Why Pilates

 I know some people do pilates but I’ve never really done it since I know little about it.  It’s been around for a while and people swear by it but I’ve not lived in places where it was offered.  I wondered if it could be done with a DVD safely or if it were better done in person?  So first thing, what is Pilates?

Pilates is a form of exercise created in the 1920’s as a way of helping injured athletes and dancers recover faster and better. Over time, it moved out into the general public as exercise.  Pilates itself, is composed of around 500 exercises combining calisthenics, yoga, and ballet. In addition, Pilates can be aerobic or anaerobic depending on the exercise.  

Pilates requires more focus than many other exercises because the body is moved through a series of precise movements while working all the major muscle groups in the body. It is necessary to find the center point needed to control your body during each movement.  

One of the big differences between Pilotes and other forms of exercise is that it does not work the muscles to exhaustion, instead it uses a low number of repetitions throughout the 45 to 60 minute session.  Furthermore, the most effective sessions are done so the exercises are individualized and adjusted on a regular basis. Pilates is designed to increase flexibility, muscle strength and tone, stabilizes the spine, and improves coordination and balance.  

There are two types of Pilates.  One is mat based while the other one relies on equipment.  The mat based version is performed on the floor, relying on gravity and one’s body to provide resistance.  It is used to work the deeper muscles used to support the body. This helps improve a person’s posture, balance and coordination. On the other hand, the equipment based version uses equipment to provide the resistance.

The advantages of doing Pilates are many including the fact that this one works the whole body while concentrating on the core so a person is stronger and in better shape. Pilates helps people develop long strong muscles by using a muscle contraction that contracts the muscle while elongating it.  It improves flexibility, improves posture, while increasing energy. Pilates can also help a person look fitter.  

Although it is recommended for just about everyone, it is suggested that people who have recently had surgery, are expecting, are over the age of 40, are overweight , or who have not exercised in a long time talk to their doctor before beginning this type of workout. If a person has never done Pilates before, it is recommended they sign up for a class at the local gym or studio to learn to do it correctly.  

So if you want something to make you look better, feel better, and help you increase your fitness without a lot of sweating, you might want to check it out.  I plan to this summer when I have a bit more time.  Let me know what you think, I’d love to hear.  Have a great day.