Our bodies are designed to move and our spines have evolved with that purpose.

Modern day living means that most of us spend the majority of our time with the spine in a flexed position – with rounded shoulders and lose the curves which make the neutral spine strong. We sit over a computer – we drive – we are exhausted at the end of the day so slump on the sofa..this all adds up to weakness in the postural muscles and imbalances which mean that the spine and the muscles around it are vulnerable to injury through the repeated stresses.  We lose tone in the supporting muscles which surround the core – the powerhouse – between the ribs and the pelvis which act like a corset supporting the spine.

However it is important to remember that the method works by using the powerhouse rather than the superficial muscles, and though one may be able possibly to make the SHAPE of the exercise, unless you have those deep, postural muscles you are not getting the full benefit of Pilates – efficient, controlled, full range of movement from a strong base of support.