About STOTT PILATES®
What is Pilates?
Pilates, pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates, is a mind-body exercise system designed to strengthen the weak and challenge the strong. Pilates (1880- 1967) was a German expatriate who first made his mark in England during WWI when he developed a series of exercises and innovative equipment to help prisoners of war regain strength and mobility. When Joseph Pilates immigrated to New York, the local professional dance community discovered that his conditioning techniques helped prevent injury and improve strength while maintaining long, even muscle tone. This sparked a vast following of the method of exercise.
What is the STOTT PILATES® Method?
STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than two decades refining the STOTT PILATES® method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and most effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES® training and certification programs. It’s used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.
What is the difference between STOTT PILATES® and other methods?
STOTT PILATES® incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES® exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, there is also more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.
Can anyone do Pilates?
No form of exercise is appropriate for everyone, but STOTT PILATES® exercise is appropriate for most people. As with any exercise method, you should always consult with a medical expert before beginning an exercise regime. A modified program may be recommended if you have any physical limitations. Everyone from serious fitness enthusiasts, to rehab patients, elite athletes and prenatal clients will see a difference.
What are the benefits of STOTT PILATES®?
› Longer,leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
› Improves postural problems
› Increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
› Helps prevent injury
› Enhances functional fitness & ease of movement
› Balances strength & flexibility
› Heightens body awareness
› No-impact, easy on the joints
› Can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
› Complements other methods of exercise
› Improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
› Improves balance, coordination & circulation