While it may seem that Pilates is an exciting fad right now, with celebrities and athletes alike singing its praises, there is definite substance to the popularity. Whether it is done on a mat or a reformer, Pilates has plenty of dedicated participants becoming more flexible, strong and relaxed with each workout they complete. This use of a special technique to move the body was developed by Joseph Pilates and combines elements of other exercise and physical therapy practices. His goal was to improve balance and increase flexibility while also engaging breathing and strengthening muscles. It sounds like a lot of boxes can be checked with Pilates practice and the truth is, there is merit to the hype.
Pilates can be done in various ways, ranging from simple mat workouts, to complicated and difficult reformer routines. Practice can be done individually or in a group. One of the most important parts of Pilates is doing the exercises in a certain order and having control over the body. This helps to gain strength and lengthen muscles. Another important aspect in Pilates is mindfulness. Being aware of how and why movements are being done and paying attention to how it feels is a big part of practice. Energy levels can vary with different instructors. Some choose to run classes in a slow, relaxing way to ease muscles into the moves. Other instructors enjoy a more upbeat class setting that adds jumps and slides for a more cardio heavy impact. Trying out a couple of different classes can help determine a good fit.
Practicing Pilates has multiple benefits. One important bonus is an improvement in mindfulness. It takes coordination and concentration to align body parts correctly and especially to engage the core. Flexibility is another benefit to joining Pilates classes on a regular basis. This can help prevent injuries related to the back and other vulnerable body parts. Since the entire body is engaged in stretching, nothing gets left out. One body part that will get an extra special workout is the core. The center of the body is a major focus and many exercises are geared toward strengthening and utilizing the abdominal muscles. These core-centric exercises can lead to sculpted abs and other muscles over time. Regular practice of Pilates, along with a healthy diet can aid in weight loss and overall wellness.
While Pilates and Yoga are similar, there are some specific differences that may have a person leaning more one way than the other. Yoga tends to be focused heavily on the psyche and employs breathing to relax and loosen up the body. Pilates also employs breathing technique but it is used more to strengthen the movement. Another difference is that Pilates utilizes equipment and cardio elements and can result in more extreme and speedier body changes. Both Yoga and Pilates strengthen and tone. Stress release and reduction in pain can be a wonderful outcome with the practice of either. Trying a couple of classes may sway a person one way or the other, but the important thing is to find something that keeps the body strong and healthy. Obviously, Pilates has been a favored exercise method for decades for a reason and is definitely more than a passing fad.