Pilates is a form of low impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles while improving postural alignment and flexibility. It is becoming increasingly popular in the last number of years because of its success.
Here are some of the benefits of regular pilates classes:
This is perhaps the most well-known benefit of Pilates. The Core consists of the deep muscles of the back, abdomen and Pelvic floor. These muscles are responsible for stabilising the pelvis and spine during movement and play an important role in preventing back pain. In Pilates, you are taught to engage your core each time an exercise is performed. Activating your core does not mean “Suck your stomach in until you cannot breath correctly”!!!
Women always talk about how they do not want big muscles that are associated with lifting heavy weights. Mat-work Pilates uses body weighted exercises and sometime the assistance of some props. Throughout the movements, there is equal loading on both phases of a muscle contraction- lengthening and shortening. The result is a body like Jennifer Anniston- a keen Pilates advocater.
Pilates exercises load joint efficiently and the focus is on balanced development of muscle strength and flexibility. While it is good to find movement though a variety of activities, many popular workouts often work the same muscles and reinforce repeated muscle patterns ie lifting weights. The end result is muscular imbalances which can lead to injuries. Pilates conditions the whole body, from Head to Toe! No wonder more and more top sports people are turning to Pilates to supplement their training.
Many people spend the majority of their time sitting, often in slouched, forward flexed positions. Pilates encourages body awareness, especially in relation to posture. A good foundation of Pilates training removes the imbalances developed from poor posture. It is always recommended to book a one to one Pilates class to learn about your specific posture and movement patterns – There is “no one size fits all” Work in Pilates!
We have all heard “Sitting is the new Smoking”!
Regular practice of Pilates improves the range of motion available at our joints and helps stretch chronically tight muscles created by sedentary lifestyles.
Pilates is not for the young and flexible people. It is a highly adaptable and progressive mode of exercise. Pilates workouts can be tailored to suit the needs of a wide range of people. With each move you master, there is another variation that is a little bit different and harder. So whether you are new to exercise or a “senior”, a weekend warrior, or elite athlete, Pilates is for you!
Call us on 021-2011159 or email us on info@head2toechiropractic.ie to see what Pilates can do for you! We have a range of private and group classes available at various locations around Carrigaline.