An effective and low-impact workout, Pilates has been around for nearly
100 years, but has grown in popularity in recent decades. The unique
strength training exercises work deep muscles and can improve everything
from flexibility and balance to circulation and muscle control. Whether
you're just starting an exercise regimen or returning to workouts after an
injury, Pilates is great for all levels of fitness!
Benefits of Pilates
While other types of training (such as weight training) can build your
total strength, they also tend to leave you with tight, stiff muscles
that aren’t as flexible as you’d like them to be. Pilates helps you to
develop strength while maintaining limber and flexible muscles,
ligaments, and tendons. When you leave the workout, you’ll feel relaxed,
calm, and loose.
Pilates workouts were designed in the 1920s by a man named Joseph
Pilates, who originally named the method “Controlology.” It was
conceived as a whole-body workout that goes far beyond simply
strengthening the large muscles of your body. With Pilates, you’ll also
strengthen your brain’s connection with all the micro muscles that might
get overlooked in a typical workout. You’ll be challenged more than you
might expect!
Part of the benefit of being more flexible is that your overall chances
of getting injured tend to go down. Pilates movements are also
low-impact, helping you to reduce the likelihood of pain or of
aggravating an old injury. In addition, Pilates focuses on training you
to maintain correct postural alignment, reducing your chances of back
pain and other movements that could create injury. You will probably be
sore after a Pilates workout, but you shouldn’t be in pain. Pro athletes
love the effect of Pilates because it acts as a preventive measure, it
helps them bounce back quicker after a minor injury, and it promotes
their career longevity.
