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In my classes I work on these principles and fundamentals that I believe to be important basic knowledge when practicing Pilates
Vivianne Jonsson-Valenzia trained as a contemporary dancer.
Vivianne’s interest in Pilates started while she was a student at Laban Centre. She was diagnosed with a spinal injury related to an injury as a Professional Runner for the Swedish junior-team 1995.
After one year of rehabilitation work, she started studying Pilates at the Scott Studio to become a Pilates Foundation Teacher.
While helping her Father through cancer she was impressed how the principles of Pilates can help the circulation, respiratory function as well as helping with body alignment and strength. Her class is focused on strength and everyday awareness to gain a strong core and prevent falling back in to old bad habits.
Fundamental Principles of Pilates
- Concentration/Focus - That all-important mind-body connection. Conscious control of movement enhances body awareness.
- Control/Precision - It's not about intensity or multiple "reps," it's more about proper form for safe, effective results.
- Centering/Strength - A mental focus within the body calms the spirit. A particular focus on the torso (abs, pelvic girdle, lower back, gluts), as develops a strong core and enables the rest of the body to function efficiently. All action initiates from the trunk and flows outwards to the extremities.
- Stabilizing, posture, neutral spine - Before you move you have to be still. Makes for a safe starting place for mobility.
- Breathing - Deep, coordinated, conscious diaphragmatic patterns of inhales and exhales initiate movement, help activate deep muscles and keep you focused.
- Alignment (placement) - Correct alignment is key to good posture. You'll be aware of the position of your head and neck on the spine and pelvis, right down through the legs and toes.
- Flow - Smooth, continuous motion rather than jarring repetitions. Pilates has a grace and elegance to it.
- Integration - Several different muscle groups are engaged simultaneously to control and support movement. All principles come together, making for a holistic mind-body workout.
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