Functional Pilates with Regina
Westwood Pilates
By Regina Santos
Photo by Frances Lacuzzi
Fitness with function is ideal; and this is what we find in our beloved Pilates practice. One of the many reasons I love this practice, is that so many of the exercises actually help us efficiently navigate through our world everyday. A favorite excerpt from Joseph Pilates’ book, Return to Life, suggests “With body, mind and spirit functioning perfectly as a coordinated whole.” To me, this means that our intentions and actions match for a harmonious existence.
It is said that Joseph Pilates created the high chair to teach people how to properly step up to board buses. In this sense, many of the Contrology exercises are literally exaggerated versions of what we do on a daily basis. We reach for things stored above our heads, we rotate and bend over to put our socks on, we sit up to get up from bed, etc…So when we’re exercising in the studio, we are in fact, preparing ourselves to optimally function and perform outside of the studio.
When we are fit and are able to go about our day feeling strong, capable and mobile, we are more confident and happier with how we handle everything else that life has for us. We are resilient and also adaptable when the connections between our minds, bodies and spirits are strong.
As I continue to practice, the more it becomes a hugely beneficial part of my life. Pilates harnesses my energy and helps me feel centered and whole. As a teacher, it is my passion to share how powerful this practice is in these ways, and my aim is for all to feel the same for themselves. I hope you enjoy this series and if there’s anything you are looking to figure out how to execute at home, please ask!
Functional Pilates with Regina: Riding a Bike