Benefits of Pilates

Most people, regardless of age and physical activity level, can benefit form Pilates exercise programs. These programs not only have amazing health benefits, but also increase self-confidence and over all well-being. Why do Pilates exercise programs have such amazing benefits?

First, Pilates strengthens the core of the body. It works the muscles in the back, tummy and rear end. This core affects your entire body. You will be more stable when standing, walking and sitting. You will also have better posture when your core muscles are strengthened. And, of course, a strong core results in a smooth, toned belly!

Once you have your core strengthened, it is actually more comfortable to sit properly. When your posture improves as a result of a Pilates exercise program, you will find that your back is more comfy. If your back is starting to arch, it is likely do to a compression of the spine. This is helped by Pilate's exercises, because they lengthen the spine and encourage you to sit and stand with a straight spine. If that sounds like torture, rest assured that with Pilates, it will be comfortable to sit and stand properly.

Pilates increases your mind body connection. In order to successfully perform a Pilates exercise program, you must have your mind engaged in the activity. You must concentrate on your breathing, which is an important part of Pilates. Some moves require inhaling, while others require exhaling. Proper breathing requires a mental focus that many other exercise programs do not require. Proper focusing abilities are tools you can use in any area of life, not just your exercise program.

Pilates exercises create long muscles. Why is this a benefit? Because instead of working just one muscle group with your exercise, you work the entire body with just about every move. The focus is on controlling your body, not working it to death. This results in a pleasing look that is long, rather than bulked up around large muscle groups. This is a major benefit of Pilates over most other strength training exercise programs.

Because Pilates is a low impact workout, anyone can participate. Those with joint pain and other muscle issues can do the movements to their own level of control. They do not have to worry about impact on those sore muscles and joints, because there is little to no impact with Pilates. From senior citizens to growing children, all can benefit from Pilates exercises.

Finally, working a Pilates exercise program greatly increases your flexibility, while strengthening muscles at the same time. Many strength training programs only focus on strengthening, not flexibility. This creates muscles that are easily injured, because the tendons are so tight that they can easily snap. Pilates provides flexibility training in conjunction with strength training.

If you are ready to take advantage of these amazing health benefits, it is time to start Pilates. Get a DVD that you can use at home and start your exercise program as soon as possible. Pilates DVDs are affordable and easy to find. You can even check one out from your library! When you start working out with Pilates, your body will thank you and you will love the improvement you find in your appearance!

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Pilates