Pilates: Strengthening Body & Mind
When it comes to a healthy body, working out and staying active are vital. But while it can be easy at the start to get a good workout plan in order, we can sometimes become bored of the same routine.
Pilates is a type of exercise that may not only help you lose weight and get in shape, but have much more long-term benefits, especially for those that battle neck and back pain. Read more to find out more information about Pilates and the benefits it may have on your body!
What is Pilates?
Chances are you have heard at one time or another about Pilates classes at your gym or in your area. But being informed about its methods may help you jump into a new class and trying it out. Pilates is a set of various strength exercise that is geared towards strengthening and stretching movements.
What does Pilates work on?
The exercises of Pilates is geared towards strengthening your core (or abdomen). It is also a way of exercise that helps with: range of motion, posture, flexibility and range of motion. These types of exercises may benefit those that have long dealt with pain in their backs, necks or have endured an accident that hasn’t allowed them to pick up activities such as swimming or running.
Benefits of Pilates
When it comes to Pilates, there are a variety of benefits that every person will see once they have tried this type of exercise. All of the benefits will vary based on each individual, but one thing will be in common: the consistency in improvement in their body. Pilates is similar in yoga in that it helps calm the mind and the body. Breathing techniques are a focus in Pilates and it is key in developing technique in the other areas of the exercise.
Below are a list of benefits that Pilates may offer to almost everyone:
- Relief of Stress: the breathing techniques of each posture may help with reducing stress. Focusing on breathing and exercising are both ways in which you may manage your stress levels.
- Strengthening of back and core: the movements that are used in this type of exercise are geared towards strengthening your back and your abdomen. These strengthening exercises may help relieve years of back pain.
- Become lean: for some, becoming lean is a goal. If you are looking to be strong and fit without the extra muscle bulkiness, then Pilates is the choice for you. The various exercises are geared towards gaining the strength that lifting and strength exercises may give you, without looking too big.
- Gentle on injuries: What keeps a lot of injured and disabled people from working out is the impact it may have on the body. The great thing about Pilates is its gentle approach to exercises and movements.