Pilates
The Pilates method is a non-aerobic exercise system based on six basic principles: correct breathing, concentration, body stabilization and control, flow of movement and precision in exercising. It is a method suited to anyone who desires a healthy, athletic and flexible body, regardless of age and gender.
Being a safe and mild exercise method, Pilates is also suitable for pregnant women, children and the elderly. It is also excellent for people with chronic injuries, musculoskeletal disorders and neck pain, as well as for people in the post-operative phase.
The exercises can be adapted to the individual needs of each practitioner.
The Pilates method combines its basic authentic set of exercises, with the use of props such as balls, mini-balls, weights, elastic exercise bands or “therabands”, “magic circles” and ethafoam rollers, to facilitate the exercises or to make them harder, maximizing the participation of the muscle groups used in each exercise.
The body parts to be first exercised are the belly, the waist and the buttocks, called the “power house”, as they are of great importance for the proper support of the body during our daily routine.
Benefits of the Pilates method:
- Increased lung capacity and blood circulation.
- Muscular fitness, body strengthening, striation and firming.
- Improved posture, alignment and flexibility, elasticity of the spine.
- Stamina, balance, harmony, grace, physical and mental welfare.
- Safe rehabilitation of joint and spinal injuries and generally musculoskeletal injuries.
- Freedom from pain.
Marjanna Mavrou
Midwife, Pilates Mat & Equipment Instructor.
Marjanna Mavrou is a midwife and a Pilates Mat & Equipment Instructor. Exercise is an integral part of her life since her childhood. Her profession as a midwife led her to explore methods of reapproaching natural movement, such as the Feldenkrais method, and Pilates as a means of strengthening and neuromuscular integration, aiming to provide relief from musculoskeletal difficulties during the perinatal period, as well as to maintain mobility during pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. Over the years, Pilates won her over, resulting in her expanding her training to cater to a wider population.
She attended AF studies, where she received certification as a PILATES MATWORK & PROPS TRAINER, and continued her studies by completing the BASI Pilates Comprehensive Teacher Training Program. She strongly believes that education never ends and continues to enrich her training. She loves to explore her physical capabilities through the Pilates method as well as other favorite forms of exercise, such as aerial acrobatics and aesthetic training.