Ask anyone who has tried Pilates what they think of it, and chances are they will tell you how wonderful it is. Besides allowing one to unwind from a stressful day, the physical benefits of this form of exercise are astounding. Increased muscle control, build up of a strong set of core muscles, and precise focus on the toning of individual muscles groups are just a few examples of how Pilates can change your life.
Pilates was first developed by Joseph Pilates during the First World War as a way to improve the rehabilitation program for returning veterans. Based on the idea of "mind over matter", Joseph Pilates originally called this method "Contrology" because he believed his method uses the mind to control the muscles. Joseph Pilates strongly believed that mental and physical health is essential to one another. He recommended a few precise movements emphasizing control and form to help soldiers regain their health by strengthening, stretching, and stabilizing key muscles. The Pilates Method has since been further developed and, while no one can agree on which specific method is correct, it is now available in a variety of forms.
The only drawback of "Contrology"
With all of the physical and mental benefits of doing Pilates, there really is only one drawback: the price. Pilates instruction can be costly. Instructors justify costs based on the cost of equipment, studio rental, and their expensive education. The good news is that those who take Pilates classes are being instructed by someone with extensive training and qualifications. However, the high cost is still difficult for many to justify.
Enjoying the Benefits of Pilates at Home
The Pilates Stick Portable Body Sculpting System was invented by physiologist and longtime personal trainer Charles Blount. Training in Los Angeles, Blount witnessed first-hand the growing popularity of Pilates and watched it expand from the wealthy to the masses. Finding that traditional Pilates equipment was expensive and space-consuming, he began developing the Pilates Stick to give him fresh ways to work with his clients. The result of Blount's hard work is a device that can give a challenging workout to practically anyone, enabling users to achieve the enviable bodies they constantly see on celebrities without spending thousands of dollars on classes.
The PilatesStick features covered resistance tubing, an engraved, lathed, and finished wood dowel along fleece covered foot attachments allowing users to do 95% of the exercises done using traditional Pilates equipment, such as the Cadillac and the Reformer. It can be attached to gym equipment to give trainers a less expensive and more space efficient tool for instructing their clients, or it can be shut in a door at home using the foam door anchors. For the end user, each PilatesStick includes a 12 exercise poster, 20 minute video, an exercise mat, and the PilatesStick itself, all which roll into the travel bag.
Pilates is for all levels of fitness
Regardless of your level of fitness, Pilates can help you achieve your fitness goals and allow you to have the body you desire. Whether you are a 210 pound man or a 100 pound woman, the low-impact exercise, muscle balance, strengthening, and mental clarity will help you start this New Year the right way and help you keep that resolution to get fit.
Richard Chandler researches innovative new home fitness equipment, medical supplies, mobility aids, and healthcare technology for ActiveForever. For more information on Pilates exercises, the PilatesStick, or other home exercise equipment, please visit www.activeforever.com or visit the Medical Supplies Blog at www.medicalsuppliesblog.com.
Source: www.ezinearticles.com
