Pilates is lately one of the most frequent fitness, practiced by common people or celebrities. It is an exercise system that helps on improving muscle strength, flexibility and body awareness. It also helps on breathing, balance and coordination of the body. There are a series of controlled movements performed on the floor or on specially resistance apparatus like the Cadillac, the Spine Corrector, Wunda chair, Reformer and Ladder Barrel.
Pilates is different from jogging, cardio exercises is more a resistance exercise. The key elements of this discipline are spinal alignment and core muscle strength. During your exercises your instructor will teach you to concentrate deeply on your core muscles (abdomen, hips, pelvis and spine), on your breath and on the quality of the movements. All is about “contrology” called by Joseph Pilates, a total control and coordination of body, spirit and mind.
Pilates history
Pilates was created in 1920s, in Germany by the physical trainer Joseph Pilates. Pilates first was practiced by soldiers returning from war to heal their pains and strengthen their bodies. According to Joseph mind and physical health are closely related.