What is Pilates?
Pilates is a series of carefully designed exercises that focus on improving core strength, flexibility, and bring balance to the entire body.
Pilates is named after its inventor, Joseph Pilates. He created this method in the 1920’s for his own physical therapy after experiencing injuries as an athlete.
Joseph Pilates discovered that by elongating the muscles of the body and stabilizing the core ultimate strength and flexibility could be achieved. Pilates exercises develop and tone the entire body and use many muscle groups at the same time. Soon after Joseph began using his own methods, many dancers and other athletes began training with him. It is now known as the “dancer’s workout” as the technique is similar to that of a ballet dancer.
Pilates can be done on a mat, with no equipment at all, on a machine called a Reformer, or using small pieces of equipment for added resistance and challenge like a Flexband, or Fitness circle. Pilates classes can be found in specialized studios or in various gyms. Group or private sessions are usually offered with a variety of levels to choose from. This is a great workout for anyone – beginner to elite athlete.
Some benefits include:
- Promotes physical harmony for people of all ages and conditions.
- Engages the mind and body
- Can aid in recovery of soft tissue injuries
- Helps develop proper breathing and body alignment
- Improves focus and concentration
- Helps prevent injury
- Increases body awareness
- Improves coordination
- Improves circulation
- Improves athletic performance and overall health.
Everyone can benefit by implementing some Pilates into their current workout routine. Enjoy these Pilates exercises and feel your breath, experience your strength, and discover your power.