What Exactly Is Pilates?

Pilates is a technique that was invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, almost seventy years ago to focus on improvement of strength and flexibility of the whole body. This exercise program is so popular that many celebrities, Hollywood stars and even legendary dancers have used it to perform to the best of their professional ability. Due to this, more and more people are interested to experience the benefits of Pilates which is basically a series of movements that are controlled in a manner to engage the body and mind of the exerciser.

Training Movements

Pilates includes training movements of strength, that involve coordinated techniques of breathing. This exercise routine focuses on the strengthening of the abs and buttocks. The exercises under this program are specifically designed to optimize the flexibility of the body, posture improvement and muscle strengthening. The exercises under this program are made for the maintenance of the body. The Pilates system is a physical fitness program that is also named as the art of contrology because it encourages the employment of the mind for controlling the muscles.

Exercises of Control

Pilates incorporates more than 500 exercises of control, that condition and tone the body and engage the mind through the specially designed exercises. Sometimes, the exercises include machines and stretches. The system is the most invaluable not only for the users but also for the trainers. It is an exercising and physical movement technique that intends to strengthen, balance, and stretch the body. Pilates can work with several groups of muscles, if specific exercises are done with focused patterns of breathing, through continuous smooth motions.

Technique of Concentration

Pilates uses the technique of concentration for stabilizing and strengthening the body from the core. It focuses on the movement quality that makes the exerciser feel refreshed after the session, rather than the quantity that leaves the person feeling tired. The program has an approach that is balanced towards the working of the groups of muscles, so that they are not overworked, awakens the mind from the possibility of exhaustion after exercise and enables the body to work efficiently.

Why Pilates Works well.

Pilates is extremely fruitful if practiced loyally and consistently. Here is how it works well: 1. The bodys core strength, balance and posture are increased heartily. 2. The circulation and capacity of the lungs are increased through the techniques of deep breathing. 3. The density of bones and health of joints are improved, as the mind becomes more familiar and aware of the body within. 4. The key components of an efficient program of Pilates are flexibility and strength, of the back and abdomen muscles particularly, and coordination of both mind and muscle.

There are in all five major Pilates moves, namely the hundred, one leg circle, roll up, and the one leg stretch.

Though Pilates is highly recommended by most fitness trainers, it is always better to consult a physician before an exercising system is started.