In the 1920’s, a man by the name of Joseph Pilates observed people doing yoga, and animals moving naturally do at the zoo and came up with a series of movements that allow a human to stretch and build muscle that he called pilates.
Pilates is considered to be a “low-impact, big result” workout regimen. It was intended to be a workout for dancers with injuries.
Knowing it’s intended purpose it should come as no surprise that the series of movement works out the entire body but also tends to focus more on the core muscles and balance.
Pilates is series of movements that are slow, methodical, require a lot of focus and accuracy coupled with controlled breathing.
Because it is not considered cardio, yet it is considered exercise and because it is so adaptable, pilates is perfect for those just starting out in the exercise world or those coming back from an injury.
Pilates is very much like yoga, but it is stepped up a notch.
Pilates is more balance, more muscle toning, more stretching, more flexibility, more mind/body connection.
Pilates can be done as a stand alone exercise if it is challenging enough in itself but many do pilates on their “day off” from a stringent workout routine.
Regardless of why you choose to do pilates, the health benefits are amazing.
Here are 16 amazing health benefits of pilates and 10 tips for beginners.