Principle 1:
Concentration
In Pilates, the mind and body work together to create a more integrated and powerful experience. The mind brings focus and control to the body's movement. When the body and mind are working in harmony the simplest exercise can have profound results.
Principle 2:
Centering
Pilates focuses on the core as the center of the body's power; all movements are initiated from the core. Core training helps prevent injuries, improves posture, promotes flexibility, and regulates the bowels. The core is comprised of the pelvic floor muscles, the deepest abdominal muscle (transversus abdominis), the deepest back muscles (multifidi), and the psoas muscle
Principle 3:
Control
Control is one of the guiding principles of Pilates. Many other exercise programs focus on doing as many repetitions as possible. Pilates on the other hand is more concerned with quality than quantity. The exercises require each movement to be perfectly controlled. If you are centered and your body and mind are fully in tune with one another, you can control every muscle and every part of your body.
Principle 4:
Precision
Precision is in the same vein as control. Pilates exercises require you to put the body in the correct position for proper alignment and balance. Precision helps you avoid misalignments and poor posturing that can cause injuries.
Principal 5:
Breathing
Joseph Pilates felt breathing was the most fundamental part of the Pilates regimen. Rather than "belly breathing" Pilates utilizes "ribcage breathing". In this breath method the inhalation is directed to the sides and back of the ribcage instead of the belly. The core stays engaged while exercising but still allows for deep breathing. In addition, "ribcage breathing" helps to keep the ribs and thoracic spine mobile and flexible while greatly enhancing back strength.
Principle 6:
Flowing Movement
Unique to Pilates is the focus on dynamic flowing movements. Instead of holding tension in the body this principle guides us to move the energy through the entire body creating a sense of graceful strength. It helps connect mind and body to the entire exercise from beginning to end and through transitions.
In Summary
Through the Pilates Principles we can achieve full awareness of how the body works and how it moves through space. We learn where the imbalances and weaknesses are which gives us the power to create positive change. Pilates offers a holistic approach to exercise which benefits the mind, body and spirit.