What Does Pilates Involve The Use Of?

Pilates training focuses on core strengthening, which involves the use of the abdominals, particularly the transversus abdominus, as well as the back extensors. To emphasize these core muscles of the trunk, Pilates exercises minimize unnecessary muscle recruitment. Joseph Pilates intended his method to improve overall health and flexibility, build strength, expand breathing and lengthen posture.

History

Joseph Pilates, a German boxer and circus performer, developed his eponymous method of exercise during World War I and opened a studio in New York City in the 1920s, after he emigrated to the United States from England. He drew from yoga, martial arts, Zen meditation and ancient Greek and Roman exercise routines to create a new approach to physical fitness, the "Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies" reports. To train properly, Joseph Pilates emphasized mental concentration, physical control, precision, breathing, centering and flowing movement.

Exercises

Pilates involves the use of specialized equipment, such as the Reformer, the Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Circles, and more --- pieces all designed to provide resistance training without impact. Pilates also involves a series of exercises performed on the floor, known today as "matwork," mat class or mat workout. In total, the Pilates Method includes about 500 exercises, the Blue Sky Pilates website notes, which a trained instructor may adapt to accommodate all levels of fitness or adjust to individual rehabilitative needs.

Evidence

An observational study of a community-based Pilates program, published in 2004 in the journal "Archives of Physical and Medicine Rehabilitation," found improved flexibility in participants. Another study, published in the "Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies in 2007," found a positive effect on abdominal and lower back strength, abdominal muscular endurance and posterior trunk flexibility from Pilates mat exercises. Results of these studies and more confirm that many of the benefits Joseph Pilates intended result from his exercise philosophy.

Approaches

Training and certification programs for Pilates instructors vary in length, depth and focus. The Pilates Method Alliance provides an online database of certified instructors. The PhysicalMind Institute also strives to certify instructors in a codified way. Because Joseph Pilates developed his method to serve a range of individuals, from elite athletes to those with injuries and illnesses, a doctor or physical therapist may be able to help you locate a Pilates instructor who can meet your needs.