We may tend to think Of Pilates as some new kind of exercise craze, but its humble origins date back to the early twentieth century when Joseph Pilates devised some exercises in Germany which were specifically for dancers.
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is a series of exercises that combine concentration, balance, deep breathing and body strength with effective stretching and movement. This provides a full body workout and plenty of healthy benefits, let me highlight a few of the key benefits of doing Pilates.
Key Benefits Of Pilates
1. Builds Core Strength
Your core muscles are some of the most important in your body and provide vital support to your spine. They are the deep internal muscles in your abdomen and back and help promote good posture and healthy movement, taking the pressure off other parts of the body such as your shoulders and neck. Pilates works and develops your core muscles, increasing overall body strength and freeing up the rest of your body to function efficiently.
2. Suitable For Everyone
We can all benefit from good posture, greater flexibility and supple muscles, and the great thing is that Pilates is suitable for everyone. You do not need a high level of fitness to start, and Pilates does not put extreme stress on the body. Everyone from children to the elderly can benefit form Pilates.
3. A Full Body Workout
Pilates provides you with a full body workout, as it trains and develops the whole body (not just specific muscle groups). It improves strength, balance, flexibility and movement for your whole body as well as relaxing and refreshing your mind. Pilates will have your mind and body working in perfect harmony, providing a state of health that is hard to attain anywhere else.
4. Better Flexibility
Stretching is a huge part of Pilates, and the more you stretch safely then the more flexible and supple your body will become. This will promote better movement within the joints. This will mean less strain on your core muscles and a lot less aches and pains, Pilates really can provide total body fitness.
5. Builds Lean Muscle Mass
If you are looking for flatter abs, a solid stomach and a more toned body, then Pilates can certainly give you this. Building muscle mass will also raise your metabolism (as muscle burns calories a lot faster than body fat), allowing you to lose weight or maintain a healthy body weight. It also gives you a slimmer and leaner appearance.
6. Improved Mental Well-Being
Pilates does not only provide physical health benefits, it promotes improved mental well-being as well. Pilates integrates body and mind, as total focus, deep breathing and concentration are key ingredients. Pilates is a great way to connect with your inner-self, find calm, peace and reduce stress levels.
Take the plunge and give Pilates a go, join a class and get some professional guidance. Once you become more experienced, you can practice it at home as well with a book or DVD. Go ahead and harness the power of Pilates.
