Pilates in Spain
A healthier lifestyle is a major motivator for people looking torelocate to Spain. We envisage ourselves eating fresh fruit andvegetables, living in a climate which enables an activelifestyle. However, the reality is if we are not careful ourwalk along the beach has been replaced by a sit down on thebeach and our old chocolate addiction has been substituted withchurros and Spanish cakes. Before long we are the stiff, old,slouchy couch potatoes that we thought we had left behind in ourhome countries. It is at this point that you need to think aboutdoing some form of exercise.
What is Pilates?
One of the most increasingly popular forms of exercise at themoment is Pilates. Pilates is a series of slow controlledmovements. It is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.During a Pilates class you will be encouraged to exercise atyour own pace and within the limits of any restricted mobility,arthritic joints, back problems as the movements can be modifiedaccordingly. On the other hand, those fitter or younger membersof a class will be able to do the exercise at a higherintensity. There is always something for everyone.
Origins of Pilates?
The Pilates method was developed by Joseph Pilates in the1920s.As a child he suffered ill health and to become stronger, hetook up bodybuilding, was a gymnast and a circus performer. Hewas German but living in Britain and during the First World War,because of his nationality, he was made a prisoner of war.During this time he became a nurse, rehabilitating his fellowprisoners of war, using a method, which was to become knownworldwide, as “Pilates”. There was a flu epidemic which killedmany, but none of those whom Joseph Pilates trained died andthis was noted. After the war he moved to New York where he setup his first studio, which was frequented by dancers and actors.Since then, the technique has progressed and become one of themost popular exercise techniques in the world.
Where can I find an instructor for Pilates in Spain?
In the UK it is very straightforward, you go to your local gymand enroll on a class. However, as an expat in Spain it issometimes difficult to know what is on offer. Usually thegymnasiums offer mat work classes, or there are specialistPilates studios which are mainly machine based. Most classeswill be advertised using the usual methods, the internet,newspapers, magazines or leaflets. If you keep your eyes openyou will be bound to find somewhere.
You must check that your instructor is fully qualified. Dont beshy ask to see their qualifications, I am always delighted toshow mine when I am asked and so will any other qualifiedinstructors. After all, we work hard to gain and retain thesequalifications so we are very proud of them! Before teachingPilates in Marbella, I worked for the large leisure groups suchas David Lloyd, Virgin Active and Moat House Hotels, allproviding excellent experience. I have taught both very largeand very small classes, with people of different fitness levelsand ages in the same class. In addition to this, I have taughtsome clients on a “one to one” basis who have had very severeinjuries and back problems. In all these cases I have alwaysspoken to their physiotherapist or medical adviser beforehand,to obtain
information as to what movements are beneficial ordetrimental to the client. I have also had the pleasure ofseeing a physiotherapist improve her own posture dramatically,after a series “one to one” sessions with me. I always welcomeworking with a fellow professional as both parties learn fromeach other.
What will Pilates do for you?
Pilates classes will improve your posture and provide you withtips on how to apply the technique to your day-to-day life whenstanding, sitting, walking and driving. Your flexibility willimprove and likewise the mobility of the joints and spine. Itwill increase muscle strength and hence increases bone density,which in turn, helps to prevent osteoporosis. The added bonus istoning of the body and flatter tummies! The one thing it willnot do is help you to lose weight. To do this you need toundertake some form of cardiovascular exercise, such as briskwalking, fast swimming, aqua aerobics, cycling, running etc.
Where injuries or joint problems are severe, it may be better toattend a “one to one” session, the exercises will bespecifically adapted and chosen, considering you as anindividual and how best to help you. The Chartered Society ofPhysiotherapists in Great Britain has recognised the importanceof the role of Pilates techniques in alleviating some backproblems, joint problems and for post surgery rehabilitation. Asan instructor, I have often worked alongside a physiotherapistto compliment their work and have seen some excellent resultsfor the patient.
Mat work versus Machines?
There are two ways to practice Pilates, either floor basedexercises, or Pilates machines such as The Reformer, TheCadillac and Wunda Chair. I am often asked which is best, ormore often, I hear people say, “Machines are best as you canwork harder”. This is not true, both methods can be equally aschallenging, Joseph Pilates used both! Your choice will oftendepend on availability in your area and what you want to pay.
What does Pilates cost in Spain?
For a mat work class, most instructors will charge between 10and 15 euros per class. For a machine based class this isusually more expensive than a mat work class and will be offeredeither as a group or “one to one” class. If you needphysiotherapy treatment, it is likely that you would berecommended to take a “one to one” Pilates session, whichaverages 50 euros per hour, sometimes a discount is offered foran advance booking of say 5 or 10 sessions.
So where do you go from here?
My advice to everyone is, remember that your body is designed tomove. Your joints and spine need regular movement. Withoutmovement things start going wrong and hurting! Pilates willteach you skills to use in your day to day life, you will bestronger, more mobile and flexible, your body will perform yourday to day tasks more efficiently and you will feel better.Remember, “prevention is better than cure”, but if you alreadyneed a bit of help, then maybe Pilates classes can help you.
About the author:
Clare Brannan is a qualified Pilates instructor, accredited bythe Pilates Institue. Clare regularly contributes to the Eye onSpain (http://www.eyeonspain.com)
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