What is Pilates

Lot of people in their endeavor to stay fit, take up fitness training regimens like cardiovascular exercise and weight training. Some who don't opt for these conventional forms of staying fit go for alternate techniques like Tai Bo, Kickboxing, Pilates, etc. Tai Bo is a combination of aerobics and martial arts moves, kickboxing routines are a combination of kicks and punches, but what about Pilates? Well, Pilates is a very popular form of exercise regimen which concentrates on strengthening the core muscles with the help of fitness equipment. The philosophy behind the routine is that mental well-being is connected to the physical well-being, thus it is important to be physically fit to deal with life's ups and downs.

Most people categorize Pilates as a form of cardiovascular routine because it does not involve lifting weights, although it increases the heart rate. Pilates exercises are performed under the watchful eye of an expert instructor. The routine concentrates mainly on strengthening muscles in the back, abdomen, buttocks, and hips. These are the core muscles of the body and are responsible for stability and movement. Pilates for abs will help you develop core strength.

Breathing has a lot of importance in this training routine, as it is considered to be the link between the body and the mind. Oxygen is important for the development and strengthening of the tissues and muscles, so breathing correctly is important. The range of motion and the movements in the routine dictate that the practitioner uses full concentration when doing these exercises. As there is no use of free weights, effectiveness of the routine depends on following correct form and technique. Fitness equipment used for Pilates are specially designed for resistance training, things like Wunda Chair, Spine Corrector, Ladder Barrel, etc are used in training. There are some selective Pilates exercises at home which can be done with just an exercise mat.

Benefits

One of the biggest benefits of Pilates exercises is that it improves the body awareness of the practitioners and helps build coordination. Pilates uses graceful movements and flow which help strengthen the stabilizer muscles and balance of the body. It helps you tone the body by helping you develop strong lean muscles and flexible spine. The range of motion used in the routines will help you increase mobility and core stamina. These exercises are helpful to people from all backgrounds and age groups, it does not matter if you are a desk jockey or an athlete, young or old. The routine will help you develop a good posture and give you increased levels of energy.

Pilates uses the breath to increase concentration levels, it involves inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. Those who want to know what is the difference between yoga and Pilates exercises, one of the difference is Pilates concentrates on developing the core muscles, yoga is more of a lifestyle practice. Pilates is known to balance musculature and give practitioners graceful movement. Practicing Pilates regularly with correct diet will also assist your weight loss goals. It also helps relieve stress and give you greater freedom of movement in the joints.

Pilates is mostly about balanced movement, concentration, rhythm and breathing to tone the body with resistance training.