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About Body Control Pilates

Body Control Pilates (BCP) was founded in 1995 with a vision to make the benefits of Pilates accessible to the average person, irrespective of age, income and fitness level. BCP created a unique programme that takes clients progressively towards Joseph Pilate's original work.  The BCP method is an approach to mind and body training, a thoughtful movement method.

 

Key to the Body Control Pilates method is its eight guiding principles:

  • Concentration

  • Relaxation

  • Alignment

  • Breathing

  • Centring

  • Coordination

  • Flowing movements

  • Stamina

 

Concentration

Pilates will help you to develop greater body awareness and control, through concentration and focus on the detail and precision of the exercises performed. Eventually the exercises become automatic, bringing about conscious improvement to the way the body moves in everyday life.

 

Relaxation

Relaxation of the mind and body is an essential part of any Pilates session. As you focus completely on your movements your mind feels relaxed and free from stress.Alignment Correct alignment at the start and throughout movement is essential to bring joints and soft tissue into their natural neutral zones. This allows correct movement patterns and improves the health of the joints.

Breathing

Synchronising your breath to movement helps the efficiency and endurance of your muscles. It also helps both the mind and body to relax, recharge and focus.

 

Centring

Pilates focuses on maintaining support and control of the body as movement takes place. The recruitment of deep core muscles enable control and stable movement of the body. This "centring" enables your body to respond to an appropriate type and level of engagement for your desired movement.

 

Coordination

Each movement involved in a Pilates exercise should be performed purposefully with control. Through focusing on on the quality and detail of each movement that makes up an exercise, coordination, control, mobility, strength and the overall efficiency of the whole body are improved more effectively.

 

Flowing Movements

Pilates movements are controlled, graceful and flowing, lengthening outwards from a strong centre. You learn to articulate your spine and mobilise your joints in order to build longer and leaner muscles that are stronger throughout their entire range.

 

Stamina

Pilates exercises are usually performed for a low number of repetitions as the focus is on quality. When ready, more challenging exercises are added which build muscular endurance and stamina.

 

This page was summarised from pages 7-8 in "The Pilates Bible," by Lynne Robinson, Lisa Bradshaw and Nathan Gardner. This outstanding book is suitable for anyone interested in Pilates and for beginner through advanced Pilates students.

 

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