Stott Pilates was developed primarily by Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew as a contemporary approach to the traditional method developed by Joseph Pilates. Ever since the first Stott Pilates studio opened in 1988, this Pilates approach quickly became a well respected method partially due to it's inclusion of modern exercise science principles, athletic performance enhancement and spinal rehabilitation. There are many benefits for participants including improved posture, strength, endurance, stability and flexibility along with the development of longer, leaner muscles and injury prevention.
Benefits for Athletes
Stott Pilates is an effective way to add a unique twist to any athlete's training regimen. This method is commonly being used for strength conditioning and rehab of sports-related injuries. Matt Nichol, Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, suggests that Pilates is effective as a part of an athlete's rehab program because it is a non-impact, yet challenging, workout.
Other benefits of pilates training for athletes include improving core strength, balance and flexibility, which can all enhance athletes' performances in their given sport.
Moira Merrithew, Executive Director of Education for Stott Pilates, suggests that because pilates training focuses on maintaining good postural alignment, athletes can begin to perform a movement more efficiently and, therefore, reduce the unnecessary strain on their joints and muscles while performing that movement. She also suggests that the development of muscular balance between opposing muscle groups and around a joint also benefits the athlete and can improve performance.
Benefits for Kids
Stott pilates can provide many benefits to our increasingly sedentary youth. The versatility of Pilates gives youth a convenient and new way to work their bodies. According to Lindsay G. Merrithew, Stott Pilates President and CEO, Pilates--due to its versatility-- is a way to get kids to exercise regardless of their age, fitness level or athletic ability. Pilates is convenient because kids can do this anywhere--home, school, etc.--without having to go to a special Pilates studio.
Another important benefit for kids is improved focus. Due to the specific breathing patterns, concentration and holding patterns necessary to perform Pilates exercises, kids can build important skills, like focus, that benefit them even outside of their Pilates training. Pilates also helps kids build awareness of their bodies and can help with weight management because it helps strengthen and lengthen muscles without adding "bulk."
Benefits of Being an Instructor
Stott Pilates instructors can reap many benefits that reach far beyond monetary rewards. Not only can teaching Pilates enhance an instructor's career, it can be very rewarding to help participants improve their posture, well-being and rehab from injuries. Pilates instructors often personally practice the methods and techniques they are teaching to participants, which means instructors are seeing improved core strength and stability, improved posture, improved body awareness and a decreased risk of injury within their own bodies.
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