The mission of Flourish Pilates ^TM is to enrich the lives of its clients by training students how to properly practice Pilates, so that they may successfully reap the benefits of regular Pilates practice and thus thrive, prosper, and FLOURISH. Benefits of on-going Pilates practice include: improving posture, balance, lung-capacity, flexibility, and strength.

As we practice Pilates we want to develop an awareness of the guiding principles. There are six recognized principles that include: concentration, control, centering, flowing movement, precision, and breathing. Concentration is recognized as the most important principle because in order to reap the benefits of Pilates practice, we must pay attention and be mindful of what we are doing. By applying the principles to Pilates practice we create a fusion of mind and body. The end result is that standing up tall and breathing deeply become second nature to us. This integration helps students of Pilates become more present in the here and now, and produces more efficient and effective results.

What is Pilates?

The primary goal of Pilates is to develop core strength and enhance functional stability and movement through the entire body, instead of working a series of independent muscle groups and parts. Pilates is similar to yoga in the sense participants stretch and strengthen muscles at the same time. Pilates is different from yoga in that students gain strength from continually moving, rather than holding a pose. Pilates also differs from yoga in that Pilates focuses more on achieving core strength and maintaining neutral spine.

How often should I practice Pilates?

Joseph Pilates suggested practicing at least 3 times a week to see results. Combining Pilates Mat with Pilates Reformer sessions each week is the best way to see results because they compliment one another and work different muscle groups.

Joseph Pilates

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates, born in 1880 in Germany. In 1920 he introduced his method called, Contrology to the United States and opened up a studio in New York. After his death from a fire in 1968, his exercise method grew in popularity. His method has been modified by contemporary leaders in the fitness industry and is now called, Pilates.

STOTT PILATES ®

STOTT PILATES ®(what Clare practices) is a contemporary approach to Pilates and incorporates modern theories of anatomy and physiology. Moreover, it focuses on neutral spine and is recognized for its therapeutic benefits to aid in improving posture, in addition to the traditional benefits of Pilates practice such as strengthening the abdominal muscles and easing back pain. STOTT PILATES ®is one of the most well respected forms of Pilates practices in the world today.

What are the benefits of regular Pilates practice?

There are many benefits associated with regular Pilates practice. Pilates students gain "core strength" by working the back and abdominals simultaneously. Unlike traditional abdominal exercises such as sit-ups where students work and isolate the rectus abdominus, Pilates engages all of the abdominal and lower back muscles including the transverse abdominus. In order to gain core strength, one must work the transverse. Pilates can also assist with improving flexibility, posture, coordination, balance, and lung capacity.

Directions to Flourish Pilates ^TM from:
Lake Oswego | Wilsonville | Tualatin/SW Portland | Oregon City

STOTT PILATES ® Registered Trademark of Merrithew Corporation, used under license.