An Introduction to Pilates

Pilates is a type of exercise that has seen great rise in popularity in recent years. Pilates was created by Joseph H Pilates (who would've guessed?) in the early 1900s. Pilates was first done using a series of machines that are designed to stretch the body in certain ways.

Pilates can also be done without the help of any expensive or complicated machines. In fact, it can just be done with the use of a floor mat. Pilates often focuses on the “core” muscles which are around your midsection. Pilates aims to tone and strengthen the body’s muscles without adding bulk.

Anyone can practice Pilates since it is low impact and gentle on the body. Even pregnant women can typically practice some form of Pilates, although they should do so under strict supervision and only after consulting a qualified physician. Pilates can be done anywhere from an expensive studio with all the machines to a fitness class using only a floor mat, or even in the comfort of your home.

Pilates is very versatile and can be modifying to fit into almost everyone’s fitness levels, though it is generally not as useful for the more advanced people (but if you're reading this, you're probably not in that category). It can even be beneficial for athletes.

There are many benefits to Pilates since it is such a low impact workout. Pilates works to strengthen your body’s muscles, particularly your core muscles. These primarily include your abs, obliques and back (basically your midsection), as well as your legs in some of the exercises.

Pilates can help to align your body and make the body lithe and flexible. Pilates also helps you to learn to breathe full breathes (most of us tend to breathe shorter, quicker breaths as we get older – watch a baby breathe and then watch how you breathe. You'll probably see a huge difference) and can be very relaxing, despite the often intense workout your muscles are getting. Regardless of your fitness level, it is important that you take any Pilates instructions very seriously and follow them exactly. Proper form is vital in a successful Pilates practice.

If you are new to Pilates getting a good understanding of how it works and what benefits you can expect to see are very important. If you belong to a gym or health club, most offer some type of Pilates class or private instruction. Getting instruction from an experienced instructor is important since the positioning of the body is very important in Pilates. If you prefer to do your Pilates practice at home there are hundreds of videos you can buy or rent that show a complete Pilates workout.

Always start with a beginner Pilates workout even if you feel you have a more advanced fitness level since Pilates can often work muscles that you may not be used to. Be careful and gentle with your body. You should also remember to always discuss any new fitness regimen with your doctor before beginning.