Pilates classes are so much more than a workout for your body. When Joseph Pilates developed the floor exercises now known solely by his famous last name, he wanted to engage his mind, body, and spirit. At Pilates 580 in Oakland, CA, the instructors focus on not only strengthening your core but also integrating the six principles of the mind-body-spirit approach to Pilates.

At Pilates 580, you’ll increase your flexibility, tone your muscles, and lose inches off your waist. You’ll also leave each of their Pilates classes feeling balanced, refreshed, and inspired. That’s because the instructors focus on these six principles during each exercise, whether on a mat or on Pilates equipment, such as the Pilates reformer.

• Centering: This principle focuses on the center of your body, or your powerhouse. The powerhouse is the part of your body that goes from the bottom of your ribs to your hip line, including your abs, lower back, pelvic floor, hips, and glutes. Focusing on your powerhouse gives you the stability and strength for advanced Pilates exercises.
• Concentration: Give your full attention to each exercise to get the most out of each movement. Clearing your mind involves an element of meditation in all Pilates classes. 
• Control: Go slowly and focus on engaging every single muscle you’re using to perform each Pilates exercise.
• Precision: Whether during a private session or an intimate class at the Pilates studio, instructors at Pilates 580 help students with appropriate placement and alignment of each body part.
• Breath: Breath work is a pillar of Pilates. Joseph Pilates thought of the lungs as bellows that pumped air in and out of the body. Coordinate the movement with the breath to fully experience the exercise.
• Flow: Fluidity and grace are hallmarks of Pilates; all Pilates exercises should flow from one to the other. At Pilates 580, use Pilates equipment such as the Pilates reformer to test your ability to control and flow.

At Pilates 580, instructors integrate these principles into all Pilates classes to help students find balance, ease, and a sense of well-being. To experience a Pilates 580 workout for yourself or learn more about the classes they offer, visit their website or call them at (510) 338-3932.