“Change happens through movement and movement heals.”
– Joseph Pilates
What is Pilates?
Pilates was originally developed by Joseph H. Pilates in the early 20th century as a series of mind-body exercises targeting the deep stabilizing muscles around the abdomen and spine to strengthen the whole body. Joseph called his exercise method, “Contrology”, the practice of controlled movement with regulated breathing. Joseph Pilates complemented his exercises with a variety of equipment, called "apparatus". Each apparatus builds upon basic mat work by introducing resistance to enhance flexibility, strength, mobility, body alignment and core stability.
Pilates has since evolved through modern theories of exercise science. By incorporating biomechanical principles into movement, Pilates helps people of all ages to develop body strength, flexibility and endurance without building bulk or stressing joints. Pilates helps to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints. Strengthening these internal deep stabilizers also promotes proper alignment of the body to alleviate back, shoulder and neck pain and to move with ease and with better energy.
Joseph Pilates
“Pilates is complete coordination of body, mind and spirit.”
– Joseph Pilates
Benefits of Pilates
Founder & Instructor
Carolyn discovered Pilates in 2010 when she was looking for a solution to alleviate chronic neck and shoulder pains while working in a corporate office. She quickly found the benefits of Pilates to be transformative. Through increased body awareness, Carolyn developed improved postural alignment within herself.
As her discovery of Pilates continued she noticed the exercise required strong mental concentration in order to mobilize the body in controlled movements. This strong mental focus created more space in her mind, similar to the effect of meditation, providing psychologically uplifting support to complement Carolyn’s physical training.
Carolyn has continued to use Pilates as a tool to build strength and create balance for her body and mind. The effect of feeling centered and energised after each practice has kept her on the path of Pilates.
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As an enthusiastic and a consistent practitioner of Pilates, Carolyn completed her first Pilates instructor certification in 2016 and has continued to passionately pursue further certifications and courses. She finds human anatomy fascinating and believes everyone could enjoy and benefit from practicing Pilates.
Carolyn teaches functional and challenging exercises to help her clients restore muscle balance and improve body strength in a biomechanically healthy way. As in her own life, Carolyn helps clients to incorporate Pilates into their daily lives by mastering the principles of safe and efficient movement.
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Originally from Taiwan, Carolyn studied in the U.S. and received a Bachelor degree in Business from New York University. She is fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese.
Carolyn Kao
Uplift Pilates Founder & Instructor
Qualifications
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STOTT PILATES® Injuries and Special Populations, 2021
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Trained Diastasis Recti Recovery Specialist with Carolyne Anthony, 2020 (online)
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Total Barre® Certified Instructor, 2019
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STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor Reformer Level 1, 2019
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Pre/Post Natal Certification (Pilates International Academy), 2018
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Pilates Instructor All Populations Mat 1 (Pilates International Academy), 2016