DANC 253 Pilates Semester course; 2-4 laboratory hours. 1-2 credits. Students engage in a physical practice: matwork of the Pilates system, built on the work of Joseph H. Pilates. The practice is designed to improve muscular-skeletal performance, strength, flexibility and endurance, while focusing on core stability, restoring the optimal curves of the spine, relieving tension and enhancing self-confidence. Basic muscular anatomy and kinesiology will also be integrated into instruction and cuing for greater body awareness.