Look at any gym today or read about any celebrity about their workout routine, and chances are you will hear about Pilates.
But what exactly is Pilates?
Originally developed as an exercise programme for injured soldiers, and then dancers, Pilates is a type of exercise designed to strengthen the body and deliver long, lean muscles. Many people use Pilates to help prevent injuries as it is low impact, and often forms part of the advised recovery programmes when getting back into exercise following an injury. The goal is to strengthen the body, particularly emphazing core strength. Much like Yoga, Pilates also emphases your posture and helps improve balance and flexibility. There is also a strong mind/body connection and a great deal of breathing involved in Pilates.
One of the great things about Pilates is that so many people with so many different fitness levels can do this form of exercise. It can either be a gentle training program focussing on flexibility and slight strengthening – or a much more strenuous workout.
Pilates is also proven to help limit your stress levels; it gives you a real endorphin buzz, so aside from looking great you will also feel fantastic. By providing you with a stronger frame for everyday functional movements.
If you have health conditions it can be tailored to your needs, which is the joy of Pilates. It is suitable for everybody, and can meet you where you are, whether that’s a beginner or an advanced athlete!