Imagine a fitness regime where not only do you improve your strength, but it works your flexibility and balance as well? Well, that is Pilates for you!
Brief History On Pilates:
Pilates was originally introduced in the 1920s to America by physical fitness trainer Joseph Pilates. During that time Pilates was introduced for injured athletes and dancers for a safe return to exercise. This form of exercise requires focus and concentration because of the type of movements required. The exercises in the routines stretch each muscle group in a proper balanced form.
Health Benefits Of Pilates:
- Improves Stability
- Improves Muscle Movement
- Helps In Improving Posture
- Helps in Relaxation of Stress
- Provides Better Management of Balance
- Improves Lung Concentration and Breathing Control
- Prevents Injuries and Muscle Soreness
- Improves Spine Stabilisation
Pilates caters to everyone, from beginner to senior. It does not matter what level of fitness you are at currently, Pilates is a good option! If you want to improve your posture or you want to make sure you are flexible, start doing various forms of pilates. Additionally, indulging in Pilates will never exhaust your muscles completely even though it is inspired by yoga, calisthenics, and ballet. However, the slow and controlled movements help in loosening your joints which in turns helps in preventing injuries.
Types Of Pilates:
Mat-Based Pilates: This type of Pilates focuses on the exerciser performed using gravity and body weight. Most of these exercises are performed on the floor using a mat. The primary aim is to support the muscles to improve balance, coordination, and posture.
Equipment-Based Pilates: This form of Pilates include working with specific types of equipment. Some of these include dumbbells and plates or other spring-loaded resistance equipment. These exercises offer a certain amount of resistance to various muscles which in turn strengthen the muscles.
General Benefits Of Pilates:
Assists in weight loss: Practicing Pilates on a daily or regular basis can help you achieve a lean physique. When you perform Pilates on a weekly basis, you will start to feel fit. Obviously, with the number of exercises done each session, you burn a significant amount of calories.
Helps in energy boost: This is a general rule that the more you exercise the more energy you have. That being said, if you do Pilates weekly you will see a boost of energy after 10 to 15 sessions. The movements performed stimulates the muscles and the spine and gets the blood flowing throughout the body.
Develops the core strength: When you focus on your body and your muscles, core muscles should be an integral part of it. These core muscles are what we depend on for our strong posture. When you perform core muscle exercises, the entire framework of your body receives support. Additionally, a bonus point of performing Pilates on a weekly basis is the abs that show up!
You can start with Pilates with one or two sessions a week and then increase the number. Start off slow so you get a hang of it and then increase the pace! Before you start, click here to know the benefits of yoga!