What Is Pilates?
Pilates method is a system of movement and therapeutic exercise
developed over a century ago a span of 60 years by German born Joseph
H. Pilates. Utilizing the specialized equipment he designed, the method
works by toning muscles as well as balancing muscular force at the
joint level. It stimulates circulation through facilitating muscular
elongation, joint range of motion and proper musculoskeletal alignment.
Pilates helps to re-pattern your movement, re-align your body and
restore it to balance. In addition, Pilates promotes new neuromuscular
patterns, heightened body awareness, and more precise coordination. All
these things combine to help prevent future re-injury and reduce - even
in some cases alleviate - chronic pain altogether. Pilates can be
adapted to each individual's level of proficiency regardless of age,
gender, or level of fitness. It is suitable for anyone looking for an
effective and safe workout.
The six key principles of the Pilates Method are control,
concentration, centering, flow, precision and breath. Emphasizing
proper breathing, alignment of the body, and mental focus, the
controlled series of rhythmic, balanced movements uniformly develop the
body. The exercises are designed to strengthen and elongate the muscles
without adding bulk, improved abdominal strength, increase flexibility
and joint mobility, realign the skeletal system for better postural
alignment, improve balance, coordination, and increase bone density.
Over time, students of Pilates notice a uniformly developed body with
long lean muscles and balanced joints, and most significantly, the
power of the mind directing the body.
Benefits of Pilates
Pilates is used to rehabilitate spine problems. The method strengthens,
lengthens, and balances spinal musculature, thereby aligning and decompressing
injured vertebrae and helping to relieve nerve and disc pressure. This
decompression facilitates and stimulates healthy circulation to the damaged
spinal tissue. The pelvic and spinal stabilization work in Pilates also helps to
prepare the body for rehabilitation of other weak or damaged areas more
effectively.
Other Benefits of Pilates
- Increased abdominal strength
- Increased length, strength & muscle tone
- Increased flexibility
- Increased awareness
- Amplified energy
- Improved Life Balance and Relaxation from the commitment to consistent study of Pilates and/or Yoga
- Postural improvement
- Balance & Coordination
- Injury prevention & rehabilitation
- Increased level of fitness
Today, Pilates is offered in hospitals, medical offices, universities, health
clubs, and private studios worldwide. As both a rehabilitation, fitness, and
wellness program Pilates is a wonderful complement to sports, weights training,
physical therapy, chiropractic, massage therapy and many other therapeutic or
physical fitness systems.