What is Classical Pilates?
Classical Pilates is the original Pilates. The creator, Joseph Pilates created a sequence of exercises designed to take the body through a full range of movement. The sequence builds intelligently with foundational exercises at the beginning and more complex exercises as you gain strength and control. The transition between one exercise and the next become exercises in themselves as the work is meant to flow and become fluid and efficient.
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The session normally starts with the reformer and/or mat followed by 2 other pieces of equipment chosen by the instructor according to the specific requirement of that persons body. The program is tailored to beginners to advanced and is modified for persons with injury.
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The classically trained instructor will have undergone a rigorous 600+ hours of training.
They undertake hours of training per week through one of the schools established by a "Pilates Elder". These elders are Romana Kryzanowska, Jay Grimes, Kathy Grant and Ron Fletcher and they were handpicked by Joseph to continue his work. These elders are considered 1st generation and an authentic Pilates instructor is classified by generation and according to which lineage (elder) they studied through.
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Cristina has undergone this intense program through the Romana Kryzanowska lineage, studying with 2nd generation master trainer Cynthia Lochard, making Cristina a 3rd generation Romana instructor. She has taught in Spain as well as in varies Romana studios here in Sydney.
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She is excited to open her very own Romana studio in both Lugarno and Campbelltown to showcase the true depth of the Pilates method.
Benefits of Pilates
Core strength - learn to correctly engage the muscles of the core including the muscles of the Pelvic floor
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Injury management - maintain your strength and flexibility while modifying exercises for injuries
Flexibility - create flexibility in the body and alleviate sore joints
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Correction of breathing caused by anxiety - learn to breath correctly through targeted breathing exercises.
Technique focused - movement correction to prevent injury
Pilates works by strengthening and stretching the body simultaneously.
Each exercise has an element of stretch to increase flexibility and strength thereby creating a longer and stronger muscle.
It trains the deep abdominal muscles which include the pelvic floor, to both contract and release. These core muscles work like a brace to lift and support the organs therefore protecting and stabilizing the back.
Pilates strengthens the smaller muscle groups that quite often are not working effectively. While heavy weights will focus on large muscle groups, Pilates also includes the stabilising muscles around a joint which helps prevent injuries by protecting wear and tear at the joint.
Classical Pilates is a rigorous workout that is adapted to all ages and abilities. It leaves the body feeling invigorated without fatigue. Correct breathing is incorporated into the workout to maximise lung capacity and to allow ease of movement.
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