What is Body Control Pilates ?

The Body Control Pilates® Method of exercise is an adaptation from the ‘classical’ exercises developed by the late Joseph Pilates over 80 years ago.  Pilates is an exercise method designed to strengthen core postural muscles and develop good body alignment.  As a result of this training, the body will move more efficiently.  With time and practice, strength and flexibility will be improved, stress in the body should be handled more effectively and relaxation and breathing control achieved more easily.

Body Control Pilates differs from some of the other Pilates methods taught in the UK today.  In order for the average person to exercise safely and effectively and so gain the full benefits of Pilates, the original classical exercises have been simplified stage by stage.  Good movement skills are then established and so build the best foundation upon which to progress to the classical, more advanced work. 

Central to the Body Control Pilates Method is 'awareness of your own body' and each exercise is built around its eight basic principles: concentration, relaxation, alignment, breathing, centering, co-ordination, stamina and flowing movements.  By concentrating the mind and initially working with fairly simple (but precise) exercises the strength and control of the postural architectural muscles, known as 'core stability' of the body, can be improved. This control is then challenged through increasingly complex movement sequences as body awareness is heightened.  A true harmony of mind and body!

The Body Control Pilates Association was the first training provider to receive approval against the new national standard governing the teaching of Pilates mat work.  As a member of the organisation each instructor must work to a code of practice that concerns teaching standards, professional ethics & continuing professional development. The Association is more fully described on the Professional page, and on the Association's website  www.bodycontrol.co.uk

Pilates in Chester are either Body Control Pilates Instructors or (in one case) an Australian Physiotherapy Pilates Institute (www.ausphysio.com - APPI) trained Chartered Physiotherapist. Each Instructor works independently and is responsible for all matters relating to their own clients.  All clients are asked to complete an enrolment form, detailing any injuries or health issues. If appropriate it may be suggested that a private 1:1 session is organised prior to starting in a larger class.

® The BCPA Logo is the Registered Trade Mark of the Body Control Pilates Association