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B O U T P I L A T E S
What is Pilates?
Created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, and practiced
first as cross-training for elite athletes and dancers, Pilates
has since been developed to suit all fitness backgrounds. It is
most noted for creating a long, lean body, increased flexibility,
and improved postural alignment, however Pilates has many therapeutic
benefits as well. Health practitioners are increasingly recommending
Pilates as a rehabilitative tool due to its attention to detail
and sound physiological principles. Pilates is popular because it
works.
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Pilates focuses on creating a balanced body and mind. In
physical terms this translates into a solid workout that equally emphasises core-strength, flexibility, control, alignment,
posture, balance, and breath
connection. Strengthening the muscles of the spine, abdomen, and
pelvis is a key component. Pilates also addresses any imbalances in the body
that may be causing injury, joint deterioration, chronic pain
or structural weakness.
It is now common knowledge that developing CORE-STRENGTH
is vital for joint stability in the spine and limbs. Other
forms of exercise can create overall bulk which can inhibit
flexibility while never addressing the deepest layers of muscle
tissue. By focusing on the CORE, Pilates creates a strong
yet supple body.
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Pilates can enhance an already physically active lifestyle
and is a safe choice for those who are new to exercise or
have limitations. Pilates is excellent for those who wish
to understand how their body works and how to help it go further.
There are several ways to do Pilates:
Matwork Classes are most common and involve a series of floor exercises taught in a class setting. At Integration we have expanded the matwork program,
which blends elements of yoga, traditional fitness training, and rehabilitative exercise along with the full pilates repertoire on the mat, fitness ball, stability roller, resistance band, weighted balls, and balance discs.
Equipment Classes are a new addition to Integration, the only studio in Edmonton to offer group classes using the specialized Pilates equipment, the Universal Reformer and the Cadillac, which uses springs and pulleys to create a weight resistance environment.
Personalised & Rehabilitative Training, Integration has the full set of Pilates apparatus, allowing for a dynamic and expansive core training experience. Clients can work one on one with our instructors for a more concentrated approach, or personalized and rehabilitative programs can be created to work on during open studio time.
A combination of both mat and equipment workouts is most beneficial.

What Can Pilates Do for Me?
Because it creates a balanced body, Pilates compliments all other
physical activities and can greatly improve overall performance.
Golfers, swimmers, runners, tennis players, dancers, gymnasts, and
many other athletes have all come to Pilates, and have seen improvements
in their own disciplines as well as a decrease in injuries from
their sport.
Regular Pilates workouts create a long and lean musculature, increased
strength and flexibility, and improved postural alignment.
Pilates is also a safe exercise choice for those with injuries
or limitations. It can serve as a major rehabilitation tool.
It releases the stresses inherent to life’s daily activities,
and that are accumulated from repetitive strain, poor posture, and
inefficient body mechanics.
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