Pilates Training Elements
PILATES MAT WORK
PILATES Mat Work is the starting point before progressing to the Cadillac and Reformer equipment. Clients who travel frequently also find Mat Work to be a great option when they are away from the gym.
One of the goals with Mat Work is to develop core strength, also referred to in the fitness industry as torso stabilization. It is very important to develop torso/spinal stability prior to adding resistance to any exercise, especially on the PILATES Cadillac and Reformer.
PILATES CADILLAC
The first Cadillac was designed by Mr. Pilates for hospital patients who were confined to their beds. He attached springs with handles to the bed frames, creating resistance exercises while accommodating his clients’ limitations. Over the years, the Cadillac was further developed by adding many more exercises and incorporating new accessories, including a trapeze. Many of the Mat Work exercises can be performed on the Cadillac, with the added challenge of the resistive spring mechanisms.
PILATES REFORMER
Unlike the Cadillac, which is a fixed platform, the Reformer is designed as a sliding platform, from which you perform various movements. This moving platform creates a different set of physical challenges by blending movements from Mat Work and the Cadillac.
PILATES EXPERIENCE
Pilates is frequently called the fountain of youth because it works on your neuromusculosceletal system to reestablish your core strength, flexibility and endurance.
The benefits of Pilates are physical longevity, increased levels of other physical activity and better quality of life.
You will feel the difference immediately and see the difference shortly thereafter.
Bio Fitness Center Pilates Staff
- Jeff Elsass is an internationally renowned Pilates master, featured in Alycea Ungaro’s book "Pilates: Body in Motion” published in 6 languages. He can be seen on the Power Pilates DVDs for mat exercise, as well as various training videos and instructional tapes.Jeff has been involved with physical training for 20 years. His experience includes Army P.T., Aerobics, dance companies, Broadway shows, Ashtanga Yoga and Pilates.He has studied and trained with Sichel Chiropractic; taught at Equinox, Power Pilates, The Manhattan Athletic Club and The Center for Personal Healing.Jeff has brought his experience and knowledge together to create a Pilates workout that will awaken you to greater awareness and potential in your mind, body and spirit connection.
- Elizabeth Hamilton has further broadened her scope of practice, as a licensed massage therapist and a personal trainer with multiple certifications, to include Pilates.Elizabeth has completed her certification with the Kane School of Core Integration, a focused program in the classic Pilates repertoire as created by Joseph Pilates.
- Aquilino Heather discovered Pilates while studying dance.He has studied Pilates,Gyrotonics Expansion System and anatomy from an array of gifted teacher's around New York and California over the past 12yrs. As one who loves movement she has found that Pilates is the most effective exercise that is gentle on the joints,concentrates on alignment and posture and strengthens and tone's all at the same time. Each session with Heather is tailored to each individual.
Additional information and rates for Jeff, Elizabeth and other Bio Fitness Center’s Pilates instructors available upon request.