What is Pilates?
Pilates is a movement system designed to create strength, flexibility, and an increased mind-body connection. It's particularly effective at developing strong back and core muscles, which are essential for good balance and proper posture. The foundations of the method include centering (or moving from your core), concentration, precision, breathing, and control to establish a healthy body from the inside out. There is an emphasis on alignment and proper form so all muscles are worked in a balanced, safe way. This focus on core strengthening and postural alignment helps participants alleviate and prevent back, neck, and joint pain.
What makes Pilates different from other workouts?
In Pilates, muscles are worked from a lengthened position (eccentric contraction), which creates the long, lean look that is so characteristic of pilates and dancer bodies. In traditional exercise, the muscles are constantly working in a concentric, or shortened position. Both kinds of muscle contractions are needed for a strong and healthy body so combining Pilates with other forms of physical activity is a great way to balance out any fitness regimen. In addition, Pilates tends to work into the deeper, smaller, stabilizer muscle groups that other workouts often neglect. Pilates is also unique in its versatility- it can be tailored to any fitness level from elite athletes to pregnant women and those recovering from injuries.
Why should you practice Pilates?
Practicing pilates regularly leads to increased body awareness, which will affect the way you carry yourself in your daily life and in sporting activities. You'll sit up straighter, lift things properly, and feel taller, longer, and leaner. Your aches and pains will start to disappear as your flexibility and strength increase. Your golf game might improve, you'll feel more connected to your body and feel an overall sense of well-being. Who doesn't want more of that?