Joseph Pilates
Pilates is a form of exercise created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s. Due to illness as a child, he aimed to improve his physical health. He studied different fitness disciplines such as gymnastics, body building, martial arts and yoga. Originally termed Contrology, Joseph Pilates’ exercises were initially used to rehabilitate soldiers and later on dancers. Joseph Pilates believed that mental health and physical health were closely connected. His notion was that by maintaining a good mind-body awareness, the better connection you would establish with your body and hence more benefits you would gain from your workout. Makes sense, right?
Principles of Exercise in Pilates
- Centering (focusing and using your core: strengthen abdominals & back muscles).
- Concentration (focus on your workout).
- Control of movement (controlling the movement with mind-body awareness).
- Precision of movement (engaging correct muscles).
- Breathing (encourages full use of lung capacity, relaxes the body & mind, helps concentration, engages transverse abdominis correctly).
- Flow of movement (during and between exercises).
Modern & Contemporary Approach to Pilates
Pilates has risen in popularity is the last decades as a means to gain and maintain physical fitness. It is also very effective as a form of rehabilitation exercise. It ranges from being a gentle physical activity to a very challenging one. This depends on the learner’s fitness level and aim. Since Joseph Pilates passed away in 1967, many changes and discoveries have taken place on the biomechanics of the human body. Modern biology & anatomy knowledge is incorporated into modern Pilates. Due to this there is more awareness on how the musculoskeletal system works and how to programme a smarter workout. A detailed postural body analysis can help identify areas of strength and weakness and help correct muscular imbalances so that the body can achieve a better state of equilibrium and wellbeing.
Can anyone do Pilates?
Similar to yoga, Pilates concentrates on posture, balance and flexibility. In Pilates, if performed correctly, the chance of injury is much lower than with other more strenuous forms of exercise. It is a popular form of exercise to keep fit and toned, to help correct postural issues, rehabilitation from injuries and back conditions. Pilates can be modified to provide either a gentle strength training program or a challenging workout, most people should have no problem with this form of exercise. It is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Consult your doctor before engaging in physical exercise if you have any of the following:
- A risk of blood clots.
- Unstable blood pressure.
- A herniated disk.
- Severe osteoporosis.
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