What is Pilates?

Pilates was created in the 1920s by the physical trainer Joseph Pilates (1880-1967) for the purpose of rehabilitation. Some of the first people treated by Pilates were soldiers returning from war and dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine (to strengthen their bodies and heal their aches and pains). Since the 1920s, the basic tenets that Joseph Pilates set down have been preserved, and to this day, even with some modifications, Pilates remains true to its origins.

Pilates classes at Five Starr Pilates & Fitness| Pilates Long Beach, Indoor Cycling

The Pilates Method

The Pilates “method,” as it is now known, is an exercise system focused on improving flexibility, strength, and body awareness, without necessarily building bulk.

The method is a series of controlled movements performed on specially designed spring-resistant exercise apparatus (the Reformer, the Cadillac, the Ladder Barrel, and the Stability Chair) or on the floor (mat work), and the sessions are supervised by specially trained instructors.  Pilates is considered to be resistance exercise.

Two of the key elements of Pilates are core muscle strength and spinal alignment. The core musculature is loosely defined as the spine, abdomen, pelvis, hips, and the muscles that support these structures.

During a Pilates session, whether it’s on the machines or the floor, your instructor will continuously prompt you to concentrate deeply on your core muscles, as well as on your breath, the contraction of your muscles, and the quality (not quantity) of your movements. These are also key elements of Pilates, and your instructor will emphasize them at every session. The objective of Pilates training is a coordination of mind, body, and spirit, something Joseph Pilates called “contrology.”

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Five Starr Pilates & Fitness Mission

Five Starr Pilates & Fitness delivers an exceptional fitness experience for clients at all stages of their fitness journey.

Through stellar instruction, state-of-the-art equipment and a supportive family environment our clients are equipped with the tools necessary to propel them toward reaching their goals while developing a mind body connection.

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Whether you want to continue your Pilates training, experience the power of indoor cycling, shed pounds or just get moving again we encourage you to experience fitness with the Five Starr family. Through our teachings our clients gain flexibility, lean muscle, balance, coordination, agility and most of all confidence on their fitness journey. We invite you to participate in the Five Starr difference and become a member of our Five Starr family! View our complete list of classes and new client special.

Five Starr Pilates & Fitness delivers an exceptional fitness experience for clients at all stages of their fitness journey. Through stellar instruction, state-of-the-art equipment and a supportive family environment our clients are equipped with the tools necessary to propel them toward reaching their goals while developing a mind body connection.

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