PILATES OVERVIEW

Pilates exercise is one of the fastest growing exercises in the United States, Europe, Canada.

Pilates exercise is a form of exercise that stretches, strengthens and balances the body. People with various physical activity interests are practicing this exercise and reaping its benefits. This exercise program is being used by many people from dancers to ball players. It isn’t just for the trendy and rich, either. It is popping up in schools and local fitness clubs like the YMCA.

It can increase a person’s lung capacity and circulation. This is done primarily through the breathing that is taught in the class.

People are able to increase their strength, flexibility and coordination as well as balance and control of the body.

This exercise was invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. He was a boxer and a performer. Interestingly enough, his work during World War I consisted of being a caretaker and helping people with injuries and diseases.

He developed an exercise approach during that time that was used to rehabilitate patients. His most ardent supporter was his wife Clare. She was a trained nurse who used her husband’s exercises to aid the seriously injured and ill. Many people credit Clare for being the one who made this exercise well known for being a type of exercise that could easily be tailored around an individual’s specific needs.

Developing core strength is the basis.

The idea is that if the core muscles of the body are strong then the rest of the body will not have unnecessary tension and be able to function and move smoothly and properly. Strengthening the deep abs and stabilizing the upper torso will in turn bring stability and strength to the rest of the torso.

Along with core strength focus, it also has six principles which guide their exercise.

These are Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breath and Flow.

Centering

This practice involves bringing an individual’s focus to the center of their body, between the pubic bone and lower ribs.

This center, which includes the abdomen, hips, and lower back, is known as the powerhouse area. This program believes that a strong center is crucial. From this center, all other movements flow outward.

Concentration

It is thought that if a person can bring their full concentration to the exercise and focus on it alone that the individual will reap the maximum benefits of the exercise.

Concentration refers to the process of focusing your mind on every movement. Full attention is given to even the slightest motion of the body.

Control

This exercise works through complete muscular control. No part of the body is left out.

Control refers to the process of keeping all the movements thorough. Complete control must be exerted on all muscles of the body. This ensures that the body is in the proper position, preventing injury and leading to effective results.

Precision

In Pilates exercise, precision of movement is crucial. There is a proper placement and alignment of each body part.

Precision is the process of ensuring that the body is in the proper form. Every muscle should be properly aligned because every movement is accomplished for a certain purpose. It focuses on the quality instead of the quantity of movements.

Breath

Pilates exercise uses full breath. The exercises are coordinated with breathing and are a very important part of a Pilates exercise program.

Breathing refers to the process of inhaling and exhaling fully while doing the exercises. This is accomplished so that the body’s circulation is improved and that the waste products are removed completely from the body. All the movements are coordinated with breathing.

Flow

This exercise is very smooth, graceful, flowing and controlled.

Flow refers to the process of doing the exercises fluidly. Every movement is connected to the next, and no movement is static, isolated or jerky. Grace is more important than speed.

The great thing about this exercise is that anyone can do it and it can be adapted to most any fitness level. You can easily take a class or two at your local YMCA to see if it is a type of exercise that you think you would enjoy.

If you plan to sign up for your first class you may want to invest in a Pilates exercise mat. These mats are generally a tad thicker than a general yoga mat.

The clothing that you wear during your class should fit fairly snug, but be stretchable. It is important that you do not wear extremely over sized or baggy clothing to class because it will hamper the instructor’s ability to be able to see your body and to know whether you have proper form or not.

Benefits

Pilates has been known to lead to various health benefits. It increases flexibility and balance of the body. It also promotes an increase in height by properly aligning the spine, resulting in better posture. Lung capacity is increased and body circulation is also improved. The body also becomes stronger, specifically the powerhouse region. Aside from a form of exercise, This program is also being used in rehabilitation.

Disadvantages

Pilates also has its disadvantages. Classes are usually expensive, as the cost of a class includes payment for the studio, specific equipment and the instructor.

Also, there has been an issue regarding the certification of instructors. Shortened training programs at much cheaper costs have resulted in poorly trained instructors. To respond to this need, an organization called the Pilates Method Alliance was formed in 2000. This international organization maintains the appropriate standard for training and ensures that trainers are qualified. The organization also developed the National Certification Exam for Pilates.

If done correctly, Pilates yields a lot of benefits. It is thus important to choose the right trainer to guide you. It will make you more aware of your body, allowing you to gain better control of it in your daily activities.

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DISCLAIMER: This information is not presented by a medical practitioner and is for educational and informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or physical exercise program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.

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