Pilates Equipment
Fitness innovator Joseph H. Pilates developed the Pilates exercise system in the 1920s when his interest in physical fitness sprang from the need to strengthen his own body and improve his health after a period of personal illness. Since Pilates already had a background in yoga, martial arts and other fitness techniques, he developed his unique exercise movements to strengthen both the body and mind together.
Pilates approach to mind-body fitness really got going strong in the 1990’s when people started seeking alternative routes to overall health and wellness. Pilates classes began to spring up at yoga studios and neighborhood gyms across the country and celebrities and athletes began to employ it as well.
Pilates exercises can be difficult for beginners because you will need to get familiar with using supporting muscles for balancing and strengthening movements and poses. With time and practice, more exercises can be added to your routine once your body adapts a bit. But initial difficulty doesn’t mean Pilates is only for the strong and physically fit, as people of all ages and abilities can benefit from the practice too.
Almost all Pilates workouts include some mat work and perhaps some exercise balls as well. The balls are mostly used by instructors to help beginners concentrate on their moves and what the body is doing. More advanced Pilates classes may include some machine work. The machines serve to intensify the workouts by using body weight as the resistance. The best clothing for performing Pilates is loose and comfortable cotton clothes like a T-shirt and shorts. Special shoes are not needed, as Pilates work is usually performed without wearing shoes of any kind.
Pilates Fundamental Principles:
Concentration – Controlling movements increases body awareness. Breathing – Deep breathing activates deep muscles and focuses attention. Precision - Proper form and precision are key. Alignment - Good posture from the head down to the toes. Centering - Mental focus enables the body to function efficiently. Stability - Learning to be still. Integration - Different muscle groups are used simultaneously Fluidity – Graceful, continuous motion.
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