What is Pilates? What can I expect from a class? What are the benefits of Pilates? Find the answers to your Pilates questions here.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of exercise that help to develop core abdominal strength, spinal mobility, flexibility, and to correct posture and faulty movement patterns. The goal of Pilates is to train the body to move with ease and efficiency by developing balanced muscles.
Each Pilates exercise will incorporate these five principles:
- Placement & Stability of the Pelvis
- Placement & Stability of the Ribcage
- Placement & Stability of the Shoulders
- Placement of the Head & Neck
- The Breath
All of these principles combined, allow the body to work through the exercises in correct postural alignment, and will help restore strength, flexibility, and functionality to the joints and muscles. A Pilates class focuses on developing controlled, precise movements to target muscle groups effectively and maximize the benefits of your workout. Pilates classes can use both special equipment and apparatus, or simply use you and a mat, and are a fun, challenging workout.
Who should do Pilates?
Everyone! The Pilates method is adaptable to any body type and fitness level. It is low-impact on the joints, and is a safe, effective way to strengthen the entire body. Anyone, from elite athletes to people recovering from injuries or chronic medical conditions, can benefit and see results from the Pilates method.
What are the benefits of Pilates?
With a regular Pilates practice, you can expect to:
- Gain core strength and stability
- Gain relief from back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Improve posture
- Develop flatter, stronger abdominals
- Heighten body awareness
- Improve flexibility
- Improve balance and coordination
- Develop long, lean muscles less prone to injury