Pilates at RITUEL
Dancers have studied and practiced Pilates for several generations as a means of achieving length, strength and flexibility, exemplifying the long and lean form achieved through the Method. Through use of the reformer, cadillac, chair, ball or mat, the Pilates Method enables the body to re-learn balanced strength and release nervous system tension, fully engaging and benefiting both body and mind.
The Pilates Method was developed by Joseph Pilates and includes over 500 exercizes building core strength and body alignment. Its focus on abdominal and dorsal muscles develops core body strength both relieving pain and building strength while also targeting the buttocks and thighs – think of a dancer’s lean form. We have trained practitioners of multiple schools of Pilates including Basi, Peak, Balanced Body, A-Lyne, Stott to mention a few.
The Pilates Method is taught at RITUEL as follows:
Reformer
The most recognized Pilates “machine”, the reformer, enables hundreds of exercizes for the total body – length, strength, flexibility, balance and alignment
Cardio-Reformer (Jump Board)
The Cardio Reformer class is a choreographed routine on the jumpboard, using the principles of plyometrics. Cardio jumping will challenge the core, elevate the heart rate, train balance and coordination. You will burn more calories, strengthen muscles with very low impact on the joints and much bone-building benefit, while having fun!
Open Circuit
Semi collective classes (3 or 4 clients), the Open Studio® allows you to have a complete workout on the equipment (cadillac, reformer, chair, barrel…) and to develop more autonomy. Programs are personalized by our professors and make you evolve according to your needs.
Pilates Ball
The exercise ball is a light, portable, durable, and inexpensive piece of equipment. Unlike most exercise equipment or a mat, the ball is an unstable base of support. Working your gravity-bound body on a mobile ball requires balance, and balancing requires many of the body’s deep, stabilizing muscles. Exercising on the ball has the unusual advantage of being fun as well as challenging.
Pilates Wunda Chair
A foundational form of Pilates exercize the wonder chair looks easy but is as rigorous as its sister classes. The wonder chair is critical in building alignment and structural strength. Springs inside the chair regulate the resistance while one’s own body mass is used for lifting and suspending weight.
Pilates Mat and Floor work
Every exercize that is done on Pilates machines can also be done on the floor. Learning the floor mat work enables one to practice while at home, traveling or when a studio environment is not available. Core strength, flexibility, balance, alignment and length are achieved through Pilates mat and floor work.
Kids Pilates
Pilates for children is a combination of Pilates Mat technique, Feldenkrais and dance. The class is designed to develop a child’s motor coordination in conjunction with their core strength, building confidence and a strong body. Dance choreography is taught to inspire creativity, movement and harmony – with oneself and as a part of a group.