This popular fitness method focuses on strengthening the core.
What is pilates?
Pilates is a physical fitness methodology that emphasises on a nexus of mental and physical strength. Initially called ‘Contrology’, this was the brainchild of German born physical–culturist Joseph Pilates and is now referred to as just Pilates.
The routine aims at focusing mental strength to direct muscle control; this not only conditions the body but also increases flexibility, strength, endurance and co-ordination. When practiced regularly, the practitioner inherits a certain grace in regular body movements, hence popularising the routine among dancers. Joseph Pilates believed that a person’s mental and physical health were co-dependent and the routine has evolved into a wholesome discipline practiced by millions all over the world.
Principles of Pilates
As a youth, Joseph Pilates had practiced multiple fitness routines and this led to the evolution of Pilates. Over time, various equipment and specially designed apparatuses have grown to be a part of this fitness regime.
There are six basic principles around which Pilates is based:
Centring. The core of the Pilates method lies, literally, in your core. The core or centre of your body refers to the area between your lower ribs and pubic bones and all exercises are done with your centre as the main source.
Concentration. Pilates demands that you focus and concentrate on what you’re doing for the maximum benefit.
Control. The routine is based on the concept of total muscle control, with emphasis on you controlling your body and not the other way round.
Precision. Each movement should be done meticulously and perfectly. Pilates believes that it’s better to do a few perfect movements, rather than a bunch of improper ones.
Breathing. Complete utilisation of your lungs as well as using your breath to coordinate your exercises is one of the key principles of Pilates.
Flow. Flow signifies the fluidity and elegance with which one is expected to do the Pilates exercises. It also refers to the flow of movement from the core and outwards.
Benefits of Pilates
- Pilates helps in weight loss, along with body conditioning and strengthening and flexibility.
- The methodology has been known to help treat measures of physical discomfort and ill health sometimes born out of unhealthy posturing.
- Pilates has successfully helped maintain correct posture and also works as a corrective exercise routine.
- Joseph Pilates had immense respect for the physical prowess of gymnasts and imbibed a few concepts into Pilates. It aims at mental and physical balance, improving muscle control and tone, posture, overall flexibility and grace inculcating it in those who practice regularly.
- Additionally, Pilates during pregnancy is a greatly valuable and beneficial form of exercise, but it should only be practiced under guidance of a fully trained expert.
Get an expert to train you
Of late, the term “Pilates” has entered the mainstream. An unsuccessful intellectual property lawsuit led a US federal court to rule the term “Pilates” generic and free for unrestricted use. Consequently, anyone can offer “Pilates” as a service to the public; which can present distorted and conflicting information about what Pilates is, how it works, and what credentials an instructor should have. Since incorrect fitness routines can potentially offset one’s health, it should only be practiced under expert guidance.
Reviewed by Dr Ankita Verma, Masters in Sports and Orthopaedics Physiotherapy
Photograph by Sazztastical, via Creative Commons
