Two Systems of Movement:
Pearl Pilates Studio offers two distinct, yet complimentary, systems of exercise - Pilates and Gyrotonic®. Both systems emphasize synchronized movements and breathing patterns performed with rhythm and flow.
Clients may choose to study one system exclusively or learn and obtain the benefits of both. Individual sessions will be dedicated to one system at a time, to foster an appreciation and respect for the unique qualities of each.
The creators of these systems -- Joseph Pilates and Juliu Horvath -- were athletes of mixed disciplines who, at some point in their lives, encountered injuries and pain. They were inspired to develop their specialized systems to heal and restore injured bodies. The systems they developed have been used to achieve a higher level of well-being and fitness in anyone who practices them.
PILATES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
There are over 500 exercises that incorporate six principles: breath, centering, concentration, control, precision, and flow. In the beginning, exercises are broken down into more isolated movements called “fundamentals”. The goal of these smaller exercises is to help create awareness and control in each area of the body. As clients progress, they begin to integrate these fundamentals into more complex exercises.
The focus of Pilates is on quality of movement, rather than quantity so that no muscle group is overworked or neglected and the body is worked as a whole. The remarkable design of the equipment both challenges and supports the body as it learns to move more efficiently, powerfully, and fluidly. Because sessions are almost never exactly the same, the mind and body are continuously challenged.
Gyrotonic® . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The Gyrotonic® Expansion System embraces some of the movement principles found in yoga, dance, gymnastics, swimming and tai chi. The circular, spiraling motions allow the user to increase spinal flexibility, stretch and strengthen muscles, decompress joints and strengthen ligaments and connective tissues throughout the body.
The primary piece
of equipment, the Gyrotonic® Pulley Tower, can be adjusted to meet the needs of people with varying body types and fitness levels. The exercises allow complete freedom of movement without jarring or stressing the joints. As in Pilates, the equipment is designed to challenge and support the body.