10 Frequently Asked Questions About Pilates for Beginners

Joseph Pilates developed a form of exercise called Contrology to focus on a mind-body connection. The mind should control thoughtful, careful movements of the body. When you understand how the body works, you can maximize your efforts because this exercise incorporates the concept of strengthening all of your movements as they are connected to one powerful core.

Pilates use all ranges of motion, so your body becomes a strong unit rather than disconnected parts. Each movement has a desired release or relaxation to create a specific outcome. Doing it should create a somatic experience in which you can judge your performance on how it feels. That is the best way to tell what works. It aims to lengthen muscles rather than shorten them. In turn, your body creates more fluid movement and support for your joints, which is ideal for rehabilitation after an injury.

Getting into an exercise routine is a form of physical therapy. Therefore, it can not only challenge an athletic person, but it can heal an injured one. A variety of athletes use pilates to strengthen their bodies. However, it can also be used after a surgery or injury. Machines used for pilates were originally made from hospital beds with attached springs to help rehabilitate the ill. Talk to your medical provider about low-level impact exercises.

Pilates can strengthen your core muscles, unlike any other exercise. With a deep understanding of how the body works, it is the best work out when it comes to developing core strength. However, it does much more than that. If you already exercise on a regular basis, you might know some of the benefits of working out like alleviating pain, revealing stress and boosting your mood.

You can practice the exercises as often as you want, depending on your lifestyle. If you are injured, you should consult with a trained professional about rehabilitation. In general, you can do pilates one or two times a week to supplement other exercises and reap a cross-training benefit. For example, Pilates is not aerobic, so you will have to add cardio to your work out another day. Luckily, it is a work out that you will not make you feel sore for days on end afterward. You can perform the routine five days a week if you prefer.

You can visit a gym with specialized equipment and a professional trainer to help you get the most out of your pilates session. Each session lasts about 45 minutes or so. However, you can also practice at home if you have a mat and the appropriate video for training. Other equipment might include an exercise ball.

Not only will it help you build muscle in your core, arms, and legs, but it will also improve your flexibility. Pilates can help with joint mobility, too. Even if you already walk, run, or do yoga, the precise and calculated movements of your body can allow you to perform better whether you are a dancer or football player.

If you have been practicing Pilates since before your pregnancy, it might be safe to continue practicing the exercise at a low-level intensity. It is important to check with your medical provider first. As your stomach grows after the first trimester, you may have to adjust certain movements. You should avoid lying on your back because it can reduce blood flow. There are special programs available specifically for pregnant women.

During your routine, you might perform movements like Criss-Cross, The 100, Swan, or Elephant. They look simple but take precision and control. You must focus on your breathing as well. Since it's not aerobic, you might not always work up a sweat. You need to concentrate on your movements rather than constantly moving to build up a sweat.

There are no age restrictions. It does not matter if you are eight or 80; you can benefit from this unique exercise. A range of classes is available from classical to contemporary training. Different props and applications may be used accordingly, but it should always be safe and fun.