Pilates |
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a system of controlled exercises, which engages the mind while simultaneously conditioning the body. It is a balanced blend of strength and flexibility movements which helps to improve posture, reduce stress and create long, lean muscles without bulking up.
The focus is on stabilising the core (the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region) while engaging in mobilisation, endurance and stamina exercises which challenge your core and increase mobility of your joints.
The focus is on quality of movement rather than quantity as Pilates is a personal journey not a competitive sport. You will leave a Pilates class feeling invigorated rather than exhausted.
Pilates takes a balanced approach so that no muscle group is overworked and the body works as an efficient, holistic system to support you in your daily activities. Pilates' exercises can be performed on a mat, on specialized equipment such as a Reformer, or with props such as resistance bands, Swiss balls and resistance circles.
The Pilates principle is to exercise while maintaining mind-body connection. ensuring, the exercise becomes more effective. Incorporating physical, mental and spiritual aspects helps to create and maintain a healthy and fit body.
Pilates will help you build strength in your muscles and will improve your flexibility.
When practiced over time, Pilates will help to increase your muscle strength and give your body better definition. You will have a longer leaner look, without the bulk. Pilates is the perfect combination exercise for stretching and strengthening your body.
Working at computers, sitting down for most of the day and even carrying your children on your hips can lead to poor posture. Carrying your briefcase or shoulder bag on the same side affects your posture and can lead to imbalances in the symmetry of your body.
Movements where you favour one particular side of your body create patterns of behaviour in your body which affects muscle balance, posture and leads to aches and pains.
Pilates' exercises help to rebalance your muscles for better body alignment, and in doing so improves your posture.
What age group is Pilates for?
Pilates is beneficial for all ages, fitness levels, body shapes and sizes, and can be adapted, modified and customized for individual needs. Pilates is more about fitness conditioning than age, so with regular practice and focus you can achieve fantastic results over time.
One's age, body shape or previous abilities doesn't limit one's movement capabilities - sometimes a 75 year old can perform contortions with their body while a 19 year old finds it a challenge to touch their toes.
Pilates is not about keeping up with the person next to you, it is about your own journey and your personal connection to your body.
How often can I do Pilates?
It would be fantastic to work out 2-4 times a week, taking a day off in between sessions to rest or enjoy some kind of cardiovascular activity (walking, bicycling, swimming.). however, most of us have employment, families and other activities that require our time. So if you can take time for yourself and participate in a class once a week, this is a great way to start practicing Pilates.
Eventually you may want to participate in more than one class a week or workout to a video at home and this kind of regular, consistent practice will help you make the mind-body connection and integrate the various Pilates principles into your daily life.
Can I do Pilates if I'm pregnant?
Generally speaking, moderate exercise is safe throughout a normal, healthy pregnancy and many gentle stretching and strengthening Pilates' exercises are appropriate.
To be safe during pregnancy, only practice Pilates under the guidance of a professional Pilates' instructor who has knowledge and experience in teaching pregnant women.
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In the news
BBC London
Pilates Technique
Although it has only recently become popular,
Pilates has been around since the 1930s when it was introduced
by Joseph Pilates.
It's also known as body control and,
by realigning and correcting poor body posture, aims to
teach people how to use their muscles more efficiently.
Practising the Pilates technique of stretching and strength-building
exercises can enhance a person's athletic performance by
making their posture more stable.
It's not aerobic, but uses a lot of mat work and deep abdominal
work to achieve total body conditioning. Many people are
introduced to Pilates when they have an injury as part of
their treatment.
The exercises performed are gentle, but
this doesn't mean you don't need to make an effort. After
a good class, you'll still feel that you've done a good
workout.
It's very good for people suffering with chronic health
problems, such as long-standing low back pain.
It's also
good for relieving the stresses of everyday life, offering
a chance to relax and focus while doing your body some good...more
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