Introduced in the 20th century by Joseph Pilates, Pilates is a form of exercise that concentrates on strenghtening and tonning the body. It centers on the core muscles of the body and is based on the concepts of concentration, precision and control. Naming it Contrology, Joseph Pilates believed it to be way, wherein, the mind controls the muscles. The main essence of this fitness regimen is to keep the body in a balanced posture, providing the esssential support to the spine and fortifying the deep torso muscles. However, you need to learn the basic aspect, before doing Pilates. In the following lines, we have provided some tips for doing Pilates exercise.
How To Do Pilates
Materials Required
- Ball or Barrel (optional
- Pilates Mat
- Reformer (optional)
Dierctions
- The foremost step towards doing Pilates would be to keep the spine in a nuetral position. Keep it in between flattened and arched posture; else you might develop back problems in future.
- Ensure that the head is parallel to your spine, while doing Pilates. This would help you prevent your head curled under your body. Imagine your head to be a part of your neck and spine.
- To increase the strength and stamina of the body, direct your exercises to the group of core abdominal muscles, which are also known as the 'powerhouse' of your body.
- The best way to target the core abdominal muscle would be to perform simple Pilate's floor exercises. For this, slowly raise your spine from the floor. In the process, maintain the breathing and pulling of the abdominal muscles inwards.
- You might also use reformers, a piece of Pilate's equipment, for toning up the muscles in the body. These would help you toughen and lengthen your muscles, without making you appear bulky.
- Pilate's ball or barrel can be used for improving the postures. These would help you correct the posture, increasing your balance and making you more agile.
- Once you have mastered the basics, lower your legs during the exercises. In case of any Pilate exercise, the lower you put your legs, the better stamina you would develop to maintaining your body balance.