Pilates was pioneered by a man named Joseph Pilates. Thanks to his upbringing he learnt the many skills and arts necessary to to create the popular discipline Pilates.
What makes Pilates different from other disciplines is that its primary focus is on bringing balance to the body.
Muscular balance means a better posture and improved efficiency in the distribution of energy. When we have shortened muscles due to faulty movement patterns the body uses more energy to move and often leaves you feeling fatigued. Just one of the biggest problems with muscular imbalances are the injuries that come about as a result. Some benign and some more serious such as a slipped disc.
Many major posture related injuries can be prevented by doing Pilates at least twice a week with a certified instructor.
Pilates for specific population:
The benefits of doing Pilates:
- Prevents injuries
- Improves posture
- Improves self confidence
- Changes your body shape
- Tones the whole body
- Allows your body to move much more efficiently
- Improves your breathing
- Enhances your mood
- Lengthens and strengthens your muscles
- Protects your lower back
- Flexible form of training
- Can be used in many other forms of training to ensure good and safe technique
“Pilates builds strength without excess bulk, capable of creating a sleek, toned body with slender thighs and a flat abdomen. (Yeah, we know – who doesn’t want that?)” Balanced Body
Those are just some of the benefits associated with Pilates. Below see how and where you can practice Pilates.
Pilates options at a studio.
- Private on equipment
- Duo on equipment
- Equipment class
- Studio mat class
1. Private equipment
This is OPTIMUM as Pilates was designed to be taught on a “one on one” basis. You get 100% of the instructors attention and it allows you to concentrate and develop body awareness with the help resistance from the Reformer, Cadillac or Chair.
The equipment gives new comers feedback and instead of working against gravity you use springs for resistance whilst keeping the client comfortable.
I personally like the Pilates Reformer for new clients. If the client is not new to Pilates the equipment can challenge them too. Equipment training is extremely versatile.
2. Duo on equipment
You get to use the studio equipment at a discounted rate with a partner. This is advised after you have done some private sessions and have developed the body awareness, strength and mobility necessary. Duo’s are partnered according to each persons strengths and weaknesses. It is also a nice way to train with your significant other or friend.
3. Equipment classes
Clients are able to get the benefits of equipment based pilates at a discounted rate. All clients would have done some Private classes before hand and would have some body awareness with the correct execution of exercises. Clients are paired according to strengths and weaknesses.
4. Studio mat classes
Pilates mat classes at a studio are preferable to a class at a gym. This is due to the number of people. Studio based mat work classes are smaller than gym classes. Studios limit the amount of people and screen them for any injuries or health conditions. As I said earlier Pilates was designed to be taught on a one on one basis. Classes such as step, aerobics or body pump are designed to be large group classes not Pilates. With so much emphasis on technique and precision you want to have the attention of your instructor.
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