Pilates is a well designed system of mind-body exercise using both apparatus and mat work.
Pilates works to achieve a balance of strength and flexibility, while relating movement to the core. Particular attention is placed on the fundamental principals of centering, concentration (moving with awareness), control, precision, breath and flow. Proper alignment and integrated movement is valued as the ideal. The “powerhouse”, also know in other traditions as the dantien or the tanden, is where the energy for the movement is derived and initiated. When one connects to this physical center of gravity it can be quite powerful, translating into daily life as a new found effortless strength.