There are six principles of Pilates to achieve its utmost benefits. The six principles are control, concentration, center, flow, precision and breathing.
Control
Staying in control every time is important in order to avoid any injuries due to wrong exercise routine or wrong speed. It is actually the most fundamental principle that is why Joseph Pilates called this exercise contrology. Slow and controlled movements are ideal to improve coordination. Full benefits are achieved through this. Some routines require going against gravity and controlling the muscles to execute this is necessary.
Concentration
Concentration is important in Pilates all the time. It is applied to the entire body. Precision is important in doing the routines to achieve the benefits and precision needs concentration. Concentration is the primary necessity to perfect each exercise step.
Center
Center is the focal point of the Pilates Exercise. Center is comprised of the abdomen, lower and upper back, buttocks and inner thighs. The energy flow starts from the center and on to the outer parts like the limbs.
Flow
Flow or also referred to as the efficiency in movement, assures graceful transitions of movement. The flow starts from the core or center then transferred to the outer parts which are the limbs. It keeps the movements constant and accurate with no unnecessary actions.
Precision
Precision and concentration goes hand in hand in doing the routines to make it feel more natural. It is more important that the movements are precise rather than numerous. That is why speed is not much important in Pilates as doing things correctly.
Breathing
Joseph Pilates noticed the value of increasing the intake of oxygen. He notes that this as a cleansing method that invigorates the system. He encourages people who are practicing pilates to fully inhale and exhale with much effort while doing the exercise routines. Breathing correctly is very essential in Pilates Exercise. Breathing also relaxes and removes tension in the muscle. This will in the end increase body control.
Like any other thing, practice makes perfect. It is best to make a thorough study of Pilates for one to achieve its utmost benefits and to know what they are in for. It is not important to do many routine poses. What is important isto make precise ones according to personal abilities.