What is Pilates?
Pilates has a multitude of benefits which are valuable to everyone and everybody. Improve mobility with range of motion movements, increase flexibility with assisted stretching, strengthen your muscle from top to bottom with an emphasis on building a strong foundation from which to move, and gain more stability by stimulating the neuromuscular system. Pilates utilizes over 600 exercises and variations using specialized equipment exercises on the reformer. The Pilates reformer is a popular pulley system perfect for beginners, intermediate, or advanced fitness levels. Exercises can be progressed or regressed based on an individual’s needs at the time. The whole-body exercise method was specifically designed to improve functioning of daily activities and overall livelihood by combining movement and breath work engaging smaller and deeper stabilizing muscles of the body. For those seeking weight loss, Pilates has the potential to alter body shape through toning with emphasis on body alignment and improvement of posture. This exercise regime is also extremely beneficial for pregnant women, alleviating pressure from the body by targeting the glutes, core, & pelvic floor. A common misconception people often have is that core strength is the primary goal of Pilates. Although there is a large emphasis on core, employing that core strength to gain functional and sustainable movement patterns throughout the body is the end goal. Practicing Pilates with consistency will allow you to move with more vigor and freedom while experiencing less pain.
What are some of the more specific benefits?
