Pilates is an exercise program / system designed to provide participants with an array of benefits. By engaging in Pilates exercises alone with a group, both men and women can quickly shape up, lose weight, and increase their muscle tone.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is said to have been created by a man named Joseph Hubertus Pilates, who suffered from an array of respiratory and health issues. Due to his personal health constraints, Joseph could not participate in popular / traditional exercises. To combat these issues and to improve his health, Joseph created the Pilates system that utilizes movements that strengthen both the body and the mind.
While Joseph Hubertus Pilates originally created his Pilates system in the late 1800s or early 1900s, Pilates today still focuses on his core ideas of building mental and physical strength. Specifically, Pilates serves to provide participants with benefits such as:
- Increased flexibility
- Greater lean muscle / muscle tone
- Improved muscle definition
- Decreased body fat
- Greater core strength and wellness
- Improved mental focus
- Reduced stress
- Improves balance
- Improves coordination
- Reduces the risks of injury
How do I Exercise With Pilates?
Today, most individuals discover the many Pilates by engaging in a group fitness class, or by receiving assistance from a personal trainer. Once an individual learns the basic and core movements of Pilates, one can begin to practice the exercises on their own. To engage in Pilates, some fitness centers utilize tools and / or pieces of equipment. Additionally, Pilates almost always requires the use of a fitness mat.
To introduce yourself to various Pilates techniques, try checking online for local classes or Pilates trainers. Today, most fitness clubs provide Pilates classes, as this exercise approach has become universally popular. Most fitness classes that incorporate Pilates have a certified / experienced instructor who can help each individual learn the details and motions of each exercise. With support and practice, Pilates gradually becomes easier, as the muscles quickly respond to increase strength and flexibility.
If participating in Pilates at a local fitness center is not an option, individuals can also try out various Pilates exercise DVDs or online programs. Most Pilates DVDs / programs strive to teach individuals the step by step components to successfully engage in powerful and challenging movements. Additionally, many participants assert that the at home DVDs / programs are far more convenient and private than attending a public class or fitness center.
