While most people have heard of this type of exercise, many don’t know much about it. Pilates exercise is a type of fitness that has been designed to help both the body and mind to become stronger, more balanced and healthy overall. Initially developed for use in rehabilitation situations, Pilates is now used in fitness centers as a popular type of exercise with an estimated 11 million in the U.S. who swear by it.
Pilates gets its name from its founder, a Mr. Joseph H. Pilates, who based this rehabilitative exercise program on the idea of using the mind to control and manipulate the muscles. It was first used to help WWI veterans rehabilitate and decrease stress physically, mentally and emotionally. Breathing and balance are important ingredients to this technique and are believed by many Pilates supporters and instructors to be key to developing good health and wellness.
The core muscles, such as the lower back, thighs, spine, buttocks, stomach and pelvic muscles are worked consistently through Pilates exercise. The belief is that by focusing on these core muscle groups you will improve your breathing through better posture and balance, allowing your body to better control the flow of blood and oxygen. You won’t see traditional abdominal exercises used in Pilates exercises, but will instead see something that is more similar to what you would expect in a yoga class with a single movement being done or a single pose being held.
Pilates exercise relies on body weight resistance, creating small, tight, lean and well-defined muscles. This is due, in large part, to the emphasis on performing each movement in a deliberate and controlled manner while working the entire body at once. Pilates Mat Exercises, which are offered in the Group Exercise program at The Fitness Clinic, consists of learning 34 basic exercises that are performed on a mat. No specialized equipment is required, making it a great way to continue your routine at home. Pilates Mat Exercises are excellent for women who are pregnant, elderly individuals as well as people who have disabilities or special challenges. While not required, additional props can be used in conjunction with these movements to enhance the exercise such as elastic bands, large exercise balls, small weighted balls, foam rollers and more.
To find out more about Pilates and the Pilates Mat Exercise classes available at The Fitness Clinic, call our experienced and knowledgeable staff at (954) 491-4969.
Chicken Breasts – This awesomely lean protein can be an excellent source of power for your next workout. Containing as much as 35 grams of protein in just a 4-ounce piece of breast meat (no skin!), you can eat your chicken breasts grilled, baked or even boiled – just stay away from fried!
