Taking up Pilates
The Basics
Pilates (pronounced Pi-lah-tees) is a system of body conditioning designed to strengthen and lengthen the body's muscles with emphasis on reducing incidence of back pain and injury. Pilates was developed over 80 years ago by Joseph Pilates.
It’s said that the method involves concentration and the co-ordination of breath and movement, thereby helping to balance mind and body. The great thing about Pilates is that just about everyone - from couch potatoes to fitness buffs - can do it.
It’s appropriate for all ages because it tones and strengthens the muscles without impacting the joints. Pilates improves posture and strengthens the parts of the body that tend to decline with age, including the stomach muscles, inner thighs and upper arms.
Common Myths & Misconceptions
- “All I need to do is Pilates to keep fit”. Whilst Madonna and other famous ‘fit looking’ stars swear by Pilates, you can rest assured they do a lot more than just this exercise – including being aware of their diet. Whilst Pilates helps with flexibility, posture and strength, it isn't much of a cardio or strength training workout, so it should be an add-on to your regular exercise programme.
Tips & Tricks
- Because Pilates has gained lots of attention recently, there are lots of classes available. You'll probably find that many gyms and centres offer Pilates classes. Some Pilate’s instructors also offer private classes that can be purchased class by class or in blocks of classes; these may combine mat work with machine work. If your health club makes Pilates machines available to members, make sure there's a qualified Pilates instructor on duty to teach and supervise you during the exercises.
- Look for an instructor who is certified by a group that has a rigorous training programme. These instructors have completed several hundred hours of training just in Pilates and know the different ways to modify the exercises.
- Wear loose, light comfortable clothing.
- Ideally, wait at least 2 hours after eating before attending a Pilate’s class. It is also preferable for you to go to the toilet so that your bowels and bladder are empty before practice.
- Stop any exercise at any time if there is pain in any part of the body .
- When you perform your exercises, avoid quick, jerky movements. Every movement should be slow, but still strong and flexible. Joseph Pilates worked with dancers and designed his movements to flow like a dance.
The Pilates Foundation will be able to help you further if your interested in starting