fit the individual.
At Flow PT and Pilates, Pilates is available in private mat or reformer sessions, semi-private mat sessions, or group mat classes. There are currently 2 specialty group classes available: Mommy & Me Postpartum Pilates and Tall & Strong Pilates. Groups coming in the near future: Prenatal Pilates!
“A few well-designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of doing sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion.”
-Joseph Pilates