Pilates is a training method.
Pilates is a method used to train from the combination of various disciplines, such as yoga , gymnastics . Its name refers to Joseph Hubertus Pilates ( 1883 – 1967 ), the model, athlete, nurse and student of body issues who developed this system.
The Pilates method , baptized by its creator as controlology , is based on exercises that help improve muscle tone through a succession of fluid movements. Its essence lies in the use of the brain to control the body, promoting balance.
Pilates Principles
It is important to know that Pilates is based on six specific principles:
- Concentration , which is necessary to be able to connect the mind and body.
- Precision , essential to execute all the movements that must be performed.
- Breathing , which is the basis of this discipline.
- Control , which is essential to avoid performing uncoordinated or sudden exercises that could cause physical damage.
- Fluidity of movement , essential for the exercises to be carried out in the ideal way and at the correct speed.
- Centralization , which states that the center of the body is the set of abdominal muscles.
The movements promoted by Pilates must be done thoroughly so that they can be coordinated with breathing . Through this control of the body and mind, the person manages to discover the capacity but also the barriers that are found within.
It is possible to practice Pilates with machines.
Your benefits
When Pilates is developed properly, the subject can improve their coordination, flexibility and muscles. The key to success lies in technical precision when performing the movements, since the technique is more relevant than the hours dedicated to the exercise or the number of repetitions, for example.
In addition to everything stated above, we cannot overlook another important series of benefits of Pilates , such as these:
- It ensures that the person who practices it improves both their balance and their agility .
- No less interesting is knowing that it helps correct postural habits that translate into back pain.
- Any type of muscle tension can also be eliminated by practicing this sport.
Beyond the muscular and strictly physical, defenders of Pilates assure that this method also helps reduce stress and improve the self-esteem of those who practice it.
Pilates practitioners
We must not forget that, although anyone can practice this discipline, it is recommended for specific groups such as these:
- People who have suffered an injury and are in the recovery phase.
- Those who suffer from back problems.
- Pregnant women, since they manage to reduce the symptoms they experience to the stress that knowing that a great responsibility is about to come into their lives can cause them. All this without forgetting that it is a great alternative to prepare your body for the moment of childbirth, gaining flexibility and strengthening the pelvic floor.
It should be noted that there are two main ways to practice Pilates : doing it directly on the floor or a mat , or using machines specifically designed for these practices.