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Joseph Pilates was a weak and sickly child. Determined to strengthen his body and make it well, he developed a series of
exercises to help improve his health. His influences are said to be yoga, Zen philosophy, and exercises borrowed from ancient
Romans and Greeks.
When he was interned in Germany during WWII, Pilates introduced his exercises to other members of the German internment
camp in which he was placed. This helped them retain their strength and ward off illness. As he taught his exercises to the
other internees, Pilates developed movements for floor or mat workout as well. When Pilates was at the internment camp, he
started experimenting with various apparatus and made a few from bed springs. These provided resistance and were perfect for
his exercises.
The workout taught to those in the internment camp became the basis of today's popular Pilates movement, which is a series
of exercises designed to improve flexibility and strength through a variety of stretching and balancing movements.
Pilates especially appeals to dancers because the workout aids in flexibility without causing muscles to bulk. Athletes,
celebrities and models also recommend Pilates. In addition to increased flexibility, it's also said to prevent injury and
improve posture. It strengthens and shapes the body from the inside out. To those who practice Pilates, the body isn't the
only area benefiting. Many feel the mind is opened and expanded through regular Pilate's workouts. Like yoga, it relieves
stress and anxiety.
Pilates is recommended by those in the physiotherapy profession for strengthening the back and the spine. After a regular
Pilate's regimen, one can expect increased mobility in one's joints, a flatter stomach, thinner waist and thighs, and improved
circulation.
Because Pilates are gentle exercises without a lot of bouncing around or muscular stress, it's recommended to those seeking
rehabilitation through physical therapy. It's also considered a good workout for the elderly and overweight because there's
no jumping or lifting involved. Those afflicted with arthritis also appreciate Pilates' as it helps to reduce stiffness in
the muscles. Since it promotes good posture, it assists in the prevention of osteoporosis.
Pilates is perfect for helping women regain their shape after pregnancy as it especially provides results in the abdominal
area.
Pilates is a great head-to-toe workout, improving not only your body but also your mind. Is it any wonder it's the workout
of choice for many actors, athletes and dancers?
RECOMMENDED 2 - 3 SESSIONS / PER WEEK
Instructor - Karen Ogle BSc Hons - Chartered Physiotherapist
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