Pilates

Pilates is a method of body conditioning that was developed nearly a hundred years ago in Germany by Joseph H. Pilates. It is unique because, unlike other forms of exercise, the technique works on strengthening, lengthening and toning muscles as well as improving posture and increasing flexibility and balance. This leads to a leaner, stronger and more streamlined physique.

The real beauty of Pilates is that once you have mastered the exercises you can use the technique in all areas of your life because they not only make you stronger but also teach you to become aware of your body and how you use it.

Pilates shows you how to breathe and relax properly, which is essential for anyone who feels stressed out by their daily life.

The Pilates method is taught to suit each person and exercises are regularly re-evaluated to ensure they are appropriate for that person. Due to individual attentions, this method can suit everybody from elite athletes to people with limited mobility and people with low fitness levels.

A typical Pilates workout includes a number of exercises and stretches. Each exercise is performed with attention to proper breathing techniques and abdominal muscles control. The quality of each posture is more important than the number of repetition or how energetically you can move.

Researchers have discovered that the regular practice of Pilates may produce many health benefits including increasing muscle strength and tone, particularly of the abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and buttocks (the core muscles)

- enhanced muscular control of the back and limbs

- improved stabilisation of the spine

- improved posture,

- improved flexibility,

- rehabilitation or prevention of injuries related to muscle imbalance

- improved physical coordination and balance

- relaxation of the shoulders, neck and upper back

- safe rehabilitation of joint and spinal injuries

- prevention of musculoskeletal injuries

- increased lung capacity and circulation through deep breathing

- increased concentration and body awareness

- enhanced stress management and relaxation.

Although Pilates is a low-impact form of exercises, if you haven’t exercises for a long time or have pre-existing medical condition, you should check with your doctor before starting any regular exercise rutine.