Pilates 101

Should Pilates become a part of your workout regime? There are some definite advantages.

I first heard about Pilates 4-5 years ago and how celebrities were using it as a part of their workout to strengthen and lengthen their bodies. What exactly is Pilates and what does it do?

Pilates is a non-impact physical fitness system developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany . It focuses on stretching and strengthening the core muscle groups of the abdominals and lower back, with an emphasis on proper breathing.

Pilates Equipment

Pilates Reformer founded by Joseph Pilates is a machine that utilizes a platform that moves back and forth along a carriage. The user’s body weight acts as the resistance.

Pilates Chair also founded by Pilates is a box with one side that can be pressed down against the resistance of springs, like a large pedal. There is a modern version of the Pilates Chair known as the Malibu Pilates. This chair has become so popular because it is marketed for home use. There are other manufacturers such as Peak Pilates, Balanced Body and others that have introduced a more streamlined version of the Pilates Chair that is used in many health clubs.

Mats are used in Pilates. The difference between the mats used for Yoga is that the Pilates mat is thicker. If you are attending a Pilates class, chances are you will be provided with a mat. For your Pilates workout at home, you may want to invest in a Pilates Mat. They come in a range of sizes and colors.

Exercise or resistance bands can add light resistance to a Pilates workout.

Pilates has traditionally been performed using more modern versions of the Pilates Chairs or Reformers. However, many health clubs are beginning to use mats.

7 Benefits of Pilates

1. Gives women a nice lean look build without bulking up
2. Strengthens your core - the abdominal and back muscles
3. Improves your posture and blood circulation
4. Increases flexibility and decreases likelihood of muscle injury
5. Reduces stress by proper breathing
6. Helps reduce muscle stiffness by improving flexibility through deep stretching
7. Relieves back pain and joint stress.

Many chiropractors recommend Pilates for the strengthening of the spine and back. In fact, you will find many chiropractic and Pilates centers throughout the United States. With chiropractic focusing on the treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the muscles system, with emphasis on the spine, the two go hand in hand.

Dress comfortably during your Pilates workout and not wearing shoes is helpful also. Because Pilates involves deep stretching, do not force yourself into difficult positions to early.

You will become more limber and flexible with continued workouts. As with any exercise, you want to avoid injury.

Pilates is a great way become more limber and to develop a longer leaner look. Because it is low aerobic, you may want to also include adding a cardio workout to your routine also for optimum results. Gaiam is an excellent company that offers Pilates equipment and DVDs that can provide helpful information about Pilates so that you will be able to maximize your workout regime. Have fun!