Pilates for Dancers and Performing Artists.

Because dancers and performing artist rely heavily on their bodies as a means of making a living, it is extremely important to build a solid awareness of proper alignment for efficient, and healthy movement. Extreme and repetitive actions can create imbalances in the body. In my practice, I aim to find these imbalances to correct over worked muscles and strengthen under used muscles in order to build more efficient movement, balance, and posture. The overarching goal is to build performance longevity which is wildly important for performing artists. It is my aim as a Pilates instructor to help professionals and hobbyists alike achieve this longevity through dedicated practice of alignment.

When Joseph Pilates brought his system of movement, Contrology, to New York City after World War I, his practice became widely known and practiced by many ballet and dance companies. It was recognized by choreographers and directors such as George Balanchine and Ruth St. Dennis. These astute professionals, among many others, recognized the Pilates system for its ability to train proper body alignment. This was achieved by helping practitioners to discover underused muscles and strengthen them in order to support the skeletal structure with more efficiency and grace. This in turn led to fewer injuries to their dancers as well as faster rehabilitation for those dancers that did become injured.

The Pilates system has only grown since then, and is still widely used in professional circles. But as the page title suggests, the system is not only helpful for dancers, but a variety of performing artists.

Take, for example, a pianist. She sits for hours at a time with her arms bent at her sides, rapidly flexing muscles and tendons in her wrists and hands. She takes a break to stretch her legs and back, perhaps rolling her wrists, before she sits for another performance or practice session. These repetitive movements can lead to habits that aren’t necessarily noticeable at first, but over time can lead to arthritis, back pain, carpal tunnel, and many other ailments. Pilates aims to address these issues before they ever come about by helping the practitioner to focus on body posture that will protect their joints, bones, and muscles. For people who are already experiencing symptoms…