DAN 4501 Pilates Theory: Apparatus I
Pilates is a full body conditioning system designed to develop and improve strength, flexibility, posture, and coordination, developed by Joseph Pilates. The Pilates system includes exercises for every part of the body, application for every kind of activity, and is comprised of over 250 movements that are performed on specialized apparatus as well as exercises done specifically on the mat. Pilates focuses on engaging the mind and body together to create exercises that involve the whole person. Each exercise is performed with attention to the breath, proper form, and efficient movement patterns. This course focuses on the beginning exercises on the following pieces of apparatus: Reformer; Wunda Chair; Spine Corrector and select beginning exercises on the Ladder Barrel and Trapeze Table. In addition to the physical exercises, the course will further elaborate on the theory and philosophy of Pilates in relation to the development of the equipment, the essential movement principles and how each principle is exemplified by the categories of equipment exercises, the anatomical aspects of the beginning level equipment exercises, exercise variations on the equipment for specific anatomical reasons, and kinesthetic observation analysis.
Course Types
Expression, Advanced Studies
Notes
- Students will learn:
• Build upon the theoretical underpinnings of the Pilates method they received in DAN 2020 or DAN 3501
• How to apply five movement principles essential to the Pilates method in the beginning level apparatus exercises: Trunk Integration; Lower Body Training; Upper Body Training; Mobility and Restoration; and Whole Body Movement
• How to safely and effectively execute the beginning level exercises on the Reformer, Wunda Chair, Spine Corrector and select beginning level exercises on the Ladder Barrel and Trapeze Table
• How to safely utilize and properly maintain the apparatus
• Build upon their experiential anatomy knowledge and learn the anatomical considerations of the Pilates apparatus exercises
• How to conduct self-referential qualitative somatic based research and analyze how the Pilates apparatus repertoire is informing their specific sport or movement practice.
• How to compose an individualized Pilates apparatus practice to enhance their physical and body-mind connection goals
• How to apply the nine Balanced Body Pilates principles (Breathing, Concentration, Control, Centering, Precision, Balanced Muscle Development, Rhythm/Flow, Whole Body Movement, Relaxation)