STOTT PILATES® incorporates modern exercise principles, and applies proven and accepted practices in biomechanics, rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. After realising the benefits of the concepts of the original Pilates method, and in collaboration with a team of physical therapists/physiotherapists, sports medicine and exercise professionals, the Merrithew's dissected and re-connected this unique form of exercise into a comprehensive, systematic, contemporary approach to the original teachings.
STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints. This involves placing more emphasis on pelvic and scapular stabilisation, and integration of all the parts of the body into one. As well, preparatory exercises and modifications allow the technique to be appropriate for many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to sport-specific training and everyday life.
THE AIM OF PILATES IS TO DEVELOP OPTIMAL NEUROMUSCULAR PERFORMANCE BY FOCUSING ON CORE STABILITY, WHILE SAFELY BALANCING MUSCULAR STRENGTH WITH FLEXIBILITY.
WHETHER PERFORMED ON A MAT OR ON SPECIALISED EQUIPMENT, PILATES THAT INCORPORATES MODERN THEORIES OF EXERCISE SCIENCE AND SPINAL REHABILITATION SHOULD INVOLVE THE FOLLOWING BIOMECHANICAL PRINCIPLES:-
1. BREATHING
2. PELVIC PLACEMENT
3. RIB CAGE PLACEMENT
4. SCAPULAR MOVEMENT AND STABILISATION
5. HEAD AND CERVICAL PLACEMENT
6. LOWER BODY MOBILITY & STABILITY
BY INTRODUCING THESE PRINCIPLES AND REINFORCING THEM OVER TIME, AWARENESS OF HOW THE BODY MOVES IS DEVELOPED. THIS MIND-BODY AWARENESS ENSURES FOCUS ON PRECISION AND CONTROL TO REALIZE THE FULL BENEFITS OF ANY EXERCISE PROGRAM.