Our Story
Established in 1999, The Pilates Studio is a fully equipped Pilates fitness centre, set in peaceful and serene surroundings in Harare, Zimbabwe. There are two studios, one equipped with the latest state of the art equipment, including V2 Max Reformers and a Cadillac; and the other is for matwork, barre, barrels and stability balls.
Studio 1
The studio is fully equipped with six state of the art V2 Max Reformers with spring attachments, boxes, poles, platform extenders, mat converters and jumpboards. There are mirrors surrounding the studio. There is also a Cadillac in this studio.
Studio 2
The studio has a large carpeted area where mats are laid for the matwork. Barres, stability balls, arc barrels, a Ladder barrel, two spine correctors and two Stability chairs complete the basic equipment. A variety of rollers, stability cushions, large stability balls, myofascial release balls, soft balls, medicine balls, weighted balls, rotational discs, cushions, blocks, BOSU, stretch bands and circles complete the apparatus.
Instructors
We have the following teachers taking group classes in the studio:
- Leanne
Philip
- Zane
Helberg
- Kirsty
Stidolph
- Mel
Barnes
- Mandy
Waddell
- Stacy
Gillam
Zane working with one of our members
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a series of exercises designed to improve flexibility and strength, particularly in the core and the back, through a variety of toning, stretching and balancing movements. It was developed by Joseph Pilates.
History
Joseph Hubertus Pilates was born in 1880 near Dusseldorf in Germany. From a frail child he worked relentlessly at body building and conditioning until by the age of 14 he began posing for anatomical drawings, going on to become a sportsman and gymnast. He instructed fellow internees during the First World War.
He worked as a nurse and experimented with springs attached to hospital beds so that patients could work at toning their muscles. He created the Reformer amongst other popular pieces of equipment still in use today. His focus was on breathing and slow controlled rhythmic movements. He died in 1967.
Benefits
Pilates helps improve strength, range of motion and core control, which together help to reduce risk of injury. It reduces stress, relieves tension, and boosts energy, as well as the following:
- Focuses on core strength and stability and creates a stronger more flexible spine.
- Offers relief from stress and back pains.
- Elongates the muscles without creating bulk.
- Promotes recovery from injury.
- Increases joint motion.
- Improves circulation.
- Heightens neuromuscular coordination.
- Helps to correct postural defects.
- Enhances mobility, agility and stamina.
- Improves the appearance of the body, increasing overall self-esteem.
Who can use the Pilates method?
Pilates is for everyone – the young, the old, the sedentary, the athletic, and those who have challenging disabilities or injuries and who may require rehabilitation pre and post surgery.
It is recommended by chiropractors, physiotherapists and doctors. This method is world renowned and taught by fitness and health professionals worldwide. Pilates is recommended for those with back problems and other issues, because core strength is the essence of spinal support. Pilates’ balanced approach ensures that no muscle group is overworked and as a result the body develops as an efficient, holistic system.
Pilates combines Eastern and Western well-being approaches and encourages the mind and body to work in synergy.