One of the reasons
Pilates is so popular is that it allows the muscles to build strength while
becoming leaner and longer, not bulked up like other strength training
workouts. Weight training for example generally shortens the muscles while
Pilates exercises lengthens them with each exercise. This is a result of the
dynamic stretching of the muscles and the muscles working against each other, a
process which is also known as dynamic tension. Another difference that Pilates
exercises offers is that they don't isolate muscles. So in one workout you can
work many more muscles than you would in traditional strength training where
you focus on each muscle individually. Pilates teaches each muscle group to
work together and soon the very hard exercises become fluid and much easier.
Another difference
between Pilates and traditional weight training methods is that in Pilates
exercises the position of the spine is dynamic and moves with each movement to
help the body stay centred and balanced no matter what position it is in. This
also help the spine itself gain strength and flexibility which can be helpful
to eliminate back pain and promote good posture. This being said you should not
stop traditional weight training if it is something you actually do enjoy
doing. In fact, doing Pilates on your off days can actually improve your weight
training abilities and give you the ability to do more precise movements and
reduce chance of muscle strain.
Perhaps why many
people feel that Pilates is such an effective and efficient exercise regimen is
that most of the Pilates exercises allow the body to stay in a low weight
bearing position which takes a lot of the stress off the body and joints while
the muscles work to become stronger and more flexible. As the practice of
Pilates work continues the lengthened and strengthened muscles that now work
together result in overall increased flexibility and a higher stamina level and
more precise movements during other sports and physical activities. Pilates
exercises are designed in a way that allows each muscle in the group being
worked to become fully engaged from end to end and work in the way it is
intended to. This is why the movements are so fluid.
The controlled,
deep breathing used in Pilates work also helps the muscles work more
efficiently as they lengthen and strengthen. Many Pilates experts believe the
breathing, which allows oxygen to get to all of the muscle tissues, actually
helps the toned look last longer when activity is stopped than other forms of
strength training. The mind-body connection involved with the practice of
Pilates helps many practitioners want to continue the exercise and incorporate
it in to their lifestyle. Many people find the practice relaxes them and allows
them to hold poses for longer periods of time.
Each method of Pilates
focuses on different areas and might employ different techniques. Stott
Pilates, for example, uses exercises that are designed to enhance the natural
curves of the spine and stabilize the scapula. Other forms of Pilates focus on
keeping the spine straight and the back flat. While all methods will produce a
noticeable difference in your muscles and your figure overall, there might only
be one method that works best for you and makes you feel the most comfortable.
You might want to try a few different Pilates classes in your area to find one
that works best for you.
It is important
when beginning a Pilates regimen to do the first few sessions with a certified
Pilates instructor to be sure you are doing each exercise correctly. This helps
ensure that each muscle is engaging fully and you are getting the most
effective and efficient workout. Having a certified Pilates instructor guide
you will also help prevent injury, especially if you will be using any of the
Pilates apparatus or machines.
References
Jennifer Classin
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