The Pilates studio, which opened at the JCC of Greater New Haven this past winter, is now expanding. “Pilates is such a beneficial method of strengthening your core and improving overall wellness that we are not surprised to see more and more JCC members adding it to their basic routines,” says Susan Donovan, Director of Health & Wellness Services at the JCC.
The existing pair of Balanced Body ™ Apparatus, including the Reformer and Trap Table (called the Cadillac) - are now joined by the Pilates Ladder Barrel for core strength and flexibility exercises. “The Pilates Ladder Barrel helps you isolate deep postural muscles and challenges the body in all planes of movement,” says Christina Rodino. “It’s a well-known favorite among Pilates Trainers and enthusiasts,” adds Suzanne Leonards. Both Rodino and Leonards are certified Pilates trainers at the JCC.
Pilates exercise starts with the core of your body, with full breaths refreshing your cells, with your heart and circulatory system pumping fresh blood into your tissues, and with training the deep muscles of your abdomen, back and pelvis to support your spine and provide stability in your pelvis and shoulders as you move. Practiced regularly, Pilates yields numerous benefits: increased lung capacity and circulation through deep, controlled breathing, strength and flexibility, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles, and coordination - both muscular and mental. Many experience positive body awareness for the first time. With improved posture, balance and control of the body, many find that benefits from Pilates spill over into other areas of one’s life.
The expansion in the Pilates offering takes the studio to a new location in the fitness area. Come check it out and schedule an intro session, free of charge to JCC members. Contact Susan Donovan at susand@jccnh.org for more info.