Pilates is a physical fitness system used all over the world by people of various ages and levels of fitness. Its namesake, Joseph Pilates, suffered from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever as a child, and the journey he took to become stronger led him to develop Pilates while also finding time to be an accomplished performer, gymnast, skier, diver and boxer.
Pilates is a complete body workout which focuses on improving flexibility, strength and balance. It brings together controlled and systematic movements with focused breathing patterns which are influenced by Eastern traditions and philosophies such as yoga and Zen.
The Pilates method of body conditioning workouts aims to develop core strength. It places an emphasis on practical strength, whereas many people who lift weights at the gym might end up leaving out important muscles as they bulk up. Pilates is often performed on specifically designed exercise apparatus, and at Pilates Klinik we specialise in reformer Pilates classes.
Pilates benefits
- Strength, flexibility and stability, particularly of the abdomen and back muscles
- Improved posture
- Increased lung capacity and circulation through breathing exercises
- Better coordination, balance, and core strength
- Improved mind/body connection- Pilates workouts are designed to teach a stronger connection between the mind and the body
Can you do Pilates if you are overweight?
People of any fitness level can start doing Pilates, and we specialise in creating bespoke programs for our clients. No matter where your starting point is, your Pilates workout can be gradually built up as you go. It is an excellent way of rehabbing sports injuries, and many people who take part in competitive sport use it to help prevent injuries in the first place, because the right prehab can mean you avoid having to do any rehab.
Pilates during pregnancy can strengthen the muscles needed as your baby develops.
Pilates during pregnancy
At Pilates Klinik we also offer pregnancy Pilates classes, which target the muscles and functions that are tested in pregnancy as your bump grows. Research suggests that doing pilates regularly can be as effective as doing pelvic floor exercises, and its added focus on the mind also has obvious benefits during a time when your body goes through many changes.
How long does it take to see results from Pilates?
This is a common question we get at Pilates Klinik, and of course the answer depends on what you’re looking to achieve and how often you train. According to Joseph Pilates in his 1945 book, Return to Life Through Contrology:
‘If you will faithfully perform your Contrology exercises regularly only four times a week for just three months, you will find your body development approaching the ideal, accompanied by renewed mental vigor and spiritual enhancement.’
Developing a program like this on your own will be difficult, but we have many different classes that will help you to find your ideal, whether you want to exercise in a group or create a bespoke program with one of our talented instructors. Get in touch today to find out more.
Add Comment