Pilates is a holistic form of exercise that uses mat work, equipment and machines to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. It’s a great workout for people of all fitness levels, from athletes to pregnant women and octogenarians.
Pilates focuses on breathing, posture and controlled movement for the most effective results. It’s also about restoring optimal spinal alignment and muscle balance, says Green. It can help improve your posture and reduce pain and injury.
Breathing is key to Pilates, as it helps you engage the deeper abdominal muscles that are needed for most exercises, according to Green. Each exercise has a specific breath pattern, so you can focus on filling your lungs and exhaling as you move, she explains.
Controlled movement is also a key element of Pilates, as it helps you direct every movement with correct form. This is important for getting better results than just doing lots of repetitions with sloppy form, she says.
Relaxation is a core part of Pilates, as it encourages deep relaxation and a calming effect on the mind and body. This is because you’ll be more focused on each exercise and its movements instead of thinking about all the other things that are going on in your life, she says.
Concentration is another key aspect of Pilates, as it teaches you to be fully present and focused on your exercise, she says. This can be hard for some people, but it’s a necessary skill for getting the most out of Pilates.