Health / Pilates Glossary

Abs: Or abdominals, referring to the muscles in the front of the stomach. They form part of the Powerhouse, which Pilates exercise is intended to strengthen.

Articulate: In exercise jargon, this means to differentiate the spinal column one vertebra at a time.

B.E.A.M.: An acronym denoting the four Pilates Fundamentals that Jillian focuses on in her approach to training in her book and videos. The letters stand for breathe, energize, align, and move. B.E.A. . . . View Full Definition

Barrels: The large and small Barrels used in the Pilates Method enhance breathing, develop both the arms and legs, and work the spine to help correct posture and movement. The barrels can be substitu . . . View Full Definition

Body-Mind Connection: The state of focusing the mind on the body's movements. To some extent Pilates represents a blend of Western and Eastern approaches to fitness: one is dynamic, stressing motion, strength, an . . . View Full Definition

Bootie Camp: A series of exercises focused on toning the butt.

Breathing 100s: If you had gone to Joseph Pilates for a lesson half a century ago, this is the first of the classic mat exercises he would have given you. Breathing 100s works everything: your abs are engag . . . View Full Definition

C Curve: The torso forms a 'C' shape with concavity in front of the body.

Cadillac: Also called 'The Rack' or 'Trapeze Table,' this popular piece of equipment is one of the most effective and versatile of all Pilates apparatus. It comprises a raised, horizontal table top wi . . . View Full Definition

Centering: One of the most important of the six Principles of Pilates, and the main focus of the method, since all work starts from the center (or Powerhouse).

Chair: The apparatus helps you to find and strengthen your Powerhouse. It helps to develop the knees and restore your sense of proper balance.

Chin Tucked: Tucking the chin elongates the muscles in the back of the neck and can provide a good stretch for those who have a 'forward head.' However, avoid the tucked chin position when performing Bre . . . View Full Definition

Contrology: This is name given by Joseph H. Pilates to his series of exercises developed in the early to mid-1900s. It emphasizes the mind’s control over the body.

Core Strength: Your core muscles not only include your abdominals, but also your back, pelvic, and hips. Strong core muscles help keep your back healthy, hold your body upright, and improve your balance.

First-Generation Teacher: Refers to any teacher of Pilates who learned the Method directly under Joseph Pilates. Some of the most notable include Kathy Grant, Carola Trier, Ron Fletcher, Eve Gentry, Romana Kryzanowsk . . . View Full Definition

Floor Exercises: Also called mat class. In these classes, we work on the floor using our own bodies for resistance.

Foot On The Walk: A position where the full weight of the foot is balanced on the forefoot only — the heel is lifted off the floor.

Gyrotonics: Is an exercise system that employs movements found in swimming, yoga, gymnastics, and tai chi. This system is intended to improve flexibility, balance, muscle strength, and overall flexibili . . . View Full Definition

Headlights: CadillacImaginary headlights that shine out from the front of your pelvic bones. Visualizing these headlights will help you to tuck and arch your pelvis until you achieve a neutral pelvis po . . . View Full Definition

Hip Belt: An imaginary belt slung low across your hips, from one pelvic bone to the other. Visualizing tightening this belt will draw the hipbones closer together as you exhale to engage your transver . . . View Full Definition

Hundred: This is found for several exercises, the first of which is the Mat, and is used for warming up and working the Powerhouse and increasing circulation.

Imprinting: The action of isolating each individual vertebra of the spine, using either the breath and/or movement.

Inner Eye: An internal sense of body awareness. Use your inner eye to scan your posture and alignment.

Intercostal Muscles: The muscles that run diagonally between each rib (also known as rib cage abs). Intercostals help to control the expansion and contraction of your rib cage when you breathe.

Level Your Eyes: To focus your eyes horizontally straight ahead of you. Leveling your eyes will help maintain proper neck and head placement, as well as enhance your balance.

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