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Pilates is now one of the most popular forms of exercise around,
mainly because it produces real fitness results without much
of the 'strain and burn' involved in more typical workouts.
Pilates exercise relies on a variety of special body movements
which stretch, strengthen, and tone the various muscle groups
of the body. The well-defined, controlled movements are combined
with a yoga-like mental focus that many people find extremely
refreshing.
Usually Pilates instruction is given by a trained teacher,
either in a one-on-one session or in a small group class.
There are also quite a few high-quality home video workouts
available (including the very popular Winsor Pilates program).
Because of its adaptability, just about anyone can perform
Pilates exercise - from the most out-of-shape couch potato
to the world-class professional athlete.
Focusing on the Core
The abdominal and back muscles are often collectively
referred to as the body’s core. Pilates exercises are
designed to strengthen this core by developing pelvic stability
and abdominal control. In addition, the exercises improve
flexibility and joint mobility, and build strength. How can
one exercise technique claim to do so much? The Reformer,
a wooden contraption with various cables, pulleys, springs
and sliding boards attached, lies at the foundation of Pilates.
Primarily using one’s own body weight as resistance,
participants are put through a series of progressive, range-of-motion
exercises. Despite the appearance of this, and several other
equally unusual-looking devices, Pilates exercises are very
low impact. Instructors, who typically work one-on-one or
with small groups of two or three participants, offer reminders
to engage the abdominals, the back, the upper legs and buttocks
to stabilize the body’s core. Exercise sessions are
designed according to individual flexibility and strength
limitations.
Pilates exercises are not limited to specialized machines,
however. In fact, many gyms across the country now offer Pilates
floor-work classes involving simple 'mat exercises' that also
stress the stabilization and strengthening of the back and
abdominal muscles.
Connecting with Pilates
The mind/body connection associated with yoga and
meditation also plays an integral part in Pilates. Unlike
exercise techniques that emphasize numerous repetitions in
a single direction, Pilates exercises are performed with very
few, but extremely precise, repetitions in several planes
of motion.
Health Benefits of Pilates:
• Increased overall body strength and flexibility
• Improved posture, balance, and coordination
• Decreased back, neck, and arthritis pain
• Flatter abs and more slender thighs
• Faster injury rehabilitation
• Clearer,
more refreshed mind
Pilates method exercise can seem a little difficult at
first. But usually, after a few sessions, most people
begin to feel a real difference in their muscle tone,
strength, and flexibility as well as significantly improved
posture. Also, once you become comfortable with the unique
movements and positions of Pilates, you'll probably enjoy
it enough to make it a regular part of your fitness routine!
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