For those who are new to Pilates, this is where you want to start! There is a saying in the Pilates world, “If it feels too easy, you are doing it wrong.” Pilates, as a method of movement and exercise, is about the quality of the movement over the quantity of it. We espouse the theory Joseph Pilates built his method on, “Why do a 10 lb effort for a 5 lb movement?” We created our Pilates Principles Course as a way to maximize the quality of learning exercises- on an individual level, preparatory to joining group classes. As every body is unique, so is every learning style and interpretation of instruction. Through 5 Private Principles Sessions, we are able to individualize the Course Curriculum to your mind and body- taking into account postural issues, previous medical or surgical history, and personal learning style. The Course Curriculum includes fundamental exercises conducted on the Mat, Reformer, Vertical Frame/Cadillac, and Stability Chair. You will receive homework after each session that, with practice, will create muscle memory for the exercises that will be taught in the next session. This “building block approach” allows you to build a strong foundation of the Essential Level STOTT PILATES® repertoire. It is the mastery of these fundamentals that provides the biggest benefit of Pilates. When you learn proper technique and neuromuscular firing patterns, movement becomes natural and transfers to all activities in your daily life. This is where you achieve the optimal results. Once that base is built, movements become fluid and coordinated which allow the ability to take on more demanding exercises that include balance, coordination, and intensity. This is what Pilates is all about.