Pilates could be described as a method of exercise developed by Joseph Pilates. It is a physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen, lengthen and balance the body. It was in 1926 that Joseph Pilates brought the Pilate program, then called "Contrology", to the city of New York. Their program centered on postural symmetry, breathing control, abdominal strength, spine, pelvis and shoulder stabilization, muscular flexibility and joint mobility. Training with Pilates you will find that your whole body is trained using the upper and lower extremities with the trunk.
Pilates is an exercise that almost anyone can do and achieve amazing results. There is no bouncing, jarring or any stress to your body. Pilates is also convenient because it does not require any special or expensive equipment. One could do Pilates anywhere and anytime. There are some Pilates workouts that are only ten minutes long. It makes it so anyone can find time to do a quick workout.
If you practice Pilates faithfully, it will yield many benefits. You will notice an increase in lung capacity and circulation. This is achieved through deep breathing which is the primary focus. Strength and flexibility, especially in the abdomen and back muscles. The coordination between these, are the key components for a Pilates program. Your posture, balance and your core strength are all increased. It has been noticed that bone density and joint health improve. Many people who practice Pilates notice positive body awareness. Overall Pilates teaches control and balance of your body.
If you are out of shape and looking for a program to ease into, then Pilates would be the best thing to start out with. Pilates can be rehabilitative, almost like going to your physical therapist; in fact some of their techniques are based on Pilates. Unlike other forms of exercising you can do Pilates every day without overstressing your body, muscles and joints. To see results you would only need to do Pilates three days a week.
Pilates will benefit your emotional health as well; the steady and smooth movements calm your mind and relax your nervous system. When you start to lengthen and strengthen your muscles you will improve your circulation and the tension will melt away. After each workout, you will be calm, relaxed, balanced and rejuvenated. While you are working out you need to focus on letting the tension go
As you get older your balance starts to deteriorate because your muscles weaken and your nerve receptors begin to lose their sensitivity. Pilates will reverse this aging process by stabilizing your core. A Pilates workout works the small, deep muscles that are needed to keep your body steady when you are walking and your spine will be supple and strong.
Pilates is wonderful after you have a baby to lose the pregnancy tummy. And because it is low impact it is easy to start doing. If you do a few key moves on a regular basis you see an improvement. Muscles have a great memory! They will come back after a little toning.
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Pilates
Written By: Michael Russell
