About… 

Pilates

The body conditioning technique known as Pilates was invented around 100 years ago by Joseph Pilates. The method incorporates strength, mobility and stretching with a particular emphasis on creating core stability by engaging the deep abdominal muscles. Learning to use the breath and to focus the mind in order to accomplish each precise movement were also key features of the technique and continue to be today.

From its inception, Pilates has incorporated both exercises on the mat and on various resistance machines such as the reformer and the wunda chair. These machines use springs to adjust the resistance making exercises either harder or easier.

APPI founders Glenn and Elisa Withers are physiotherapists who took the original exercises and analysed and revised them. From that research work they developed a form of pilates that is more adaptable and appropriate for a vast range of abilities, posture types, ages and personal aims. The method is safe and effective for people who are recovering or rehabilitating after injury or postnatally, as well as for fit and strong athletes and sports enthusiasts looking to improve.

Contento Pilates offers both Matwork Pilates and Reformer Pilates Group Classes and 1:1s. Both follow the same principles with the same benefits. But with Reformer Pilates we are using the springs of the machine to add resistance. This can add in quite a bit of further variety to the pilates repertoire, plus some extra fun!