Everyone’s heard of Pilates right? It’s been around for a while now (since the 1920’s). To be honest when I first heard about Pilates I thought it was just another one of the many fitness fads that would come and go. That was until my running obsession was interrupted by injury! I was forced to take a bit of my own Physiotherapy advice and give Pilates a try and from that day on I was hooked.
The most common answer I get to my question, ‘have you done pilates before?’ is no but I’ve done yoga. Well, that’s like comparing apples and oranges. Pilates focuses on core stability. It works all those small muscles that your body has forgotten we have but need to use. The ones that stabilise your joints and work to create a ‘powerhouse’ to take the load off your spine. While Pilates can be performed on a mat the rolls Royce of Pilates is the Reformer. This machine uses different spring resistance to challenge, strengthen, stretch and lengthen muscles.
Pilates is for EVERY-body
No Pilates is not just for women. I’m sure some people think that Pilates is airy-fairy just lying around the floor. I challenge anyone with that perception to a 1 hour reformer class! In fact Pilates was actually developed by a male, Joseph Pilates back in the 1920s for the army and athletes.
Men, women, children, athletes, elderly people, pregnant women….. anyone can (and in my opinion SHOULD) do Pilates. The amazing reformer and it’s spring resistance mean endless exercise combinations and difficulty levels.
Injuries
All injuries can be accommodated which makes it the perfect mode of cross training. This low impact exercise is also the perfect way to rehabilitate post injury. Pilates is also the perfect way to prevent many injuries through addressing muscle imbalances, improving muscle strength, flexibility, balance and even body awareness. In the same way it can lead to improved athletic performance.
Just want a solid workout
If it’s easy, it’s probably not pilates! Pilates should be challenging, you should feel that deep muscle burn. It works all those problem areas- abs, butt, inner thighs, love handles and backs of the arms. You think your squats are working your butt? Wait until you discover those deep glue muscles!
Like any type of exercise correct technique and expert instruction is critical. It’s often a good idea to do a one on one session with a Physiotherapist to teach you the basics and address your specific goals. Health fund rebates apply too!
If you haven’t tried it make 2017 the year of Pilates. Your body will love you for it
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