What is Pilates?

'Physical fitness is the first requisite of happiness. In order to achieve happiness it is imperative to gain mastery of your body. If at the age of 30 you are stiff and out of shape, you are old. If at 60 you are supple and strong then you are young' Joseph Hubertus Pilates

Stott Pilates can help people with injuries or aches and pains by improving posture and core stability. All of the exercises are designed to help isolate, activate and condition the deep stabilising muscles of the body and restore the natural curves of the spine. This strengthens the body and corrects posture which can be the cause of many back or shoulder problems, injuries or pain.

Stott Pilates aims to optimise musculoskeletal performance, strength, flexibility and endurance without risking injury or building bulk.

With Stott Pilates the emphasis is on movement quality, posture and breathing. This is what makes Stott Pilates a safe challenging and revitalising workout.

Stott Pilates results in a balanced and aligned body that looks fit, feels revitalised and moves with ease.

Kirsty Peacock, MSc Sports Medicine, Chartered Physiotherapist, Limerick City, ( who was previously the Physiotherapist to the Munster Rugby team for 8 years) had the following to say about Pilates in her Physio advice to those preparing to take part in  the 'Great Limerick Run' www.greatlimerickrun.com  "As part of your preparation, try to complete a Pilates class at least once a week. This will help strengthen the small underlying muscles in the musculo-skeletal system. The best analogy is to think of it as building good foundations for a house. You wouldn't build a mansion on wobbly foundations, and if you did the walls would fall down! There are lots of places that offer Pilates classes and it would be easily accessible by most people. Make sure the class is well supervised and not too big.   Marian Conway, (STOTT Certified Pilates Instructor) runs an excellent class in various venues across Limerick City  and County suitable for Beginners to more advanced levels (excellent if you have ever suffered with back pain!)"

Stott Pilates - The Benefits:

• Tones and strengthens abdominals
• Longer, leaner muscles
• Improves posture
• Prevents injury
• Increases circulation
• Relieves tension
• Enhances body awareness
• Balances strength with flexibility
• Heightens concentration
• Enhancesathletic performance
• Boosts self-esteem