Definition of Pilates Method

The pilates method It is a physical training system designed by Joseph Pilates, from which it derives its name. Pilates was a citizen German born in 1880 who developed the method for his own benefit, being affected by various disorders that afflicted his health since childhood.

The technique enables both physical conditioning and injury rehabilitation based on practices that integrate the body and mind. It derives from some principles of ancient practices such as yoga and martial arts.

Pilates method, a training philosophy

This method part of the principle that the body has a center of force which is made up of the abdominals, the lower part of the back and the buttocks. Controlling the muscles in these regions makes it possible to strengthen the spine by correcting posture and Balance.

Several types of exercises integrate this method, estimating that there are more than 300. Unlike traditional training methods, the movements must be executed in a manner precise, with a slow but constant rhythm and maintaining a great concentration on the activity of the muscle on

During exercises it is very important to breathe correctly, taking a rhythmic course between inspiration and expiration. As a general rule, inspiration is taken through the nose prior to physical activity, while expiration accompanies the execution of the movements that make up the exercise, the air through the mouth. The breathing It should be of the thoracic type, seeking with each inspiration to expand the thorax while keeping the abdominal muscles tense.

The exercises can be carried out using a series of machines or implements, however it is also possible to carry them out lying on the floor on a mat. These exercises do not use weights or require repetitive exercise, nor do they include strength or endurance activities.

Benefits of the Pilates method for health

Pilates exercises have a large number of beneficial effects on the body, such as strengthening and toning the muscles, improving posture and balance, increasing physical resistance and lung capacity, also constituting a great tool to combat the stress.

The Pilates method is accompanied by a philosophy based on a physical Culture that allows you to stay in shape without the need to carry out strenuous exercises, adopt extreme postures or using excessive loads that end up injuring joints and tissues periarticular.

Virtually anyone can benefit from practicing Pilates, these exercises allow the person to look good and feel good, even safe in the elderly and women pregnant They also help control problems such as back pain, especially in the cervical and lumbar spine, as they allow rigid and contracted muscles to elongate.

This technique does not allow to significantly increase muscle mass, rather it allows to achieve a toned but stylized muscle.

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