Fletcher Standing & Centering™

All Fletcher Pilates® classes and sessions begin with Fletcher Standing and Centering™. Traditional Pilates mat work does not place emphasis on vertical posture.  In a clinical or coaching situation, assessment for postural problems is usually diagnosed with a patient or a student in a standing position. Beginning class in standing posture reminds the student that vertical posture is an important part of good health and proper maintenance of the "inner architecture" of the body.  It also reminds the student that the goal of movement begins in the body and not on equipment. This vertical posture also teaches the student to place emphasis on core posture in daily activity.   Ron Fletcher uses specific, visual cues to help the student understand the basic concepts of correct posture through sensory imagery.  The Fletcher Standing and Centering™ cues become a foundation for reference throughout the program as the work proceeds to floor and equipment.

The following are important reasons for including Standing and Centering work:

• Teaches foot placement and foot articulation;
• Develops bilateral symmetry in stasis and movement;
• Develops dynamic pelvic stabilization;
• Teaches spatial awareness through directional change, level change, and focus;

The Fletcher Work® is accessible to the beginning or remedial student.  It is simple and precise.  The eloquence of the work becomes apparent with the introduction of barre work and movement across the floor.  Barre work creates an environment for the development of balance and control.  Simple skills of classical dance training are used to teach proper technique of leg and footwork in standing.  Movement across the floor uses these skills in simple or complex patterns to complete a total movement program.