Have you been looking for a workout routine to get yourself back into shape? With so many options out there a person could give up before they even start. Have you ever thought about trying Pilates? Pilates (pronounced puh-lah-teez) is one of the safest forms of exercise on the fitness market today. In this article I will briefly explain the benefits of beginning a Pilates routine, the six key principles of Pilates and how Pilates will improve your overall well-being and get you back into shape.
Pilates differs from many other forms of training in a few areas. First it works the entire body as well as the mind, forcing the participant to concentrate on control and precision as you move through the routine. Secondly, the movements involved in a Pilates routine focus more on quality not quantity unlike body building which focuses more on repetition. Third is the actual concept behind Pilates. You see the concepts behind Pilates is to make the participant stronger from the inside out rather than building huge muscles like body building, instead Pilates focuses on a strengthening your core group of muscles known as your powerhouse. These core muscles are your abdominal muscles (those muscles which give you the 6-pack), the lower back, the hips and the buttocks.
The creator of Pilates Joseph Pilates, created six key principles as the main areas to focus on when practicing Pilates. This first key principle centering, focuses on the core group of muscles known as the powerhouse. The principle is that from within this core group of muscles energy is created and begins to flow from it to the body’s extremities. The second key principle is concentration. The belief is if you truly concentrate on the movements of the exercise then you will achieve the best results. The third principle is the belief that if the participant is in control of not only their core group of muscles but their entire body, they will achieve maximum results from the movements. The fourth principle precision is based on the movements in Pilates. Every movement must be done with complete control. Each body part works with others to maximize the effectiveness of the workout. A Pilates workout is never rushed. The breathing techniques practised in Pilates is the fifth key principle. Just like in any other exercise program using proper breathing techniques is very important. A Pilates exercise program focuses on full forced exhalation and full inhalation at specific times of the movement. Incorporating proper breathing techniques is essential when properly practising Pilates. The sixth and final principle is flow. The natural movement of the body is essential when practising Pilates. A Pilates routine is never rushed, instead it is a series of very precise flowing movements using the different body parts as one. It’s these slow and steady fluid movements, which develop the muscles evenly leading to an overall full body experience.
Anyone could lace up a pair of sneakers and take up jogging but with all that pounding on the pavement you run the risk of potential injuries like shin splints, knee injuries or even back problems. With a Pilates workout all you need is a bit of floor space and a floor mat.
Pilates is a popular concept even viewed by most practitioners as a modern philosophy of life. Combining body exercising with psychological aspects is what really makes Pilates so much more demanding than other forms of exercise, while the low impact nature of the exercises makes it perfect for young and old to practise as well as the injured or even pregnant women. You could incorporate machines or simple stick with your floor mat. It’s my belief that it’s the versatility of a Pilates workout that seems to be drawing followers to it in droves. You can practice Pilates at home or in a studio, exercises are available at different levels Ranging from the beginner to the expert. Even professional athletes are choosing Pilates in order to keep them fit.
C. Farrell is an Internet Marketer, Entrepreneur and mother of 2 toddlers, who somehow finds the time to freelance write and create niche content websites. For more information about Exercising with Pilates please visit Pilatesforhealthyliving.com
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