Principles of Pilates 4: Control

As you become more aware of and comfortable with a particular movement, control will need to be added to increase the effects of the movement in all other parts of your body.

You must focus on form and control to produce the best benefit.

Control is needed to be precise and to activate the correct muscles. Listen carefully to your body and feel the parts of your body that are activated. If you are new to Pilates, it will take some time. Be patient with yourself as your mind and your body start to develop the new skills required to do Pilates "with ease and economy".

Principle 5: Precision

Principles 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7

Ah-haI You will feel the difference!

n one of my classes, a fellow was there for his 36th lesson when he had an "ah ha!" moment. He focused to incorporate increased control in his movements and experienced increased challenge. The same movement that only a short while ago was done with ease became much more challenging when done with increased control.

Example:

While doing leg circles, many people focus on the movement of their legs. However, the exercise is more beneficial if you also keep a neutral neck position, neutral pelvic position, and soft shoulders while doing leg circles.