Pilates has become a common exercise program over the past several years. For decades it was used by many dancers and Hollywood actors, but today it has grown so popular that it is offered by many gyms and fitness centers as a class. Though it seems to be the hot new trend, Pilates was begun many years ago by a man with a vision.
Pilates
Pilates is a form of exercise that builds strength and improves flexibility. Pilates strengthens muscles through controlled movements. The objective of Pilates is to achieve balance by combining calmness and being centered with motion and muscle tone. Pilates can be done as mat exercises or with equipment.
History
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Joseph H. Pilates, born in Germany in 1880 was diagnosed with asthma and rickets, a condition of abnormal bone formation, as a child. Pilates strove to overcome many physical limitations by studying a number of mind/body disciplines like boxing, gymnastics, skiing, yoga and Zen meditation. It became his goal to create an exercise program that left the body feeling energized rather than exhausted. He opened a fitness studio in New York City in the 1920s where most of his clients were prominent dancers, actors and athletes. Pilates never wrote down his ideas, but passed on the fitness regimen through disciples who passed it on to those instructing today.
Studied Benefits
Research by Michele Olson presented at the American College of Sports Medicine indicated that Pilates has several benefits including a high level of calories burned, high-intensity exercises for abdominal muscles and improved flexibility. Olson and her team found that a 30-minute session of Pilates at an intermediate level burned 180 calories. Continuing the workout burned an additional 90 calories every 15 minutes thereafter. When comparing Pilates to standard crunches, the effect on abdominal muscles was roughly the same. However, the teaser exercise and roll-up challenged the abs much more. The obliques were also targeted more with Pilates than regular crunches.
Other Benefits
People who do Pilates report other benefits such as improved posture, balance, coordination and circulation. Some say it can alleviate back and neck pain. Because a lot of Pilates is a series of stretches, it can help prevent injury. It is low-impact, making it easy on the joints and relatively easy for most people to participate in including the elderly and rehabilitation patients. If you suffer from any major health problems or are a surgical patient, always consult your doctor before beginning a Pilates program.
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