MASTERING THE MOMENT: six “core” principals of pilates

If there’s one workout that seems tailor-made for type-A personalities, it’s Pilates. The drive for perfection, the pursuit of precision, the obsession with getting every detail exactly right. In a practice where quality trumps quantity every time, Pilates offers an endless opportunity to refine, adjust, and focus on the minutiae of each movement. There’s always something to correct, to fine-tune, and that can be incredibly satisfying for anyone who thrives on structure and control.

But here's the beauty of it - when you're trying to remember to pull your bellybutton to your spine/engage your pelvic floor/elongate your neck/keep your shoulders away from your ears/cradle a ripe tomato under your chin/make space for the blueberry in the small of your back/keep those toes up where you can see them, there’s no room left in your mind for anything else. Forget your laundry list, dinner prep, or election angst. Pilates fills your brain with enough physical cues to push everything else out, forcing you to stay present in the moment, one breath and one movement at a time. 

Joseph Pilates first called his method "Contrology" because it emphasized the importance of controlling the body through the mind. He believed that the mind should guide every action, that no movement was performed haphazardly or without thought. Contrology focused on developing core strength, flexibility, and balance by harnessing mental focus and concentration to control physical motion. This idea of complete mastery over one's body, particularly the core or "powerhouse," was central to his approach, which aimed to achieve a harmonious balance between the body and mind. Pilates is a mind-body connection, a practice rooted in precision, intention, and balance that goes beyond just the physical. What we do on the mat can ripple into how we carry ourselves through life - both literally and figuratively. 

Here are the six “core” principles (groan!) that turn movement into something transformative.

1. Breath: The “Breath of Life”

Breathing in Pilates isn’t an afterthought; it’s the core driver of the movement. Posterior lateral breathing, aka "ribcage breathing," is a technique that emphasizes expanding the ribcage to the sides and back while keeping the abdominal muscles engaged. This allows for deeper breaths without pushing the belly outward, which helps maintain core stability throughout movements. It’s easy to lose track of your breath or forget to connect breath with movement, but that deep, controlled breathing not only fuels the movement but also calms the mind and body.

Tip: Before your next session, take a few minutes to focus on your breathing - letting your rib cage expand on each inhale and contract on the exhale.

2. Concentration: A Mindful Practice

Pilates teaches you to focus on the movement at hand. It’s not about zoning out or rushing through sets; it’s about staying in tune with your body. Creating that connection between mind and body not only improves your practice but seeps into everyday life.

Tip: Turn off distractions and dedicate your full attention to the practice. It's the mental clarity that makes Pilates so grounding.

3. Centering: The Powerhouse

Joseph Pilates called the core the “powerhouse,” and for good reason - engaging your center creates stability.

Tip: Exercises like “The Hundred” or “Plank” are great for reinforcing that sense of balance and control from the center.

4. Control: Mastering Every Move

I remember the first few times I tried Pilates - flailing through exercises with little control. But here’s the thing: control is where the magic happens. Pilates isn’t about how fast or hard you can go; it’s about how deliberate you can be. If you’ve ever caught yourself rushing, slow it down. There’s beauty in the precision.

Tip: Focus on maintaining proper form and don’t be afraid to modify exercises. Sometimes less is more!

5. Precision: The Devil’s in the Details

Ever feel like you’ve nailed a move, only to find out you’ve been doing it wrong the whole time? That’s where precision comes into play. Pilates is all about alignment - hitting the sweet spot in every movement. Working with a knowledgeable instructor (we have a few amazing ones at The Pearl, by the way) can make all the difference when it comes to fine-tuning your practice.

Tip: Ask for form corrections during class. Trust me, you’ll feel the difference.

6. Flow: Movement as Art

When I think of flow in Pilates, I think of those smooth transitions - the way exercises glide from one to the next like a well-choreographed dance. That sense of fluidity is what makes Pilates feel graceful and, dare I say, even a bit magical.

Tip: Practice moving seamlessly between exercises to enhance the flow of your workout.

In Pilates, just like in life, we focus on balance, control, and flow - all while remembering to breathe. Embrace the principles, trust the process, and enjoy the journey. Let’s move into the season with strength and intention.

A movement practice is a way to tune into your body and clear your mind. Whether you’re a type-A personality who thrives on precision and structure, or someone who embraces a more free-flowing and chill approach, Pilates has something to offer everyone. It’s a practice that allows you to find your balance through mindful movement. Each session offers the chance to refine and adjust, while also providing a mental break from the demands of everyday life. Breathe deeply, stay present, and enjoy the balance that Pilates brings to every part of your life. It’s not just about mastering movements; it’s about mastering the art of being here, now, in this moment.