Why Pilates?

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on balance, flexibility and graceful movement. A man named Joseph Pilates first formed these exercises in the 1920's. The form of exercise was originally used in rehabilitation of veterans that were hurt during wartime. In the past 5 years this form of exercise has gained popularity all over the United States and is the buzz in many exercise gyms nationwide! What exactly is Pilates and what are the benefits you may be wondering. I will explain it all to you!

Pilates is a stretching and toning program. The program works from the core of your body outward. The core of your body focuses on your abdominal muscles as well as your back muscles. The idea behind Pilates is that if your core abdominal muscles are strong and tone, the rest of your body will be able to follow their lead. The purpose of practicing Pilates is to allow for free and graceful movement among all your body parts.

Pilates are based on six principles: centering, control, flow, breath, precision and concentration. Combing these 6 principles is the key to a quality Pilate's workout. Pilates emphasizes quality of movement over quantity of movement and for this reason a Pilate workout can be very short in time. You do not need to do Pilates for an hour to feel the results, but workouts are often broken up into 10-15 minutes segments. Centering your body while having complete control over your muscles is a key in Pilates. The rate of movement is generally very slow and controlled. Your inhales and exhales of breathing are matched with movements of your body. Every exercise done in Pilates will be working toward toning your core abdominal muscles as well as another key body segment. The segments are split into, bun, thighs, shoulders, arms and of course your waistline! Following a Pilate's workout there is usually an intense stretching program that challenges you to lengthen every muscle throughout your body.

The benefits of Pilates are so great to a person of any age or sex. Stretching and toning muscles you never knew you had will greatly increase your metabolism and strengthen your complete body. The exercises are very low impact so the wear and tear on your body is very minimal. The exercises can be done in the privacy of your own home as well. Throughout the exercise routine your heart rate will be increased as blood flow is increased to meet the needs of your muscles. These benefits combine to allow for an excellent workout to maximize your time and efforts. No special equipment is needed for Pilates, but you may want to invest is hand weights and a non-slip exercise mat.

If you have never tried Pilates, I would highly encourage purchasing a video or signing up for a class at your local gym. The results are seen very quickly, and your body will be feeling more tone than ever! All your friends