Pilates Exercise

The Pilates Exercise is being considered as one of

the most popular exercise nowadays.

It is a Body/ mind/ spirit based method of exercising and

was developed by Joseph Pilates in 1920s.

This Exercise emphasizes on the balanced development of our body

through core strength and flexibility .

It was initially developed to be used as a

rehabilitation program for prisoners of war and was

later proved to be of high benefit for everyone seeking a high

level of fitness.

This method of exercising works mostly for each and

everyone of us, no matter the age, the background, the profession

or your physical condition.

The reason for this being the fact that the

Pilates Exercise is an adaptable method; it can

be modified and varied from one individual to the other.

Principles Of Pilates

Centering: The focus here is on the center of the body

where you get all the energy from.

Concentration: This is based on the commitment in order

to have the best results.

Control: Every movement is controlled, there is no

haphazard here.

Breath: Lungs come in action here and are used to pump

the air fully in and out of the body.

Flow: This method is done with grace and ease.

Precision: All movements are as they should be.

Pilates Mats

If you go to the studio instead, you don't really need to buy one

as most studios provide the mats.

There is a wide varieties of Pilates mats available on the

market. They vary from each other from seize, style and colors.

Caracteristics of pilates mats

but good pilates mats must be:

- Firm; soft mats are not appropriate for

pilates exercises

- At least half an inch thick

- Long and wide enough for your own comfort

Types of Pilates Mats

exercices :

Folding mats: these are the best quality on the market

and are of course a bit expensive. they are quite heavy and best

for home workout if you can afford them. Those are the one you'll

usually find in studios.

Roll up mats: these mats are portable and available in

most stores or online. They are less expensive than the folding

ones.

Here are some good DVDs to help you start...

Benefits of Pilates

you should try it as well:

a)- It's a full-body fitness

b)- It increases the flexibility

c)- It helps you lose weight

d)- It increases energy

e)- It helps you develop core strength