Mat Pilates Exam Study Guide
Concentration and Control - answer✔The initiation of movement is the result of stimulating the
motor areas of the brain.
Centering - answer✔Stabilizing the torso is the primary motivation and centers on all Pilates-
based movement.
Breath - answer✔the breath leads the movement rather than the movement leading the breath.
The technique emphasizes a deep diaphragmatic inhale followed by forced exhalation through
the mouth.
Precision and Flow - answer✔Pilates-based exercises are focused on the precision of the
movement favoring quality of movement versus quantity of repetitions. Proper execution will
ensure full benefits of the exercise, including smooth transitions from one position to the next.
Stamina - answer✔Improving the core and using mental strength to resist fatigue is necessary to
increase endurance with improved performance.
Integration - answer✔body awareness and efficiency of movement creating a strong stable torso,
plus rebalancing the rest of the body.
Strength and Stabilization - answer✔Working the deep muscles are the stabilizers and the focus
of Pilates-based exercises.
Flexibility and Range of Motion (ROM) - answer✔Flexibility training improves joint mobility.
Exercises are performed with control and without momentum. Correct form is favored over
range of motion, since body types are different in strength and flexibility.
Proper Body Alignment - answer✔Necessary to correctly perform each exercise.
Balance - answer✔When all the body's muscles work together. There are various types of
balance.
Symmetrical balance - answer✔When opposing muscle groups (anterior (front) and posterior
(back)) as well as bilateral (right and left) are balanced for postural support.
Balance between strength and flexibility - answer✔Lengthening tight muscles and strengthening
weak muscles.
Coordination and Body Awareness - answer✔Incorporating the concept of mindfulness with
movement by increasing focused awareness into everyday life and daily activities.