LOVJOY PILATES

Pilates is a form of exercise developed by a man named Joseph Pilates. He named the method Contrology; A practice focused on developing the mind-body connection. It is a mindful movement system utilizing specialized machines to provide feedback, support and challenge to the body as needed. It’s purpose is to develop an understanding of the body and how it works most efficiently. Pilates purpose is to strengthen all movements by connecting to a powerful core.

It is not based on the movement but on a specific desired muscular engagement, relaxation and/or release. Movement isn’t for movement’s sake but to create a specific outcome. So, we judge the movement as positive or negative based on somatic experience (how it feels… what is working and what isn’t). Pilates also lengthens muscles, rather than shortens them, to create strength. This enables more fluid movement and much more support for joints which is why it is so beneficial for rehabilitating and preventing injury. It utilizes all ranges of motion available in the body so that what was once awkward or disconnected becomes available and strong!

Pilates can challenge the most athletic person and care for the most injured. Its inception was, in fact, a form of physical therapy. The machines originated from hospital beds with springs attached…to rehabilitate the injured and ill. It then became the famous ‘go-to’ form of fitness for New York dancers. It has now become an integral part of every serious athlete’s training and is a ‘go-to’ prescription for people after injury, surgery etc.

Pilates will help you understand your body better. Pilates develops core strength in a way that absolutely nothing else does due to that deepened understanding of the body and specific repertoire designed to encourage all movements from the center. It is fantastic for pain and stress relief, as well as the satisfaction of a challenging, mindful, functional, varied and fun workout!

Our clientele is literally from eight years old to in their 90s. People come in on crutches, as well as right before or after their pro football practice. There is almost no contraindication for Pilates when taught in a Private session by a knowledgeable instructor.

Unlike most exercises, you could do Pilates every day and not feel too sore to do it the next day. If it is your only or primary form of exercise, we recommend three times a week or more. We have many dedicated people who come in five days a week. But also one or two times a week as a supplemental, cross-training benefit to the body is fantastic! You begin to feel a difference in the body after one or two sessions…after 10 sessions, you will begin to see it. Talk to anyone with dedicated practice…their posture, longevity, performance, lean muscle tone, and overall well-being would not be close to what it is without it.

Pilates is there for you to facilitate all the other things you love. It aids in flexibility and corrects imbalances that come from almost any other form of exercise. It helps to connect a flexible Yogi or Dancer in order to not strain the joints. It helps to open the Crossfitter, football player, triathlete, or even those who are tight from walking regularly. It helps to create higher performance and mitigate the negative side effects of all other forms of movement. And is also a fantastic primary form of exercise for those who are passionate about Pilates!

We believe that all Pilates philosophies have their value. Alexandra has trained in both classical and contemporary Pilates, which allows her to create personalized movements to improve YOUR body’s functions. She is constantly pursuing further training in other areas such as the pelvic floor, the lymphatic system, and other equipment such as the reformer, barrel ladder, and tower. She is ready to take on in-depth work such as somatics and anything else that might satisfy the most demanding clients.