About Pilates

Pilates is not, as NCIS character Special Agent Tony DiNozzo proclaims, "expensive stretching", nor does it have much in common with yoga. Pilates is a real, full-body workout that is challenging, centering, and calming all at once. No matter what your fitness level is, Pilates will make you sweat as you move from one exercise to the next at a fluid pace doing exercises that are adapted to suit your body. Pilates preaches precise movements that are cued and corrected to the same degree as classical dance forms, yet are dynamic and fun to move through. Challenge yourself with a new way thinking for your body!

Contrology, the original name for this form of exercise, was originally developed by Joseph Pilates during World War II where he used his idea of a "mind over matter" type of fitness regime to rehabilitate injured soldiers. The method works to improve muscle tone, strength and flexibility without adding bulk.

STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than two decades refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs. It’s used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.

Pilates will help:

- build long, lean muscles
- correct alignment issues in the spine
- improve range of motion
- develop stronger abdominal muscles
- stabilise the spine
- prevent and rehabilitate injury
- improve proprioceptive awareness
- improve sporting abilities

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About Me

Emma Cunningham is a STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor. Her classes are motivating and informational as she leads clients through high-powered intense Pilates workouts. She has worked with everyone from international tennis champions to fitness professionals to post-rehab patients. Emma uses her past background in both theatre and flying trapeze to enhance her workouts, creating a multi-dimensional program that is safe, effective, intelligent, and fun.

Emma is also a moderator on the Pilates Connections Discussion Board, a forum for Pilates professionals and enthusiasts to exchange tips, ask and answer questions, and share their passion for all things Pilates.

 

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Client Testimonials

“It was a privilege to be taught by someone who not only had an incredible enthusiasm for the program but a deep knowledge of the human body, the rehabilitative aspects of Pilates and a great love of Pilates itself.”
-- Pat Onyskiw, Principal

“Together, Pilates and Emma Cunningham changed my life… When I first started Pilates I was really worried about injuring myself again but Emma was so attentive and educated regarding the different physiological concerns I had… I am stronger than I have been in years and have been told that I look better than I did 10 years ago.”
-- Lisa Lewis, Director of Strategic Planning

“I am impressed with her commitment, focus, expertise and energy.  I immediately felt comfortable with her and her approach which is essential in one-on-one instruction.  Emma takes me through an intense workout that focuses both on my “problem areas” as well as exercises that will improve my performance for the sports I participate in. In a very short time I can already see and feel a difference.  My Pilates workouts with Emma are always something I look forward to and enjoy, and I feel truly fortunate that I am able to train with her.”
-- Janet Craig, Vice President of Investor Relations

“Emma’s attention to detail and understanding of body mechanics is amazing and she knows just how to communicate the exercises simply and clearly while she keeps you moving. She cuts right to the chase with her extraordinary eye yet never loses sight of the importance of giving an enjoyable, flowing workout. I can’t praise her enough. I consider private Pilates sessions to be an essential workout for anyone – and Emma has shown me just why that is – the results have been incredible!”
-- Dahlia Steinberg, Vinyasa Yoga Certified Instructor

“Emma is a fantastic teacher, who strives for the best results with every one of her students. She takes the time to get to know her students, their objectives, and their challenges, and tailors each class to optimize individual learning. Her great attention to detail and her eye for form and technique make even group classes feel like private sessions.”
-- Lin Wan, Brand Strategist

"Emma is extremely knowledgable and great to work with. She introduced me to pilates last year and I love the classes, and her as a teacher. She has helped me reach personal goals and I would recommed her to anyone."
-- Megan Ramsay, Assistant Consultant