Hello!
I am very interested in certifying in Pilates (starting with mat) and am learning the differences between various techniques. It seems like the Stott Method focuses the most on safe spine positioning. What is your experience with the classical versus contemporary pilates styles? Do you believe pilates can be modified for safe practice, or do you find most of the positions and movements are altogether hurtful for the spine? (I've seen some good and bad classes across styles and cringe with all the spinal flexion, rib curls, and tail tucking!).
If there is a Gokhale Method instructor who currently teaches or takes pilates, I would love to speak with them about their modifications!
Thank you Gokhale Method community!
Sincerely,
Rachael
3 days 52 min ago
08/13/2014 - 3:12pm
Thanks for your post. I am not a pilates instructor but I presented a Free Introductory Workshop at a Pilates studio in Manhattan and the owner and head teacher of the studio felt that what I taught was right in line with how she teaches her students. So it is possible to leave out the spinal distortions, etc, that make you uncomfortable!
However, when I have taken mat classes at my gym, i do find that we are often encouraged to round the spine into a "C" shape and tuck the pelvis.
Cynthia