Children Pilates

“In childhood, habits are easily formed – good and bad. Why not then concentrate on the formation of only good habits and thus avoid necessity later on in life of attempting to correct bad habits and substituting for them good habits.” (Pilates 1934)

Following Dawn-Marie Ickes “Magic Window” concept occurs just before the skeletal and muscular growth spurts that come with puberty, when young people from 9-13 years of age are at the peak of neurological development.

Pilate stated that, ” Civilization impairs physical fitness”. He created his method to ” develop the body uniformly, correct wrong postures, restore physical vitality, invigorate the mind and elevate the spirit”.

Pilates is a unique practice that focuses on foundational and functional movement skills, which challenges and stimulates the student while integrating the body and mind through a serious specific exercises.

The Mat exercises can be practised in 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, or 45 minutes modules.
They represent a small percentage of the complete method, but offer the most accessible format for working with young people.
Utilising Pilates Mat exercises, or floor-based exercise, young participants in a variety of teaching environments can experience this amazing life enhancing exercise method.
It is a practise for everyone, which can be done almost anywhere.


Young people engaging in Pilates Mat work learn physical skills while incorporating body awareness through disciplined focus, concentration, coordination, healthy breathing, mindful and controlled movement.

Pilates promotes the connection between building strength and flexibility on the one hand, and developing conscious awareness of the body on the other.

The practice of Pilates fosters excellence in mental fitness, emotional intelligence, physical well-being, and social competence.