Functional Anatomy of the Pilates Core ─ An Illustrated Guide to a Safe and Effective Core Training Program

Whether the reader is an academic, a professional teacher, or a Pilates practitioner,Functional Anatomy of the Pilates Core will provide profound insights into the central emphasis of the method: core stabilization. Pilates is widely accepted and utilized as a system that promotes health and proper movement patterns through the development of balanced muscles, joint alignment, and core control. Here, the six fundamental principles--Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breath, and Flow--are explained in the light of current research on neuroplasticity (the brain's capacity to reorganize itself by developing new neuronal connections), and on the function of fascia (the matrix-like connective tissue of the body). When the principles of functional anatomy are not considered during exercise application, muscle imbalances, chronic tightness, and even pain can result. Clearly written, and beautifully illustrated with over 110 full-color illustrations, Functional Anatomy of the Pilates Corereveals the missing connection between functional anatomy of the core--how human bodies stabilize and move--and its application during the fundamental core exercises.

Table of Contents:
Chapter 1 Introduction to the Pilates Principles
Chapter 2 Functional Anatomy of the Pilates Core
Chapter 3 The Breathe Activation Strategy(TM) for Core Stabilization
Chapter 4 Dysfunction and Responses to Non-optimal Core Stabilization Strategies
Chapter 5 Integrating the Pilates Principles

Dr. Evan Osar is an internationally recognized author and industry expert in the fields of functional anatomy, corrective exercise, and functional rehabilitation and training. Osar has authored several books, manuals, and DVDs for the health and fitness professional, including the highly acclaimed Corrective Exercise Solutions to Common Hip and Shoulder Dysfunction. His many articles and videos for the on-line newsletters Fitness Insider cover a variety a topics including but not limited to posture, functional anatomy, rehabilitation, corrective exercise, and functional training for Fitness Education Seminars, which currently has over 12,000 YouTube subscribers and over 2,000,000 visits. He is also a regular contributor to PTontheNet and ECA on-line newsletter. Dr. Osar is a regular presenter for Fitness Education Seminars, ECA World Fitness, SCW Fitness, and the Perform Better Functional Training Summits. He has been invited to speak at the 2013 Annual British Chiropractic Association as well as the 2014 Norway Chiropractic Association Annual meetings. He is the developer of the Integrative Movement System(TM), a principle-based approach to training and conditioning the general population.