Clinical Pilates – Sarah Crisp
Sarah Crisp holds an internationally recognised certification after passing a series of practical and theory exams. Sarah attends continuing professional development (CPD) training each year to retain certification and also undertakes workshops to ensure that classes remain fresh and to introduce new equipment and ideas.
Sarah is also a professional swim teacher and fitness instructor with a passion for triathlon. She is a keen open water swimmer and distance cyclist balancing her own training, racing and teaching with being a mother to her two children.
What is Pilates?
Pilates, pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates, is a mind-body exercise system designed to strengthen the weak and challenge the strong. Pilates (1880-1967) was a German expatriate who first made his mark in England during WW1 when he developed a series of exercises and innovative equipment to help prisoners of war regain strength and mobility. When Joseph Pilates immigrated to New York the local professional dance community discovered that his conditioning techniques helped prevent injury and improve strength whilst maintaining long, even muscle tone. This sparked a vast following of the method of exercise.
Why is Pilates the fastest growing method of exercise?
People are becoming increasingly more interested in fitness modalities that help relieve stress. They’re also much more interested in prevention and taking care of their bodies. They want to stay fit and look good for as long as possible. Pilates is complimentary to many traditional ways of working out. It’s excellent for all ages, fitness levels and goals.
What is the STOTT PILATES Method?
STOTT PILATES is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsey G Merrithew, along with a team physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than two decades refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and most effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs.
STOTT PILATES exercises help both men and women develop optimal strength, flexibility, endurance and posture, without building bulk and stressing joints. The perfect complement to cardiovascular exercise, athletic training or rehabilitation, STOTT PILATES exercises help you tone your body, feel revitalised, and move with ease.
Can anyone do Pilates?
No form of exercise is appropriate for everyone, but STOTT PILATES exercise is appropriate for most people. As with any exercise method, you should always consult with a medical expert before beginning an exercise regime. A modified program may be recommended if you have any physical limitations. Physio led clinical Pilates is available on a 1-2-1 basis.
What is the difference between STOTT PILATES and other Pilates techniques?
STOTT PILATES incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, there is also more emphasis on shoulder stability. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.
How does STOTT PILATES differ from weight training?
• Pilates is three-dimensional i.e. exercises can be performed using all movement planes
• In Pilates exercise, emphasis is placed on rebalancing muscles around the joints
• Pilates corrects over-training and muscle imbalances that lead to injury
• Pilates emphasises balancing strength with flexibility (for injury prevention and more efficient movement)
• SOTT PILATES exercise leads to an improvement in posture and body awareness
• Weight training and STOTT PILATES can be combined in a fitness program.
I have a bad back, will I be able to do Pilates?
Although you should always consult your physician before starting any fitness routine, a Pilates workout is gentle and controlled with no sudden jarring actions. It is more important, however, that you work with a qualified instructor to ensure you are doing the movements properly. At BLUE LOTUS PILATES we will modify the exercises to accommodate your limitations, continually challenge you within your ability and monitor your improvements. With our small class sizes and beginners courses you are guaranteed a work out specific to your needs and will see the results more quickly.
Should Pilates replace my regular workout?
Pilates exercise is a musculo-skeletal conditioning program. It’s ideal in combination with some kind of cardiovascular exercise and a great compliment to your weight training program or athletic training.
Is Pilates like Yoga?
In some respects, Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body methods of movement; both emphasise deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. Pilates flows through a series of movements that are dynamic, systematic and anatomically based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with Pilates is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.