What is Pilates method?
The Pilates method is a type of exercise that is based on great concentration and rigorous breathing . It develops a precise work of all the muscles, both the peripheral, habitual in physical movements, and the deeper, more difficult to control. It was created at the beginning of the 20th century and takes precepts from yoga, martial arts and bodybuilding. This discipline was restricted for a long time to the world of dance but in recent years it has become popular.
Origin of the Pilates method
The Pilates method was originally called Contrology by its creator, Joseph Pilates, who conceived this discipline as a way to coordinate body and mind to be aware of the movements we perform. In this way, the objective is to achieve complete control of the body, and to achieve that coordination even in the activities that we do unconsciously.
A very clear example is postural hygiene. In Pilates classes you learn to maintain a correct posture that does not damage your back and it is practiced consciously during the exercises. There comes a time when we internalize those good postures, and we practice them not only in the classroom, but also unconsciously at other times of the day. Many people, in fact, claim that after a few months of practice they feel ‘taller’, as if they have stretched, something that is nothing more than an effect of maintaining a less harmful posture for the spine.
Benefits of practicing Pilates
In addition to being a highly recommended method of maintaining good physical shape, it is especially effective in combating back pain, constipation and stress.
One of the advantages of this discipline is that it is affordable for everyone, since its exercises can be practiced at different intensities. In this way, from elite athletes to people with reduced mobility can benefit from its practice.
The benefits of Pilates are very varied: it increases flexibility, corrects postural problems, improves coordination, increases physical and mental resistance, relieves muscle aches and, like all sports, increases the well-being and relaxation of those who practice them.
Types of Pilates
Pilates can be worked on the floor, or with special machines. In the first type, the movements are done freely on a mat, and elements can be added to complement the exercises, such as balls, elastic bands or hoops.
Pilates with machines, as its name suggests, uses special devices that can be modulated according to the degree of training of the person who practices it. The most used machines with the reformer and the cadillac.
Over time, Pilates has evolved, and many schools teach classes in what is called contemporary Pilates, which incorporates these adaptations and new elements, which are often based on advances in scientific knowledge about the human body. . Classical Pilates is understood as one that rigorously follows the exercises conceived by Joseph Pilates. Mergers with other disciplines have also been created: the best known is the ‘yogilates’, which combines yoga and Pilates.
Pilates in pregnancy
The practice of Pilates during pregnancy is totally safe, and in fact it is a highly recommended exercise as it relieves back pain, promotes breathing control and helps to be more relaxed, among other advantages.
Pilates exercises are adapted according to the state of pregnancy, and it is best to attend special classes for pregnant women.
