What are Pilates?

Pilates is a disciplined and focused form of exercise intended to strengthen ligaments and joints, as well as increase flexibility and lengthen muscles.

A Pilates exercise move is designed primarily to focus on elongating the body, often used as part of an...

...arthritis exercise program, as well as various therapy and rehabilitation programs.

And, a physician may suggest doing Pilates exercise movements for pregnancy, both as exercises in pregnancy and post pregnancy exercises.

The five hundred controlled movements that Pilates consist of focus on quality of exercise, rather than quantity. Since the main principal of Pilates is that exercise is essentially a mind AND body technique, it is important when you exercise to focus on the muscle groups you are using and to concentrate on your breathing.

What are Pilates Benefits?

Not only are good Pilates exercises beneficial for your back, but also for your total well-being, as they are fantastic stress relievers.

What are Pilates other benefits?

• increased flexibility, agility and balance
• firmer abdominal muscles and stronger back muscles
• improved sleep, with total mind and body relaxation
• are great posture exercises
• builds muscle without "bulking up"
• greatly enhances rhythm and motion
• is a gentle and safe workout

You may also be interested in:
Best Pilates Workout
Different Yoga Positions
Health Benefit of Yoga
Pilates Breathing

Learn How to do Pilates

You may be surprised at the simplicity of a Pilates move. And, to learn that you do not need to go to a Pilates studio for your workout exercise. Pilates can easily be done in your own home Pilates studio!

All it will take is a quiet, relaxing area that you can call your own for around 20 minutes, a good Pilates exercise mat along with a few other props and some comfortable clothing. You'll be all set to begin feeling the benefit of Pilates exercise.

To gain proficiency, whether you are a novice or veteran hoping to do a Pilates workout at home, you should consider taking advantage of the unlimited number of books and videos for Pilates online. Or, stop by your local bookstore and see what they have to offer.