The benefits of pilates have been long recognised for their improvement of fitness of both body and mind. Learn about how it improve general fitness, health conditions and overall well-being. Pull up a chair, grab a cup of coffee and in the next few minutes you will understand why you should consider making it part of your daily exercise routine.
In the following paragraphs, we are going to look at three crucial benefits of pilates that you should take into account before looking at other exercise methods. First we will look at how pilates can help you in the area of general fitness. Next we will learn about the health conditions that pilates can relieve and improve, then finally let’s look at how practicing pilates can benefit your overall well being.
So let’s get started in the area of general fitness. Improvement of mobility and flexibility of the spine is one of the key benefits of pilates Osteopaths and physiotherapists often recommend it for the results it can deliver for muscle tone and flexibility. Not only can it deliver improved health of joints by improving mobility, it can enable more strength and fitness in the surrounding muscles. This makes it ideal for those with back pain, muscular pain and those looking to improve bone density. It is used by many sportspeople and athletes as a route to optimum athletic performances.
The breathing exercises delivered by pilates can deliver improved efficiency of the lungs with expansion of them. This can result in improved circulation as more oxygen can enter the bloodstream. With improved circulation, elongated muscles and an improved outlook brought on by relaxation, it is not surprising that millions of people have taken up this exercise as part of their regular exercise routine.
Many health conditions can be addressed by these exercise. Osteoarthritis is one of the health conditions that can be helped with the use of regular pilates exercises. Better balance and coordination in the elderly is key to preventing falls and the improvement in bone density is crucial at this time of life. As the exercises are very slow and low impact, this form of exercise is ideal for those expecting a baby or who are in the post-natal period. In addition the low impact is ideal for those suffering from aches and pains, as there are no sudden movements involved.
Other health conditions that pilates can benefit are: scoliosis, osteoporosis, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease
Finally, let’s look at what the reported results are in the area of overall well-being. Many people who practice pilates have stated that they look better and feel better. This could be due to the relaxation attained by the meditative state of focusing on breathing and stretching techniques. Pilates is believed to integrate body, mind and spirit with a focus on body awareness.
Pilates is easy to do at home and even whilst traveling. Instructional DVDs can be purchased for use on a laptop or a television with clear instructions about how to realise the benefits of pilates by stretching and breathing.
