Here is a Pilates glossary that includes some common terms used in Pilates practice:
Pilates: A physical fitness system developed by Joseph Pilates that focuses on strengthening and lengthening muscles, improving posture and flexibility, and enhancing mind-body awareness.
Core: The muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and hips that provide stability and support to the spine.
Matwork: The practice of Pilates exercises performed on a mat, using body weight and minimal equipment.
Reformer: A Pilates equipment that uses springs and pulleys to provide resistance for Pilates exercises.
Cadillac: A Pilates apparatus that consists of a table with a frame above it, featuring springs, bars, and straps for various exercises.
Chair: A piece of Pilates equipment that consists of a seat and a pedal, used for various exercises.
Breath: A fundamental element of Pilates practice, which emphasizes deep, controlled breathing to improve oxygenation, relaxation, and body awareness.
Neutral spine: A position in which the spine is neither flexed nor extended, but in its natural, neutral alignment.
Pelvic tilt: A movement in which the pelvis tilts forward or backward, to engage different muscles and adjust the alignment of the spine.
Abdominal scoop: A movement in which the lower abdominals are drawn inward and upward, to engage the core and support the spine.
Spinal articulation: A sequence of movements in which the spine is flexed, extended, and/or rotated, to improve mobility and flexibility.
Hip extension: A movement in which the hips are lifted or extended backward, to strengthen the glutes and hamstrings.
Leg circle: A movement in which one or both legs are moved in a circular motion, to improve hip mobility and strengthen the legs.
Shoulder bridge: A movement in which the hips are lifted off the ground, while the shoulders and feet remain grounded, to strengthen the glutes and lower back.
Teaser: A Pilates exercise that involves lifting the torso and legs off the ground while balancing on the sit bones, to strengthen the core and improve balance.
Roll-up: A Pilates exercise that involves rolling up and down the spine while lying on the mat, to improve spinal mobility and strengthen the core.
Hundred: A Pilates exercise that involves holding the legs up while pulsing the arms up and down for a count of 100, to improve cardiovascular endurance and core strength.
Swan: A Pilates exercise that involves lifting the torso off the ground while keeping the legs and pelvis grounded, to improve upper back strength and flexibility.
Saw: A Pilates exercise that involves twisting the torso while reaching forward with one arm and reaching back with the other, to improve spinal rotation and strengthen the core.
Spine stretch: A Pilates exercise that involves sitting with the legs straight and reaching forward to stretch the spine and hamstrings.
