Pilates

Pilates is a system of exercises that promote strength, stability, and flexibility. It focuses on developing the body through muscular effort from the core and cultivates awareness of the body for efficient and graceful movements. Pilates is popular among dancers but appeals to a wider audience. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, it targets the powerhouse muscles to improve posture and balance.

Pilates is a highly effective exercise system that targets the powerhouse muscles, including the glutes, hips, pelvic floor, and lower back. Similar to yoga, Pilates emphasizes deep, conscious breathing and is commonly used in rehabilitation settings. It is also beneficial for fitness enthusiasts and elite athletes looking to improve their strength, stability, and flexibility.

How it works?

Core strength is the foundation of how Pilates works. By strengthening the core it helps develop stability throughout the entire torso, and from this reason, this is why Pilates is effective in supporting many people with their aches and pains, and helping many others alleviate their back pain. (1)

Core muscular stability through core engagement is the foundation of Pilates training, as it influences how the body moves beyond the studio or gym. Joseph Pilates aimed to create a method that promotes graceful, efficient movement, requiring strength, flexibility, and specific qualities of movement, such as balance and fluidity. These principles are applied in every Pilates exercise, with functional movement patterns promoting even muscle development and a long, lean appearance.

Pilates is a popular exercise method that attracts many people who want to strength without bulk. This method emphasizes balanced muscular development by training the body to move with harmony and efficiency. According to the Pilates Method, an imbalanced body can lead to muscular weaknesses that inhibit joint movement. Unlike other exercise systems, Pilates prioritizes quality over quantity, focusing on precision and deep breathing to achieve its significant results.

Why Deep Breathing?

Deep breathing is a crucial aspect of Pilates. It involves exhaling fully with every inhale to eliminate stale air and allow fresh oxygen to enter the lungs. By incorporating this improved breathing cycle it can help improve circulation, in aiding the body to function optimally from the inside out.

What are the health benefits of Pilates?

As Pilates focuses on core strength, posture, and flexibility the health benefits can include:

Good posture:
- Pilates is an excellent way to improve your posture. By teaching and supporting you to gain and maintain good posture, the exercises require that your body is always in alignment. This is especially beneficial if you suffer from lower back pain.

Muscle tone:
- Pilates can help improve muscle tone by engaging muscles that are not typically used in daily activities. Although there may be initial soreness, regular Pilates practice can lead to stronger and more toned muscles. This is particularly beneficial for older individuals and those with sedentary, as muscle tone tends to decrease with age and inactivity

Flexibility:
- Pilates is an excellent way to restore flexibility, especially we age and tend to lose the flexibility we had when we were young. The exercises are gentle at first, but with regular practice, you'll be amazed at how much more flexible body has become. This is particularly important for avoiding injuries from falls and other workout and exercise routines.

Improves your balance:
- Pilates is a great way to improve your balance. By teaching you the mind-body connection, Pilates helps you become more aware of how your body moves and performs This not only improves your physical balance through correct posture but also aims to restore your mind-body balance.

Reduces stress:
- Pilates is an excellent way to reduce stress. By on your breathing and movements, you'll be able to forget about your daily and unwind. The slow pace of Pilates also makes it a great way to relax after a busy day while still getting a workout

Gives you a general sense of wellbeing:
- Pilates is a great way to achieve balance between your mind and body, which can lead to an overall sense of wellbeing. By focusing on core strength, posture, and flexibility, Pilates can help you feel more centered and energized, both physically and mentally.

Further Support your Chiropractic Care!

If you are looking to compliment chiropractic care, Pilates is a great addition to helping support both strengthening the body, and relaxation of the mind. Whether you are a beginner or avid gym goer, Pilates can be tailored to your fitness level and help keep you strong, flexible, and helping you maintain a better posture. All you need is some loose, comfortable clothing and the certified instructor will help you achieve your goals and support you on your journey to becoming stronger and improving your overall well-being.

References:

(1) - Wells C, Kolt GS, Marshall P, Hill B, Bialocerkowski A. The effectiveness of Pilates exercise in people with chronic low back pain: a systematic review. PLoS One. 2014;9(7):e100402. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0100402