Sunday, August 16, 2009

Introducing Joseph Pilates and His Creation




Pilates is a method of exercise and physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body. With systematic practice of specific exercises coupled with focused breathing patterns, Pilates has proven itself invaluable not only as a fitness endeavor itself, but also an important addition to professional sports training and physical rehabilitation of all kinds.

The six principles of Pilates are: concentration, control, centering, flowing movement, precision and breathing.

Practiced with consistency, Pilates yields numerous benefits. Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep breathing. Strength and flexibility throughout the entire body. Coordination-both muscular and mental, are major components in an effective and successful Pilates program. Posture, balance, and core strength are all increased. Bone density and joint health improve. You will feel the numerous positive effects after your very first session. You may feel your abdominal muscles challenged for the first time ever!!!

The equipment consists of spring tension, straps to hold feet or hands, supports for the back, neck and shoulders. Exercises can be performed in a variety of positions-sitting, lying down, kneeling, or standing. Endless opportunities. There is also a jump board for a cardio workout-just imagine jumping on a mini trampoline while lying on your back. Amazing support for the back and neck and amazing strength for the legs and abdominals.

The following is list of the many benefits of Pilates according to Rael Isacowitz from his book "Pilates."
.Develops every aspect of physical fitness"strength, flexibility, coordination, speed, agility, and endurance.
.Heightens body awareness
.Enhances body control
.Teaches correct muscle activation
.Corrects posture and alignment
.Facilitates optimal function of the internal organs
.Improves balance and proprioception
.Focuses on breathing and its related physical and psychological benefits
.Offers a vehicle for concentration and focus
.Promotes relaxation and the release of tension
.Helps keep musculature and bone structure in an optimal state
.Benefits pregnant women by providing a safe, effective, non-impact exercise activity
.Serves as cross-training for athletic pursuits and daily activities
.Distributes body mass more aesthetically (people report looking and feeling slimmer)
.Provides a path to inner harmony through a finely tuned body

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