Benefits Of Pilates
Unlike some forms of exercise, Pilates does not over-develop some parts of the frame and neglect others. While the training focuses on core strength, it trains the figure as an integrated whole.

The workouts promote strength and balanced muscle development as well as flexibility and increased range of motion for the joints. The attention to core support and full-body fitness provides a level of integrative fitness that is hard to find elsewhere.

It is also the reason that the exercise is so popular in rehabilitative scenarios, as well as with athletes who find that Pilates is a great foundation for any other kind of movement practice they do. Whether you are a senior just starting to exercise, an elite athlete or somewhere in between, the foundations of the movements apply to you.

Building from core strength, focusing on proper alignment, and a body/mind integrative approach make the exercise accessible to all. With thousands of possible exercises and modifications, workouts can be tailored to individual needs.

Long, lean muscles are the name of the game here. The movements are building toned muscles that work perfectly within the context of the frame as a whole, and the functional fitness needs of a person as they move through life.

One of the ways that Pilates creates long, strong muscles is by taking advantage of a type of muscle contraction called an eccentric contraction. The core muscles of the body are the deep muscles of the back, abdomen, and pelvic floor.

These are the muscles humans rely on to support a strong, supple back, good posture, and efficient movement patterns. When the core is strong, the frame of the figure is supported.

This means the neck and shoulders can relax, and the rest of the muscles and joints are freed to do their jobs — and not more. A nice side benefit is that the core training promotes the flat abs that we all covet.

Good posture is a reflection good alignment supported by a strong core. It is a position from which one can move freely.

Starting with Pilates movement fundamentals and moving through mat and equipment exercises, the movements train the form to express itself with strength and harmony. You can see this in the beautiful posture of those who practice Pilates.

It might seem like a paradox, but the more you exercise, the more energy you have and the more you feel like doing. The movement gets the breath and circulation moving, stimulates the spine and muscles, and floods the body with the good feelings one gets from exercising the whole frame.

If you practice the movements regularly, it will change your body. Known for creating long, strong muscles and a leaner look; Pilates improves muscle tone, balances musculature, supports beautiful posture, and teaches you to move with ease and grace.

If you want to lose weight, the formula for weight loss remains the same: Burn more calories than you take in. As a full-body fitness method, it helps will help you do that.

Combined with aerobic activity, the routine becomes a prime weight loss and shape toning tool. Joseph Pilates was adamant that his method is about “the complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit.”

This is one of the secrets of the exercise: you practice each movement with total attention. When we exercise in this way, the body and mind unite to bring forth the most benefit possible from each exercise.

The Pilates principles — centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow — are key concepts that we use to integrate body and mind. Many forms of instruction are easy to come by these days.

The ever-growing popularity of the exercise has put it on the map all over the world. This is good because when you start training, it is important to start with live Pilates instruction at a studio or gym, and preferably from a certified instructor.

But there are lots of ways to supplement your learning once you get going. You can practice at home and you don’t need one bit of fancy equipment, just comfy clothes and a mat.