Pilates -- What is it and how to do it properly

Pilates is a form of exercise that targets the core of the body. It works on the abdomen, the back and the hips while using the entire body. It increases flexibility, strength, endurance, coordination, and improves posture. The exercises are slow and controlled and each exercise uses the muscles to its maximum capacity. Since pilates utilizes all the muscles in the body, it is more intense and increases the level of resistance in the body. 

Joseph H Pilates, the founder of the pilates methodology was born in Germany. He worked as a nurse in the First World War and during that he developed exercise methods and equipment for injured and immobilized war patients. He believed that physical and mental health are correlated and designed exercise programs to improve concentration, precision, control, breathing, and flowing movements.

Pilates can be done using a number of equipments; however, a mat is sufficient. A few things one must keep in mind while practicing pilates are:

Be comfortable: wear comfortable clothes. You need to do pilates barefoot preferably on a mat. If you are uncomfortable or feel the strain, you should stop immediately. Initially, do not force yourself to do ant posture that you cannot handle.

Breath easy: pilates combines the moves with easy breathing. You need to concentrate on your muscles and unite your mind and body to relieve stress.

Get your heart rate going: you may work the exercises quickly to get your heart rate going.

Be consistent: avoid quick jerky movements and let your body move in a flow.

Enjoy while you do it: make the regime diverse and interesting and enjoy every step of what you are doing.

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