Pilates is fantastic for building strength, improving flexibility + enhancing overall well-being. But did you know that a core tenet of Pilates is also about body autonomy?
Body autonomy means taking ownership over your movements + feeling confident in your body's capabilities. The six principles of Pilates underscore this, with breath, concentration, centre, control, precision + flow, all guiding you to listen to your body + to gain mastery over each movement.
Here's why understanding + embracing body autonomy is crucial for your Pilates practice:
Listen to Your Instructor then Listen to Your Body
Pilates isn't about pushing yourself to the point of pain. Our bodies can feel different + require different things day-to-day, so it's important to cultivate a strong connection to + awareness of your body.
Your instructor is there to guide you, offer modifications + to assist you with the safest options to set-up + perform an exercise. Listening to your instructor will inform how you continue with the prescribed exercise + therefore help you determine what will work for you.
Empower yourself with the knowlege that you, not your instructor (or anyone else for that matter), are the ultimate judge of how your body feels during exercises.
And your body + your practice is wholly your responsibility.
Personalised Practice
Your body is unique + your Pilates practice should be too. Your Pilates teacher is there to guide you, but they are also there to encourage you to explore what works best for you. Don't be afraid to ask questions + find variations that suit your needs if what has been offered doesn't quite suit you. By being inquisitive + asking questions (not just to your Pilates teacher but also to yourself), you can deepen your understanding + awareness of your own needs.
Confidence Through Knowledge
Understanding the "why" behind each exercise empowers you to perform it with intention. Your teacher may briefly explain the targeted muscles + how the particular movement you are performing benefits your body but if you want to know more, don't be afraid to ask (for in depth anwers, it's probably best to ask after the class or even book a Private 1:1).
This knowledge translates into a more mindful + effective practice.
Sustainable Results
When you feel in control + understand your body's signals, you're more likely to continue practicing Pilates both in the studio + outside of it . This self-awareness fosters a long-term commitment to your well-being which can extend to other areas of your life.
It's a cliche but...
Pilates is a journey, not a destination.
By understanding + embracing the practice of body autonomy, you become an active participant in your own health + cultivate a deeper connection with your body's potential.
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