It is perhaps the Hollywood glitz and glamour that has everyone
into the dieting and exercising fad. One of the most popular exercise
programs is Pilates, which is especially designed to stretch, strengthen
and balance the body through a series of routines. It combines both
body movements and breathing patterns.
Pilates
is known to increase lung capacity and circulation through exercises
that focus on breathing. It also promotes strength and flexibility
in the abdomen and the back muscles as well as improving on the
coordination of the mind and the muscles. And because the program
centers and emphasizes the importance of balance and posture, general
health improves along with bone density.
It
is perhaps these numerous benefits and the fact that Pilates can
be tailor-made and incorporated in routines that make each class
costly. Prices for classes range from $10 to $20 for group classes
and about $50 to $100 or even more for individual lessons with trained
instructors.
How
did this start?
Joseph
Pilates is a performer and a boxer in England. His fascination for
exercise and health issues stem from his being a sickly child. Determined
to strengthen his body, he studied, practiced and developed exercises
that will improve his health. True enough, he grew to be really
strong, choosing professions that would utilize body strength and
endurance.
When
he was detained with German nationals in Lancaster, he taught fellow
camp members the concepts and exercises he developed through years
and years of self-study and training in yoga and Zen, not to mention
all the other Greek and Roman physical regimens.
It
was at this time when he began to devise a system of original “Contrology”
exercises now known as “matwork,” which refers to exercise
routines done on the floor. When he was taken to another camp where
he served as caretaker, he devised equipment that would help rehabilitate
his “patients.
The
equipment that he made was not much different from what is being
used today by people who subscribe to the Pilates program. Spring
tension straps are also used in routines to hold the feet and to
support the shoulders, neck and head in routines.
Because
of its focus on balance and flexibility, Pilates holds much appeal
for dancers and performers. Some celebrities, actresses and models,
in fact, are enamored by the graceful movements that are incorporated
in each routine. Not only does Pilates help improve health and well-being,
it also develops proper posture and blood circulation, preventing
the occurrence of osteoporosis.
What
is more, Pilates does not involve a lot of muscle stress because
the routines are gentle and slow similar to dance. There is no running
and jumping around. Practitioners do not even need to lift heavy
things. This is the reason why doctors often recommend Pilates to
patients who have back and spine injuries as well as those afflicted
with Arthritis and other muscle ailments. The routines are also
good for people who are undergoing rehabilitation and physical therapy.
Pilates
is also good for people who are a bit older and those who are overweight.
It is in essence a relaxing exercise program, which not only helps
in the reduction of weight and improvement of health but also in
de-stressing and relaxing the body, mind and the spirit.
About
the Author
Shannon
Brown is the editor of PilatesFactor.com. This site caters
to Pilates enthusiasts. You can visit the site at: www.PilatesFactor.com
Article
Source: www.articlerich.com