Pilates Exercise: More Than Just a Core Workout
by Jamie Clark
It's a common misconception that Pilates method exercise is really only good
for strengthening and stretching the core muscles of the body. Many people use
it to tone their abs and improve their posture but, in reality, Pilates can do
much more than that. In fact, when combined with an aerobic "cardio" exercise
component (e.g., jogging or Spinning) Pilates can provide you with a fantastic
full-body conditioning workout!
Pilates Exercises for Strength-Training
Many Pilates exercises are great muscle-toners that work large muscle groups
beyond just the abs and lower back. The Plank position, for example, effectively
works the chest and triceps muscle groups. Leg kicks work the glute and
hamstring muscles very well. Free squats are one of the best lower-body
exercises around, working the quadriceps, the hamstrings, and the glutes. And
don't think these are "sissy" strength-training exercises. Many of the world's
top martial artists practice them on a daily basis to toughen their bodies and
reduce the chance of getting hurt.
Pilates Equipment
When it comes to workout equipment, it's hard to beat Pilates devices like
the Reformer and Wunda chair. Not only do they stretch and strengthen muscles --
providing great full-body conditioning -- but they "teach" you how to use the
different parts of your body together efficiently. Efficient body movement is a
key to great overall fitness, injury prevention, and high-level sports
performance. Portable Pilates equipment like resistance bands and the Pilates
circle are also effective fitness tools. They're inexpensive, easy to travel
with, and can easily be incorporated into many of your current
muscle-conditioning routines for increased benefits.
Mind-Muscle Benefits
The muscle-control and mental-focus gained from doing Pilates on a regular
basis can help you in all areas of fitness. This is one reason why so many
professional athletes are now taking Pilates classes. Few exercise system help
you to coordinate your mind and body as well as Pilates. The benefits of this
coordination are increased strength, improved posture, alleviation of pain,
improved mental focus, and (obviously) improved physical coordination... to name
just a few!
Putting It All Together
Simply put, Pilates exercise is a highly-effective method of total-body
conditioning. No, it won't put slabs of new muscle on your body. But it will
make the muscle you have look great, while providing an array of benefits that
typical weight-training can't give you. Throw in some good cardio training and
you've got a complete solution for great fitness and health!
About the Author: Jamie Clark is a fitness expert, researcher, and "health
nut" who enjoys Pilates exercise
and writes for PilatesMethodExercise.com. For more great Pilates exercise
articles visit:
http://www.pilatesmethodexercise.com/blog/category/pilates-articles/
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