Pilates Training For Exercise And Well-Being

By James Spann


Pilates training is an exercise regime that focuses on mind, body and spirit. It involves strengthening the central core in the body which is developed around the abdomen and lower back and works out toward the limbs and extremities. Those who may find these exercise routines especially helpful include mothers who are attempting to reduce post-baby weight, athletes who need to gain strength and reach higher levels of fitness and the older generation who are seeking an easily modified exercise program that will suit their individual needs.

This program has a very interesting and intriguing history attached to it. It was developed by Joseph Pilates, a German citizen. The routines he developed were used in rehabilitating former prisoners of war and returning soldiers. Dancers in various factions used his moves to gain grace, muscle and stamina.

Making this activity part of your daily regime will strengthen your entire body and give you a along lean look. It will also give individuals more mobility and flexibility if exercises are done on a consistent basis. It is a low-impact activity and will help improve posture and assist in reducing back pain.

Older individuals and those who have not exercised for long periods of time can alter the exercise routines to fit their capabilities and as they grow stronger and more confident in their skills, they can add more difficult moves to their daily exercise sessions. It can be easily combined with a regimen of walking, running or weight lifting.

Most of these exercises are performed on the floor, either on a mat or soft surface. The program does have specific exercises that can be done on machines that were invented by the founder but they are bulky and expensive. Some workout facilities may have some of them in their inventory - ask to see if you can use them.

Seek out a nearby class in your city. A complimentary session may be offered if you wish to try this type of regimen. If classes are not available in your area, DVDs can be readily purchased or rented for home use. You may even wish to use a DVD for the first few sessions to see if it is something you would like to continue doing. Enlist the companionship of a friend or relative to make the sessions more interesting.

Including this along with your other daily routines will increase your focus and concentration as well assist with balance and coordination. You will become more flexible and alert as well as feel much younger than your age. Your body will begin to slim down and breathing will become deeper and more effective.




About the Author: