Pilates is an exercise discipline that concentrates on developing the body's core postural muscles to promote the good support and alignment of the spine. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th Century, the work out regimen is designed to lengthen, strengthen and increase the flexibility of these muscles, which may help stop and/or lessen back pain.
The Pilates routine in constructed on seven "Pilates Principles," which include:
* correct Alignment
* Breathing
* Centering
* attentiveness
* Control
* Precision
* Fluidity of Motion
Joseph Pilates thought that by following these principles, practitioners of the plan, which he originally called Contrology, could harvest the rewards of better flexibility, strength, body awareness, energy and improved mental attentiveness.
Pilates is an very flexible system. Many movements are planned to be performed on a soft mat on the floor; others must be done on specialized resistance gear that both challenges the body and offers support. movements may be done either in a group setting or alone, and the actions may be customized to account for varying fitness levels, or to stay away from injury or for rehabilitative purposes. Movements are performed in a specific sequence; only a few repetitions of each are required, with an emphasis on proper breathing, transition and form. Learner students characteristically learn the basics, adding new exercises as their abilities and stamina develops.
Most Pilates lessons, predominantly those offered in local gyms and fitness studios, focus on "mat work," which consists of about 40 different actions performed while lying on your back, side, or stomach, or while kneeling or sitting. Most mat exercises involve holding your upper body tightly in place while moving your arms and legs in different directions, working the core muscles of your body while using your own weight for resistance. Some Pilates mat lessons incorporate extra gear such as hand weights, medicine balls or work out bands into the actions for additional resistance.
Pilates and yoga are similar in that both focus on breathing and the precise execution of controlled movements; both also build strength and flexibility. There are a number of differences, though, both in philosophy and practice:
* Pilates mainly concentrates on cultivating core strength in the body and lengthening the spine. Yoga aims to work the body equally and unite the body with mind and spirit.
* Yoga tends to incorporate more statically held poses, where Pilates involves more movement and repetitions.
* Breathing and concentration are primary to both practices; though, the difference is that Pilates instructs one to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth; while in yoga, one is taught to inhale and exhale through the nose only.
* Yoga has many different styles, but all are usually performed in a group setting on a yoga mat with the aid of a yoga instructor. Pilates has a full complement of mat work, but also incorporates work on the Pilates machines.
To help you find a qualified Pilates teacher or plan, here are some general guidelines, questions and information to consider:
* Are the teachers trained through a comprehensive training program?
* Did that training plan require a written and practical test, lecture, observation, practice and apprentice hours?
* How many total hours were spent in the training program? (The Pilates Method is a knowledge based method of work out and training. Time spent in certification training produces skilled teachers.)
* Does the trainer have any other movement related teaching experience?
* How long have the instructors been teaching Pilates?
* What is the trainer's/ studio's philosophy and specialty? Are they able to handle individual needs, injuries and rehabilitation?
* Does the instructor or studio teach the full repertoire of Pilates on all pieces of apparatus?
As with any exercise routine, check with your physician before enrolling in your first Pilates class, particularly if you are suffering from back pain or have a spinal condition that has already been diagnosed. Your medical doctor can determine whether Pilates is an appropriate form of exercise for you, and it's critical that you rely on his or her judgment.
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