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Pilates

Stay Fit and Flexible Using the Pilates Method

Classic Pilates vs. Pilates-Inspired Workouts

Classic Pilates

The story behind classic Pilates is inspirational.

Joseph Hubertus Pilates was a German national who migrated to England before the outbreak of World War I.

To overcome a sickly asthmatic childhood, he had dedicated his life to physical culture. He apprenticed in yoga, studied Zen and explored ancient Greek and Roman physical training regimens – always searching for the best of each discipline.

By 1914, his personal physical condition was so exceptional that he was a professional boxer. Then came the War.

He, along with all other German nationals residing in England, was forced into an internment camp.

The same strength of character that allowed him to overcome his own weak physical condition, gave him the fortitude and determination to make something positive of his internment. His livelihood and freedom had been taken from him. He had no idea how long he would be interned. He might be too old to box by the time he was released.

His solution was to make the most of every day and continue somehow to pursue his dedication to physical culture. It was during this incarceration that Joseph Pilates developed the physical training discipline now known simply as Pilates.

Having no equipment, he started with mat exercises done on the floor and called these exercises “Contrology”.

The emphasis on careful, controlled moves involving the body’s “core muscles” was already there. Joseph said, “Everything should be smooth, like a cat. The exercises are done lying, sitting, kneeling, etc. to avoid excessive strain on the heart and lungs.”

No aerobic workout, this. It’s all about core strength, balance and flexibility.

His efforts and talent were noticed by the camp’s administrators and he was transferred to a camp which had a hospital and rehabilitation center to work with the patients. Not all the patients were able to perform mat exercises so Joseph began devising rehabilitation equipment for the bedridden.

He took bedsprings and rigged them to the bed frames to provide resistance training and movement.

The Pilates machines of today are not much different from these jerry-rigged contraptions. They still consist of spring tension, straps to hold feet or hands and supports for back, neck and shoulder.

A classic Pilates lesson includes both mat work and machine work.

The emphasis on correct form and complementary breathing makes classic Pilates both an excellent fitness discipline and a rehabilitative tool.

Its renewed popularity was brought about primarily by professional dancers who need exceptional posture and core strength to hold positions and move flawlessly from one to another.

A classic Pilates instructor should have a thorough knowledge of the body and movement theory, as well as the ability to adapt the workout for each individual student.

To define, maintain, and support the commitment to training and education of Pilates instructors, the Pilates Method Alliance was formed in 2000 as the international professional organization for the Pilates method of exercise.

Members are required to participate in ongoing training, and must provide documentation to remain in good standing. The PMA has set guidelines and recommendations for teacher training programs, and has established the first National Certification Exam for the Pilates method.

Pilates-Inspired Workouts

Modern fitness trainers have extended Pilates moves so they are more accessible and can be taught to groups of people at once. No bulky machines are needed.

Pilates-inspired group classes are appropriate for people who are already reasonably fit and want to become more so. They are especially beneficial to those with weak backs and/or stomachs, restricted range of motion or poor posture.

The emphasis on building core strength, combined with stretching and controlled breathing is the same as in classic Pilates.

Pilates-type workouts improve the overall condition of the body. Strong “core muscles” flatten the stomach, improve posture and reduce back strain. The focus on slow controlled movements forces the muscles to work continuously to balance and stabilize.

Since most Pilates-type classes do not include aerobic components, students should alternate their Pilates classes with aerobic classes for cardio health.

At the close of a Pilates class, the instructor sometimes asks the class to turn sideways and observe their posture in the mirror. Beginners are frequently amazed to note an improvement after their first class.

With practice, it becomes second nature to hold that posture as you go about your daily life.

"I must be right. Never an aspirin. Never injured a day in my life. The whole country, the whole world, should be doing my exercises. They'd be happier."

- Joseph Hubertus Pilates, in 1965 at age 86

Get fitter and happier with these Pilates-inspired workout routines:

Jennifer Kries' Pilates Method: 3 Dimensional Toning/Precision Pilates/Perfect Mix;

Winsor Pilates Basic 3 DVD Set: Basic, 20 Minute Workout, Accelerated Body Sculpting

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as medical advice.

 

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