Pilates is a mind/body exercise program that was created by Joseph Pilates and used during the first World War.  He taught controlled exercises to rehabilitate veterans and soldiers by strengthening, stretching, and stabilizing key muscles.  He created "The Pilates Principles" to condition the entire body.  They are proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision, breathing, and flowing movement.  The program focuses on the core postural muscles which help keep the body balanced and which are essential to providing support for the spine.  In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of breath and alignment of the spine, and aim to strengthen the deep torso muscles.  Pilates can be done easily in your home with no equipment.

Melissa teaches Mat Pilates at Momentum Pilates Studio Thursdays at from 9-10 a.m.

For more information visit www.Momentumpilatesstudiova.com

• longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
• improves postural problems
• increase core strength, stability, and peripheral mobility
• helps prevent injury
• enhances function fitness, ease of movement
• balances strength and flexibility
• heightens body awareness
• no impact; ease on joints
• can be used to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
• compliments other methods of exercise
• improves athletic performance
• improves balance, coordination, and circulation

All Pilates sessions are the same price as personal training.  See Rates for more information.

"Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. Our interpretation of physical fitness is the attainment and maintenance of a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure."  -Joseph Pilates