In World War I, a German Physical Therapist wanted to improve the rehabilitation program for returning veterans. He created principles to condition the entire body. The principles focused on proper alignment, centering, concentration, control, precision breathing and flowing movement. The therapist's name was Joseph Pilates and his fitness system, Pilates, is practiced regularly by millions of people in the U.S. today.
Pilates has historically been used by dancers for conditioning and injury rehabilitation. Now, with so many actors and models crediting their toned and fit bodies to Pilates, the Pilates method of exercise is becoming more popular with the mainstream population.
So, what does doing Pilates really mean? Pilates exercises are designed to strengthen the abdominal, pelvic and lower back regions of the body, also known as the core. This is accomplished by pelvic stability and abdominal control. The apparatus used in Pilates is the Reformer, a piece of equipment that has various pulleys, springs, cables, and a sliding board. Exercisers primarily use their own weight as resistance. Instructors will guide participants through a series of progressive range of motion. If you find yourself intimidated by this equipment you can still enjoy participating in Pilates through floor work classes that focus on strengthening the core muscles.
What can you expect to gain with Pilates? Well, according to Karen Speitel, Pilates Instructor and Manager of Mind - Body Fitness Pilates Studio in Los Feliz, www.mind-bodyfitness.net, "you can improve strength, flexibility, and joint mobility. She also points out that you can lose weight with Pilates as long as a proper diet and cardio work is included in your fitness regime. Karen is quick to point out that the focus of a Pilates workout should be on proper breathing and correct technique on all movements and that weight loss is a byproduct of the workout.
Can anyone do Pilates? Pilates exercises are very low impact and almost everyone can do it. Exercise sessions are designed according to an individual's flexibility and strength limitations. Unlike traditional exercises, the Pilates method of exercises is performed in several planes of motion, with few repetitions and have very precise movements. This method of working out stresses slow controlled movements and proper breathing. Karen Speitel says "it is easy to cheat in group classes because there is a lot of isometric contractions of core muscles". She suggests taking a couple of private sessions to make sure you learn the proper breathing techniques and exercise form. Having an initial session will help the instructor find your strength and flexibility weaknesses. This will help in a group session where you can alert your instructor to your specific problem areas and they will be able to adjust your exercise accordingly.
What is the cost of doing Pilates? Pilates sessions are usually an hour in length and run, on average, $30-$50 per session. Taking a group lesson in a studio can cost you $8-$25 per session.
Before taking a class, be sure to get your doctor's approval to begin a Pilates program. If you are looking for a non-invasive way of challenging your muscles and improving your flexibility and mobility then I encourage you to give Pilates a try. The rewards of this system of exercise are well worth the effort you put into it.
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