What is Pilates?
It is a physical fitness system that was developed in Germany, United States and United Kingdom by German-born Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. It is also a form of body conditioning routine that helps the body achieve flexibility, lean muscles and strength and endurance in the arms, legs, hips, the back and abdominals. It is a mind-body workout combining concentration and breathing with slow, deliberate but precise movements. As an exercise, it emphasizes breathing to relieve stress and allow the flow of oxygen to the muscles, and improve balance and coordination. Having two groups—the Classical and Authentic Pilates, and the Contemporary and Modern Pilates—the Pilates system uses apparatuses or equipment, mostly with springs, on which
exercises are mostly resistance training routines.
´. The set of larger equipment consists of the Reformer, Chair, Barrel, Tower and Cadillac. The set of small equipment has the Magic Circles, Fitness Bands, Exercise Balls, Pilates Ladder, Spine Corrector, and the Mats. These are designed to help the exerciser to (a) Do good workout with the necessary movement, (b) Make the workout focus on breathing techniques, (c) Achieve grace and good posture, (d) Build strength with no bulk, and (e) Complete the workout with ease and on schedule.
The larger Pilates Machines, which are stationary in one place, have their individual functions for the fitness program. The Pilate Reformer, which is a system of springs, pulleys and straps, is a fixture in Pilate studios and is used to develop flexibility, torso stability and postural alignment, and strength of the core. The Pilates Chair is used for multiple exercises aimed at strengthening the core muscles. Also known as Wunda or Stability Chair, it is a great addition to one’s physical fitness routine because numerous exercises can be performed on it. The Pilates Tower is usually attached to the Reformer or to the wall, performing supportive functions. The Pilates Cadillac consists of a padded bench with bars above it, and straps for holding the feet. It is used for core strength stability and control. The Pilates Ladder is used mainly for extension and flex exercises for the back while the Spine Corrector helps correct spine alignment. The Pilates Mats are used in exercises performed on the floor. The Pilates Balls enhance workout through their various types including the Gym Ball, Stability Ball, Fit Ball, and the so-called Swiss Ball. Several props are also used in contemporary Pilates such as Small Weighted Balls, Rotating Disks, and Resistance Bands.
Most of these pieces of
equipment and machines are built to the specifications of the late Joseph Pilates. Even the style of teaching the Pilates exercises is done close to his original works and in accordance with the Pilates Principles of Concentration, Control, Center, Flow, Precision and Breathing. In using the Pilates equipment, however, exercisers are reminded to make sure that they select the right equipment for their workout. It must always be remembered that the equipment’s shape and size differ from one equipment to the other.
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