8 Interesting Facts about Pilates that Most People Don’t Know
Pilates is one of the most popular forms of exercise on the planet. Thousands of people practice it and the industry itself makes millions of dollars yearly from courses, equipment, etc. The sport has reached fad status and people feel “cool” saying that they do Pilates.
However, the pilate exercises come from very humble origins and have an interesting history. Most enthusiasts have no idea about Pilates beyond the pilates moves, mats and media. This article will enlighten you about Pilates and you will look upon it with new found respect.
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1. Who created Pilates
Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900’s. Joe was a self-defence instructor who happened to find himself interned during World War 1. During his internment, he created this unique system of resistance training with whatever equipment was around. His method enabled bedridden people to train and their improvement in strength and stamina proved the efficacy of the Pilates system.
Pilates ball exercises
2. What is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise system that focuses on working the body through a wide range of motion. Both sides of the body are worked equally and in unison to attain balance and coordination. This is very different from body-building where in many cases each side of the body is trained separately leading to imbalances within the body.
Pilates also focuses on the core of your body which Joseph felt was the powerhouse of the body.
3. Is Pilates better than other exercises?
Better would not be the correct term since different exercises have different benefits. Pilates is unique in the sense that even though it is safe and a non-impact method of exercise, it can be gruelling.
Pilates work focuses on moving the body through a range of symmetric and even motions while focusing on strengthening your core. Many people who engage in other forms of exercise such as running, swimming, weight training, etc. still find Pilates challenging because it focuses on the “powerhouse” area that is often neglected.
4. What is the “powerhouse”?
This is actually one of the most important concepts in Pilates and it’s more than just about core training. The powerhouse area is located from the bottom of your ribcage until your hip line. The lower back muscles, pelvic region, glutes and abdominal muscles are all a part of the powerhouse.
Pilates trains these muscles to work in unison and stabilize the trunk of your body making you stronger, more stable and dynamic.
Pilates is different from most exercises out there because it’s non-impact and safe, and it really works on using the body as a whole.
Pilates ring exercises are very popular…
5. Pilates exercises have a reason behind them.
Many Pilates
This external workout is also an internal workout that causes an increase in blood circulation through the body and up to the extremities. It would be a good idea to research what are the effects of each Pilates move you do.
6. Pilates workouts can be cardiovascular.
Pilates can be a cardiovascular workout but this is usually the case for the advanced practitioners who are able to do the moves more fluidly and can transition between moves fluidly. If you’re a beginner, you will be better off engaging in cardio sessions separately from your Pilates workouts.
7. Pilates does not benefit everybody
Nothing is perfect for everybody. Some people may have physical impairments or previous injuries that prevent them from executing the Pilates moves safely. In cases like these, it would be best to avoid Pilates.
It could be argued that Pilates may assist to improve certain old injuries, etc. This may be true and it all depends on what the nature of your injury or problem is. In any case, it would be best to consult your doctor first before engaging in any exercise.
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8. Pilates will transform your body
Many people have reported that their posture and body shape have changed after they started doing Pilates. This is true. The Pilates moves will strengthen your abdominal wall and your paunch may slowly disappear as your muscles get better at holding your stomach in.
Your back will get stronger and you will stand more upright, hunch less and even your muscles that have been stretched and lengthened will look more toned.
These are some of the interesting facts about Pilates. There are many more and if you really love Pilates, you may look up all the interesting facts and theories online.
Next Page: Can You Learn Pilates from a Video or Do You Need an Instructor?
