If you have ever known anyone who was serious about Pilates, you have also likely heard about their glowing testimonials about the transformative power of Pilates on their overall health and wellbeing. In fact, many studios tout a quote attributed to its founder, the German boxer and strongman Joseph Pilates, that declares: “In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”
While no workout can offer us a new body, devotees say the low-weight resistance training can help our current bodies in important ways by strengthening the core muscles around the spine.
What is Pilates?
A Pilates workout is often performed on a mat or in a chair and includes many strength and flexibility exercises found in other forms of resistance training.
Pilates encourages participants to focus on breathing and cultivate a mind-body connection, paying particular attention to how all movement stems from the core. Exercises are repeated in sets that strategically work the muscles without exhausting them.
Many Pilates workouts also incorporate special equipment, including spring-based resistance machines designed to support the spine and target specific muscle groups. The most popular machine, called the “reformer,” looks like a small bed frame with a sliding platform hooked up to a system of springs, ropes and pulleys.
Scientific research does support an array of impressive health benefits for Pilates. Studies suggest it may help to improve muscle endurance and flexibility, reduce chronic pain and lessen anxiety and depression.
Who can benefit from Pilates?
The short answer is: everyone. Pilates can be tailored to a spectrum of fitness goals, ages and abilities — professional athletes, pregnant women, octogenarians, or anyone looking to improve their balance.
“Anybody can do it,” said Shelly Burkhart, the owner of Shine in Fairfield. “No matter what your level of fitness or health may be, pilates can help you improve your core stability, balance, flexibility and posture.”
If you would like to sign up for a Pilates class at Shine in Fairfield, go to www.shinefairfield.com.
