FlowlyBreathing in Pilates
Breath is the first thing we organise, because it changes how everything else feels.
ConceptFoundational4 min read5 min practice
What it is
In Pilates we pay attention to breath not as a rule to obey but as a tool. Most of the time we breathe wide into the ribs and let the exhale be unhurried. The ribs move sideways and back, not only up.
Why we practise it
Breath sets the tempo of a movement, influences how much effort you recruit, and gives you something to notice when a movement feels vague. When people say a movement suddenly 'made sense', it is often the breath that changed.
What to notice
- Where you feel the movement of your ribs — front, side, or back.
- Whether your shoulders rise as you inhale.
- What happens to the length of your exhale when a movement gets harder.
Common experience
It is very common to hold your breath during effort, or to feel that breathing 'correctly' takes more concentration than the exercise itself. That settles with practice.
Try this
Sit tall and place your hands on the sides of your ribs. Inhale for three counts and see if you can feel your hands move outwards. Exhale for five. Repeat five times, then notice whether your shoulders feel any different.
Progress / modify
- Lying on your back with knees bent if sitting feels effortful.
- Add a light band around the ribs for more feedback.
Go deeper
Reflect
A moment to notice
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