Rare Form Pilates

6 Pillars of Pilates
1. Concentration

As we like to say at Rare Form, don’t practice mindful work mindlessly. Pilates is a mind-body discipline that requires focus and attention. Every repetition is intentional, and we value quality over quantity.

The true benefits of the work only occur when the mind directs the body. Without concentration, Pilates loses its effectiveness and safety.

2. Control

There’s a reason Joesph Pilates called his method Contrology. Each movement is propelled by strength and awareness rather than momentum. The practice should feel under control at all times, not spiraling and chaotic.

3. Precision

Form is key to the practice of Pilates, after all, we are only ever practicing to gain a higher level of strength and ease in our own body. We achieve this through exactness in placement, alignment, and ex*****on. We perform the exercise precisely or not at all, never prioritizing failure over form.

6 Pillars of Pilates (continued)
4. Centering

Every movement in Pilates originates from the body’s center, often referred to as ‘the core’ but in the Pilates studio known as ‘the Powerhouse’. This includes the abdominals, spinal erectors, lower back, hips, inner thighs and glutes.

We strive for a strong center, which stabilizes the body, supports the spine, and allows the limbs to move freely and efficiently.

5. Flow

There is a continuous, fluid nature to the practice of Pilates, with each exercise transitioning to the next. It is part of the practice to memorize the sequences to allow for these smooth transitions. This should not be mistaken with speed. Every exercise takes the time it needs to be performed properly, with an advanced practice taking minimal breaks between sequences.

6. Breath

We practice conscious, purposeful breathing that supports each exercise. The technique of Pilates breathing is lateral and posterior, expanding the rib cage rather than the belly.

We do not over-queue the breath. While it is the primary focus of certain exercises, it is the background hum of others. There is no need for ‘inhale, exhale, inhale, etc.’ to echo during every moment of class.