What is pilates?

It is a type of exercise that focuses on improving flexibility, strength, and body awareness through controlled movements. It was created in the 1920s by German physical trainer Joseph Pilates for rehabilitation purposes.

His method was influenced by other forms of exercise, including gymnastics and boxing, According to Kingswell, Dancers and soldiers returning from war were among the first people to take advantage of the practice.

Pilates moves tend to focus on core activation with combinations like toe taps, leg extensions and abdominal curls. Kingswell notes that you’ll see these movements worked in every session, he adds. You really feel open, energized and tall.” Classes can be done without equipment using just your own body weight, but you can add weights and resistance bands once you have a stronger foundation.

Why is Pilates used?

Everyone can practice Pilates, including members over the age of 70 or older. It is a sustainable practice and can be done continuously for the rest of your life unlike high intensity workouts (think interval training), The low-impact nature of Pilates has the maximum benefit, Kingswell recommends that beginners take two to three servings per week. Along with a thirty-minute walk. For more of a challenge, ramp up to four or five sessions per week.

How is pilates different from yoga?

Some aspects of Pilates are similar to yoga. But there are some notable differences, Although both exercises focus on mindfulness, However, the latter focuses more on meditation and relaxation. While the former prioritizes the actual exercises that get the core work done.

Movement is also a major difference in yoga. stay in certain positions for a long time, Pilates is characterized by shorter sets with fewer repetitions.

However, there are some similarities between these two processes. Both Pilates and yoga use moves that strengthen the core and improve strength, balance, flexibility, and posture.

another belief they share, mind-body connection, Both forms increase awareness of the body and breath to keep you strong and centered. Breathing is very important in a Pilates class. As it is the basis of the heart and the fluidity of the individual in movement, “Controlled breathing activates the heart and then movement begins,” Kingswell notes.

when you do this, You get a lot more exercise and a deeper connection to your body.

The Six Principles of Pilates?

There are six principles of Pilates, Three summarize the philosophy of the Pilates method

Positioning:

is the practice of raising your awareness to the center of your body, the area between the lower ribs and the pubic bone,

This central area of the core powers all Pilates exercises.

the focus:

By focusing on each exercise with your full attention, You will achieve maximum results from every move.

the control:

Total muscle control requires conscious, deliberate movement and is emphasized in every Pilates exercise.

Precision :

Constant awareness ensures that every movement is precise. This means the proper placement of each part of the body. and focus on proper alignment and core movement.

breathing:

Joseph Pilates advocated using the lungs to pump the air with full force, inside and outside the body, All Pilates exercises are proportional to the breathing movement because breathing is an integral part of the method.

the flow:

Pilates exercises are not meant to be rigid. Fluidity, grace and ease are applied to every movement, The idea is that the energy of the exercise being performed, From the central “energy center” that connects every part of the body to move, in one fluid motion, Pilates equipment such as the Reformer is a great indicator of flow since it works best when the practitioner makes precise, fluid movements.

Types of Pilates:

Pilates is generally divided into two categories of exercises that use a mat, exercises that use special equipment, (device). Pilates exercise equipment is also separated. Depending on the size and whether they can be used in the studio or at home.

Large equipment is usually found in a Pilates studio. Some types of machines use pulleys with additional resistance from the participant’s body weight with graduated levels of springs. There is also small equipment in the studio but it can be easily purchased and practiced at home.

hardware:

Large Equipment (machine) The reformer is probably the most famous resistance piece of equipment you’ll encounter in a Pilates studio. The types developed by Joseph Pilates include the tower, which is connected to the repairman in the studio. Other shapes of the tower are designed to hang on the door of the house, used cadillac, Also known as a trapeze, Usually in private sessions in Pilates studios because they require a lot of instruction, Other great equipment inside the studio includes a Pilates chair and ladder barrel.

Small equipment:

Small pieces of Pilates equipment are often used while working out on the mat. to add resistance or develop balance, This includes dumbbells, resistance bands, different sizes of exercise balls, different sizes of exercise balls, tennis ball, therapy ball, pilates ring, or magic circle, It is another innovation developed by Joseph Pilates.

What are the health benefits of Pilates:

Pilates’ affirmations of core strength have many documented health benefits. Your abdominal muscles are the front anchors of your spine. If it is weak, your back will rely on other parts of the body for stability. which can cause you pain and make you more susceptible to infection, In addition to benefiting from your back and posture, This type of fitness promotes movement. Pilates exercises also lengthen and strengthen your muscles. “Pilates is great for strengthening and sculpting your muscles,” says Kingswell. Your posture and alignment also improve dramatically as you become strong, flexible and outgoing.

Some may wonder if Pilates helps to increase height!

using pilates, You cannot necessarily increase your height by increasing the length of your bones. In principle, Pilates or any sport or medicine that can be promoted, you can’t be long, Height is determined by your genes.

However, since Pilates works to strengthen weak muscles, It helps to increase flexibility. Which increases the distance between your vertebrae and thus you will appear longer.

Overall, it is an experience that deserves attention and appreciation.

Written by: Siba Babi

Sources:

wikipedia

webmd