In the last post of our Back-to-Basics series, we’re focusing on the advanced principle of Flow in Pilates. We encourage you to take this opportunity to refocus your practice on the principles that are the foundation of every Pilates movement. If you missed our other posts in the series on centering, concentration, control, precision, and breath, visit our blog.
Finding Your Flow in Pilates
When you’ve mastered the other principles of Pilates (concentration, control, centering, precision, and breath), it’s time to find your flow. Flow is where everything starts to click. Movements connect and transitions feel seamless. You’re present, focused, and energized.
Simply put, flow is go-go-go. But it’s not about rushing. It’s about moving with purpose and continuity. In the early days of your Pilates journey, you focus on mastering the separate movements. By practicing flow, you combine movements and experience Pilates as a unified, intelligent movement system. Once you find your flow, your Pilates practice becomes more powerful and joyful.
Flow Is Go-Go-Go
Once mastered, here’s what flow in Pilates looks like.
Seamless Transitions
Practicing flow, you move from one movement to the next without stopping to reset, overthink or fidget. You are confident in your mastery of the principles of concentration, precision, and breath.
Sustained Energy
You don’t pause to rest between every movement. By continuing with your practice, you build strength and endurance.
Consistent Tempo
Whether you’re moving fast or slowly, your pace remains smooth. You are in control of your speed and are using your breath to set a consistent tempo.
Full-Body Integration
Each movement feels connected to the next, as if your whole body is working in unison rather than as isolated parts.
Remember that flow isn’t about rushing or pushing through movements, it’s about maintaining momentum. Flow keeps you in your practice, connected from beginning to end.
How Flow Elevates Your Pilates Practice
Mastering flow in Pilates elevates your practice in several ways:
- Boosts Cardiovascular and Muscular Endurance by keeping your heart rate up and muscles working.
- Builds Mental Focus because flow demands your mental presence, no checking out allowed.
- Enhances Grace and Coordination of your movements as you master how to move fluidly and efficiently.
- Deepens the Mind-Body Connection as you move with instinct and awareness.
JLB Pilates Can Help You Find Your Flow
Mastering the advanced principle of flow isn’t easy on your own, especially if you’re new to Pilates or trying to correct old habits. That’s where the guidance of the expert JLB Pilates instructors in our small group or individual setting can make all the difference.
Because we intentionally keep our class sizes smaller and maximize opportunities to work with clients one-on-one, we can give you the individualized attention you need to fine-tune your transitions, alignment, and pacing. We work the Pilates method efficiently and effectively to maximize a balanced body. Real-time feedback keeps you honest and corrects movements immediately, while the encouraging, small group setting keeps you motivated.
Flow is the spark that brings your practice to life. With the right guidance, it’s absolutely within your reach. Our instructors will work one-on-one with you or in a small group setting to help you master flow and take your practice from good to great.
Interested in checking out our Pilates studio? We enjoy working with individuals in Maple Grove and surrounding communities to find healing through movement. Schedule your initial appointment with our team today.
