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Pilates is a form of exercise that incorporates deep breathing techniques to improve posture, balance and core strength. It is a method that encourages the use of the mind to control the body. Pilates exercise focuses on increasing strength and flexibility of abdomen and back muscles and coordination of both muscular and mental abilities. When practiced faithfully, Pilates provides numerous benefits. By focusing on breathing techniques, Pilates can realign the spine and strengthen deep torso muscles.
Many report an increase in bone density, making it a good form of exercise for men and women. In a nutshell, Pilates teaches individuals to obtain balance and control over the physical body. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates around 1914. Joseph Pilates was a boxer who lived in England during WWI. He was a self-taught yoga instructor and Zen practitioner. During the time he was imprisoned he taught fellow prisoners' yoga and developed a system of exercises known as "matwork", or exercises done on the floor. Pilates named his exercise system "Contrology" because it focused on controlled breathing.Around 1917, Joseph Pilates was transferred to another prisoner camp. There he became a caretaker of soldiers and civilians who were stricken with physical injuries and wartime diseases. During this time, Pilates developed equipment for rehabilitation purposes. Using bed springs, he was able to develop a device that offered spring resistance and movement for patients who were bedridden. Today, Pilates exercise equipment is similar to the devices developed by Joseph Pilates at the turn of the century. Pilates exercise equipment utilized spring tension and straps to hold feet and hands, while providing support for the back, neck and shoulder. Many Pilates' exercises are performed on a mat. They are intended to be performed in fluid motions, as opposed to the static, isolated movements of other popular work-out routines. By focusing intently on each movement, the exercise becomes precise, perfect, and graceful. People who participate in Pilates exercises on a regular basis develop graceful movement and perfect posture that carries over into their daily lives. Grace of motion is emphasized over speed and performed in a sequence such as a waltz or ballroom dancing. Pilates helps people develop muscles which are conducive to good posture, suppleness, and natural grace. |
