What Are The Benefits Of A Pilates Workout?

The Pilates workout has progressively grown in popularity since its basic principles were introduced by founder Joseph Pilates. "Precision and a gentle flow of movement, as well as the highest possible degree of tension release and natural deep-breathing are the basis for a typical Pilates workout," says author Antje Korte in the book "Pilates Fitness Training for Body and Soul." Pilates workouts are beneficial to your body and mind.

Muscular Balance

Your muscles may become unbalanced because of constant asymmetrical use of your body, such as sitting for prolonged periods and carrying heavy bags around every day. Pilates helps restore the natural balance of your muscles by stretching shortened muscles and strengthening weak muscles, resulting in overall muscular balance. A balanced muscular system is at a much lower risk for pain and injury than an unbalanced one.

Flexibility and Fitness

Pilates incorporates total body stretching and strengthening movements. Using active stretching techniques to gently release tight muscles, Pilates will help improve your muscle elasticity and joint mobility. Pilates workouts use your own body weight to provide resistance while improving your muscular strength and endurance. Perform Pilates workouts regularly for a toned and healthy looking body.

Core Muscles

All Pilates movements originate from the core, which also is known as the powerhouse. Your powerhouse is the area between your chest and pelvis--it links all the parts of your body together. Pilates workouts put so much emphasis on engaging the powerhouse that it would be impossible not to develop strong, sturdy core muscles.

Relaxation

Every exercise in a Pilates workout begins with tension release. Through proper breathing, body alignment and fluid movements, you will become very aware of your body's movements through space. You should begin to notice every time you unnecessarily tense a muscle during your workout. This mind-body connection carries over to your everyday life so you immediately notice when you hunch your shoulders or tense your neck. As soon as you become aware of your action, simply breathe and relax--this makes it easy to keep tension and stress at bay.

Safe and Low-Impact

Pilates is a safe and low-impact form of exercise. It is suitable for almost anyone. Most Pilates exercises are performed reclining, sitting or lying down, so they're suitable for older adults, as well as people with disabilities or injuries. Your bones and joints are protected during the fluid, controlled movements of a Pilates workout.