What is Proprioception?

Proprioception, often referred to as the "sixth sense," is the body's ability to sense and perceive its position, movement, and orientation in space. It is a weird concept to understand if things like balance, differentiating between R & L and timing are challenging for you. Proprioception allows us to have a clear understanding of our body's position, even without visual cues. It helps us know where our limbs are in relation to our body and the environment. This awareness is essential for precise movements, efficient posture, and efficient execution of tasks in daily life, sports, and activities.

Proprioception is an integral aspect of Pilates because it helps develop body awareness, balance, and coordination, which are principles of Pilates. Joseph Pilates method was developed to allow individuals to move with greater precision and control. By focusing on conscious and deliberate movements, repetition and feedback, Pilates exercises activate and challenge the proprioceptive system. Overtime, this heightened sense of proprioception helps us maintain stability, adjust our posture, and make fine adjustments during bigger movements. Think of moving smoother with a stronger foundation, enhancing how hard you’re working overall while reducing the risk of injuries.

“For every thought supported by feeling, there is a muscle change. Primary muscle patterns being the biological heritage of man, man’s whole body records his emotional thinking.

- Mabel Elsworth Todd

Book References & Recommendations

Taking Root to Fly: Articles on Functional Anatomy by Irene Dowd

The Thinking Body by Mabel Elsworth Todd