7 reasons to try Pilates today
Pilates was developed in the early twentieth century by the German Joseph (drumroll…) Pilates! Would you have thought? It didn't take long for the new fitness craze to spread to the United States and the United Kingdom. The exercises aim to strengthen the body by strengthening the core muscles, improving posture, straightening the spine, and various stretches.
Pilates is based on six core principles: concentration, control, centering, flow, precision, and breathing.
If we manage to master these six things, we can say that we are good at Pilates. Breathing is the most important – full inhalation and powerful exhalation significantly contribute to the development of the abdominal muscles.
Pilates is an extremely precise and controlled form of movement, so it is much more effective if we work slowly, paying attention to performing the exercises correctly. Most Pilates groups adhere to this principle – progress is slow, but much more effective than just rushing through the exercises. Pilates starts from the center of the body – the abdomen, hips, back, inner thighs, and glutes. If we focus on these areas, our entire body will strengthen.
Results are visible after just the first few sessions – Pilates won't make us look like bodybuilders, but rather give us a leaner, yet strong musculature. It's no wonder that Pilates is very popular among celebrities – Gwyneth Paltrow is also a big fan.
Let's see why Pilates is so good!
1. An excellent method for muscle toning.
When we think of muscle building, weightlifting immediately comes to mind – but what if we don't want to look bigger? In this case, Pilates is the solution. Slow, controlled movements help sculpt muscles without enlarging them. We will feel the effects after just the first Pilates class, especially in the abdominal area. And if we manage to commit to going to a class once or twice a week, the results will quickly become visible.
2. Low-impact exercise.
Everyone thinks of yoga first, but why not try Pilates? It is perfectly safe even for expectant mothers, and thanks to its slow movements, it is also ideal for the elderly. It doesn't matter what your fitness level is, as you can adjust the workout to your own pace. Forget running and yoga – this season is all about Pilates!
3. Strengthens the core muscles.
Back and shoulder pain can make even the smallest movements hell, so it's good news that Pilates offers a solution for this too. It doesn't work like a painkiller tablet that merely masks the pain – Pilates strengthens the abdominal and back muscles, thus improving our posture, and correct posture eliminates pain. Not only will our stomach be flatter, but we will also be healthier!
4. Increases flexibility.
It's no coincidence that gymnasts and skaters swear by Pilates. For them, it provides the necessary flexibility to perform their hair-raising stunts, but it can help us too. Although we will probably never go from a backflip into a split (with all due respect to the exceptions), we too will become more flexible through Pilates. If we are persistent, we can experience fantastic progress.
5. Boosts energy levels.
All types of exercise stimulate endorphin production, but Pilates also has a positive effect on blood circulation. What does this mean? Muscles will work harder, breathing will become easier, and our focus will increase. Although there's no such thing as too much exercise, thanks to the positive effects of Pilates, we can easily become addicted – the more we exercise, the better we feel.
6. Perfects posture.
Pilates helps improve balance and posture. Pilates is life-changing for those who constantly stumble, drop things, etc. Pilates exercises strengthen the spine, and although we won't actually grow taller, we will feel taller, which can do wonders for our self-confidence.
7. A sound mind in a sound body.
Pilates is a perfect method for relaxation and stress relief. Let's face it, who wouldn't need a little peace and quiet in this constantly rushing world? During Pilates, there are no obligations, no stress, just the body, mind, and movements. If we dedicate half an hour to Pilates at the end of a long day, we will feel fresher and more energetic.