What the fuck is Pilates?
BY CAITLIN BURNS
On the first day of every teacher training we have run we ask the trainees this question. We believe there is no wrong answer and we love to see how their answers evolve as the training progresses.
At its core (Pilates pun) we could describe Pilates as a system of 34 exercises created by a dude name Joseph Pilates over a hundred years ago. And, in the Pilates zeitgeist there are many methods and instructors who adhere to this static definition. But, that ain’t us.
Here at Muse, we don’t subscribe to a fixed definition of Pilates. How it feels, how it lands and what kind of benefits you see, are completely unique to you and that is what matters.
Pilates is a way to come home to yourself, to explore the nuances of your body and how it moves. With a strong and consistent practice, you can find a deep and meaningful connection to your body.
We are inspired to teach classes that create mobility to help you find stability and vice versa. We want to get you moving to help you feel grounded and discover strength you didn’t know you had.
Yes, Pilates is core focused.
While many Pilates instructors and practitioners might adhere to a more dogmatic definition of alignment and neutrality, we believe that the definition is fluid and informed by the individual body and shaped by their lived experience. What we focus on is curating classes and private Pilates sessions that allow our clients to explore movement on their terms, with adjustments and suggestions specifically employed to help them feel their best and to gain more mobility for their body.
There is no baseline for movement and no particular way each exercise is supposed to look. Often people will come to us for a stronger core, or better posture. But, we ask- what is better posture? Whose definition of posture are we going by here? We prefer to look at Pilates as a movement based system that helps you move more freely and fluidly; helps you gain mobility and flexibility; helps you feel grounded and strong both on and off the mat. With this definition, we are now not bound by the original 34 exercises, not bound by a specific form or or performance of these exercises or to a fixed way of how to treat each client.
Pilates is everything.
It is an opportunity to find empowerment and engagement. It's the moment when your body surprises you. And, it is a shared community practice that allows you to find family in others. The definition is fluid and adaptable, and deeply personal. One could ask every person leaving a Pilates class, and they would offer a completely unique answer.
The constant is that Pilates will help you feel your absolute best.