Get fit the Pilates way

The Pilates Studio in Dubai organises open day to create awareness about the mind-body conditioning system


In ten sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a whole new body." What exactly did Joseph Hubertus Pilates mean when he made this statement? Well it will all be clear on Saturday.

The Pilates Studio is hosting an open day where anyone can walk in to have a better understanding of this mind and body conditioning system.

"Despite the popularity Pilates has received in recent years, most people are still unclear on what it actually entails," said Rhona Bennett, studio manager, The Pilates Studio.

"Our open day is designed for people to come in, have a look around the studio, try out the equipment and have a chat with the instructors about any queries they might have. We hope to 'de-mystify' this form of exercise."

Alongwith the chance to come and find out more, The Pilates Studio will also be offering free trial classes, a prize draw, demonstrations and complimentary refreshments.

Pilates was first developed by Joseph Pilates over 80 years ago. "It is neuromuscular and different from all other forms of exercise and conditioning. Conventional 'gym type' workouts tend to build short, bulky muscles that are most prone to injury, whereas Pilates elongates and strengthens, developing muscle elasticity and joint mobility through their full range of motion, giving one a body with balanced strength and flexibility which is less likely to be injured or suffer from back pain or related issues," said Bennett.

The Pilates Studio, Dubai, is affiliated to referral studios in the US, Canada and Australia and also is a professional member of the 'BackCare Association' UK. "Our instructors are specifically licensed and fully certified which requires over 5,000 hours of teaching experience in a specialised Pilates environment. We follow the complete Pilates method of reconditioning and all the related concepts," she said.

Pilates programmes are for people of all ages and fitness levels. "We particularly advise individual programmes for those requiring rehabilitation or for those with chronic problems needing specific exercises," summed up Bennet.

About Pilates:
• Pilates develops a strong 'centre' to the body. The centre or core consists of the deep abdominal muscles, which protect and support the spine.

• Pelvic and shoulder girdle stabilisation brings further protection and stability.

• Pilates conditions the whole body, no muscle group is over-trained or under-trained, giving you a slim, toned physique that helps you enjoy daily activities and sports with greater ease and less chance of injury or chronic back pain.

• One actually can re-train their body to move in a safer, more efficient way.

Open day
• Date: September 20

• Timings: noon to 8pm.

• Venue: The Pilates Studio, RAKBank building (between Thunderbowl and Mazaya Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai)

• Procedure for participants: The trial classes will be on a first come first served basis subject to availability of spaces, but anyone can watch.

• Attire: Comfortable clothes, no shoes are required during the session.