I recently submitted a short article regarding Pilates to the Kanawha County Women's Magazine. I thought I would share it here as well. Enjoy and stay CENTERED!! WHAT IS PILATES? Pilates is an exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates to align the spine, create a balanced musculature (by strengthening the muscles that are weak and creating flexibility in those that are tight) and improve overall health. Through breath, one engages the mind and body to perform exercises with attention to proper form and correct movement patterns. The benefits of Pilates are numerous--it aligns the spine, helps one develop a leaner and stronger body without building bulk, strengthens the core, improves balance, increases coordination and decreases stress. The exercises may be performed on a mat and on special apparatus designed by Mr. Pilates himself. Both Pilates and Yoga focus on the mind/body connection, flexibility and posture. The disciplines differ with regard to the use of breath. In Pilates, one uses the breath to pull the stomach in, and while performing Yoga one allows the stomach to fill with the breath. Pilates also involves movement, whereas Yoga involves the holding of poses. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GET STARTED? If possible, it is best to take private sessions first. This allows you to really learn how the exercises should be performed, as well as any modifications that might be needed for your body. If you choose to participate in group classes later, you will receive greater benefits from the exercises by knowing and applying the proper technique. HOW OFTEN SHOULD I DO PILATES? Practicing Pilates two to three times a week is ideal, but even once a week will give you benefit. The most important thing is consistency. Amy D. Goins is the owner of CENTERED Pilates in Charleston, West Virginia (304-550-8660 or www.centeredpilates.org). She is both a certified Pilates instructor and a certified TRX® suspension training instructor. |
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