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Pilates?

Updated: May 17, 2020

Pilates? Is that a fruit?


Never heard of Pilates? That's alright because we are going to do a full breakdown of what it is and how it may benefit you! Who knows, maybe by the end of this article, your next workout routine might just be this newfound form of exercise!


Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles while improving postural alignment and flexibility. Pilates exercises tend to focus on the core although they do work other areas of your body as well. Pilates usually focus more on control rather than endless reps to exhaust your muscles. Breathing is heavily emphasized to allow better mind-muscle connection which improves control.


Fun fact, in the 1920s, physical trainer Joseph Pilates introduced Pilates into America as a way to help injured athletes and dancers safely return to exercise and maintain their fitnessS

So now that you know a little bit more about what Pilates is, let's talk about how it is usually done!



Can Pilates be done without equipment?


Definitely! Pilates, just like yoga, is usually done on a mat, usually thicker than those used for yoga. Those who are more advanced at Pilates usually use a piece of specialized equipment called the reformer.



The Pilates Reformer helps you to find the length and space in the body while under spring tension. This piece of apparatus helps create internal pressure to elongate the spine, joints, and muscles which tends to lead to greater flexibility, strength, stamina, and a more balanced posture.


Does it mean that reformers are more effective than mat Pilates? Well... not necessarily.

Mat and reformer Pilates go hand in hand to help you achieve greater flexibility, control, and stamina in your muscles. For beginners, mat Pilates helps build a strong foundation in terms of muscle control, strength, and flexibility. The reformer is made of pulleys, springs, straps, cables, and bars. Each part can be adjusted for more or less resistance. As you become more comfortable with Pilates the reformer may be a good way to increase the strength of your muscles. With a good combination of mat Pilates and The Pilates Reformer, it will give you well-rounded strength and agility.


How can it help me?


Pilates is adaptable to many fitness levels and needs


With thousands of possible exercises and modifications, Pilates workouts can be tailored to individual needs. Whether you are a senior just starting to exercise, an elite athlete, or somewhere in between, the foundations of Pilates movement apply to you. From a simple easy 20 minutes exercise to a more advanced 45 mins Pilates session, Pilates is suitable for any fitness level.


Pilates develops core strength - better posture


The core muscles of the body are the deep muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvic floor. These are the muscles we heavily rely on to support a strong and supple back, good posture, and efficient movement patterns. Pilates exercises focus heavily on the control and strength of your core. By having a strong core, the frame of your body is supported. This means the neck and shoulder can relax, and the rest of the muscles and joints need not overcompensate due to the lack of body support.


Pilates promotes weight loss and long, lean appearance


Pilates is known for creating long, strong muscles and a leaner look. Pilates improves muscle tone, balances musculature, supports beautiful posture, and teaches you to move with ease and grace. Along with aerobic exercises, Pilates becomes a prime weight loss and body toning tool.


Now that you are aware of the benefits of Pilates, it's time for you to decide if it's something worth doing!



Should I do Pilates?


Pilates, similar to yoga both focus on the mind-muscle connection. Pilates can be very effective not just in helping you have toner and stronger muscles, it also makes your muscles function more efficiently because you have greater control over it.


Having greater efficiency in muscles is important almost for everyone. For professional athletes, weight lifters, or an average joe, having greater efficiency in muscles means a greater range of motion, efficient energy use, and therefore leading to greater performance.

Greater flexibility from Pilates can also reduce injury from activities. Daily activities included, such as lifting a heavy box from the ground.


So in short, yes you should do Pilates because Pilates can help you achieve greater flexibility and muscle efficiency which could help us in our daily lives.

For beginners, it is always better to have a well trained professional guide you to prevent injury but if you feel confident about giving it a try, there are many youtube channels that provide Pilates tips and exercises which you can follow, but please do them with precaution! It is still best to consult a professional when starting off and there are many classes out there offering Pilates classes

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