There’s never a bad time to add some variety to your workout routine. If you’re looking for a low-impact, high-benefit new exercise, Pilates exercises are just the thing you need. It provides a wide range of benefits to anyone who practices them, like improved balance, increased muscular strength, and superior flexibility. So, what is Pilates, and where should you start? Let’s take a look.
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is a form of stretching exercise developed by German physical trainer Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. It focuses on core muscles, strengthening the body from the inside out. As he had a very frail frame in his childhood, he wanted to find ways to increase his flexibility and durability through exercise. The result, named after him, soon took the world by storm, primarily as a way for injured athletes to make a better recovery. However, it then spread to the wider public as well, and became a staple in the fitness routines of countless people.
Pilates Benefits
While we touched on the benefits of Pilates briefly, let’s go into a bit more detail. First and foremost, it is useful in increasing flexibility, recovering from injuries, and preventing injuries in the future. In addition, it’s easy to get started, only requiring a few simple pieces of equipment, a bit of time, and a solid routine. As it’s not high-impact, it’s much easier to get started with Pilates than with other exercises, allowing you to slowly ramp up the difficulty as you become more confident.
How to Do It
If you’re interested in getting started with Pilates exercises, just start out with some simple stretches in two to three twenty-minute sessions a week in addition to your regular strength training exercises. One of the most important parts of effective Pilates exercise is control and precision in each of your movements, so don’t be afraid to take it slow, especially if you’re new to this style of exercise. With enough time, effort, and dedication, however, you’ll notice you feel stronger, fitter, happier, and healthier, so don’t be afraid to stick with it!
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