6 principles of movement

Performing the exercises as precisely as possible and with full body awareness requires a high level of concentration. Quality instead of quantity is the motto.
“Concentrate on the correct movements each time you do an exercise, least you do them improperly and thus loose all vital benefits of their value.” (Joseph Pilates)

Before starting each exercise, the body is aligned neutrally and the center (“source of power”) is activated. The center includes the pelvic floor, the diaphragm, the abdominal muscles and the deep back muscles such as the multifidus muscles. All exercises are carried out from the strong core (“source of strength”). A strong center allows us to move our body easily and in a coordinated manner.

“Quality, not quantity” is the Pilates motto. Body and mind are in harmony in order to consciously carry out the desired movements. Controlled movements allow targeted work. The desired muscles are trained and the rest of the muscles can remain relaxed.
“Ideally, your muscles should obey our will. Reasonably, our will should not be determined by the reflex actions of your muscles. “(Joseph Pilates)

Breathing is an important element of the Pilates method.
The more oxygen is processed in the lungs, the more efficient our muscles become. Through conscious and correct breathing, the cells receive fresh oxygen and can thus excrete accumulated pollutants.
“To breathe correctly you must completely exhale and inhale, always trying to squeeze every atom of impure air from your lungs in much the same manner that you would wring every drop of water from a wet cloth”. (Joseph Pilates)

The exercises should be carried out as precisely as possible. This requires a high level of concentration and control.
“Correctly executed and mastered to the point of subconscious reaction, these exercises will reflect grace and balance in your routine activities.” (Joseph Pilates).

Flowing movements promote coordination, stability and deep sensitivity. In order to perform the exercises fluently, the body must be in balance. Stretching, strength and coordination must be balanced. Only in this way can the individual transitions be carried out harmoniously. For professionals, the most difficult exercises seem very easy to perform.
“Contrology is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace and that will be unmistakably reflected in all you do”. (Joseph Pilates)