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Pilates instructor clarifies method's benefits and dispels myths
🇦🇷 Argentina /Culture & Society

Pilates instructor clarifies method's benefits and dispels myths

From La Nación · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • Pilates instructor Melani Giommetti explains the concept of myofascial chains, emphasizing a holistic approach to the body in the exercise method.
  • Giommetti clarifies common misconceptions about Pilates, stating it is a rigorous practice suitable for all genders and ages, not just women or a passive workout.
  • The article highlights the accessibility of Pilates, noting comfortable attire and affordable class prices, while briefly touching on Joseph Pilates's life and the method's origins.

Joseph Pilates, the creator of the renowned training method, famously stated, “We are architects of our lives.” He further emphasized, “Happiness is subordinate to physical well-being above the social or economic level.” This philosophy underpins the practice of Pilates, which continues to gain adherents worldwide.

We are architects of our lives.

— Joseph PilatesA quote from the creator of the Pilates method, emphasizing personal agency.

Melani Giommetti, an instructor at the Toulouse training center in Buenos Aires's Palermo neighborhood, elaborated on the practice, particularly focusing on myofascial chains. "Here in our institute, we have our own research and promote the practice of Pilates through myofascial chains," Giommetti explained. "This consists of viewing the body holistically, not as isolated muscle groups."

Happiness is subordinate to physical well-being above the social or economic level.

— Joseph PilatesAnother quote from Joseph Pilates, linking happiness to physical health.

Giommetti also addressed common myths surrounding Pilates. Contrary to the belief that exercising on equipment like the reformer is not strenuous, she asserted, "It is not true that, by working on a bed, one does not work hard. In Pilates, you work a lot using weights and our own body weight." She also dispelled the notion that Pilates is exclusively for women, noting, "More and more men are coming and practicing, because Pilates enhances many other particular disciplines that they themselves perform."

Here in our institute, we have our own research and promote the practice of Pilates through myofascial chains. This consists of viewing the body holistically, not as isolated muscle groups.

— Melani GiommettiThe Pilates instructor explains the concept of myofascial chains and a holistic approach to the body.

The instructor highlighted the practicality of the discipline, advising participants to wear comfortable clothing and practice barefoot. She also addressed the cost, stating, "Practicing Pilates is not expensive: four classes today cost around 80,000 pesos, and it is worth it." Joseph Pilates, a German-born trainer from the late 19th century, developed his method by integrating gymnastics, boxing, and yoga, focusing on controlled movement, breath, and posture. His work with injured soldiers during World War I led to the development of apparatus still used today.

It is not true that, by working on a bed, one does not work hard. In Pilates, you work a lot using weights and our own body weight.

— Melani GiommettiGiommetti debunks a myth about the intensity of Pilates exercises.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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