Benefits of Pilates

Fitness
on June 7, 2011

The Pilates Method Alliance describes Pilates as “a method of exercise and physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen and balance the body.” This method of exercise is arguably one of the most popular in the world today, with certified teachers across the globe and classes widely available for every fitness level. The method was developed throughout the life of Joseph Pilates, who offered invaluable insight into how the human body should move, and whose equipment and methods came into wide use for fitness and rehabilitation.

Improve core strength. Above all other objectives in Pilates, toning the core muscles (primarily the abdominal muscles and gluts) is key. This is where balance and bodily control is achieved, which is the primary benefit of the strength exercises done in Pilates. With proper balance and control, movement becomes easier and smoother meaning joints suffer less impact and activity is far more pleasant.

Better body image. One of the primary focuses in Pilates is toning and shaping all major muscles, with astounding results in body shape. You may have discovered that no matter how much weight you lose, you’re still not happy with the results. In many cases, the problem isn’t excess fat but rather the lack of the muscle tone that will give you the shape you really want. In addition, certain types of exercise (such as walking) can bunch up your muscles, making them less flexible and looking bulkier. Pilates’ lengthening exercises will stretch these muscles out to not only improve flexibility, but also give your body an overall slim and sleek look.

Feel better. As with many other exercises, Pilates has numerous benefits in giving an overall feeling of well-being. In addition, regular exercise will give you more energy as your circulation improves, which in turn improves oxygen levels and your body’s ability to eliminate toxins from your blood stream and tissues. Because Pilates encourages moving smoothly and in a way that’s natural to your body, aches and pains often dissipate, and the impact on your joints will greatly decrease. Pilates is for people of all fitness levels and all ages and is an excellent way to begin seeing very fast fitness results.

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