Wednesday

Beggining Pilates

By Katie Banner

Developed my Joseph Pilates, Pilates is a fusion of routines from yoga and gymnastics, with breathing exercises and weight training in the purpose of achieving proper body alignment. It's one of the most popular fitness trends nowadays because it can help you make long, lean muscles and have sculpted body. Pilates is believed to not only condition the body, but also the mind. Pilates routines aims to make the abdominal muscles strong specially focusing on the small muscles which are ignored most of the times during weight training. These small muscles support the bigger muscles.

Pilates for beginners can easily be modified according to the body type and fitness levels. It is flexible enough to meet individual needs. Pilates for beginners can be taken in a group but it is advisable to have private lessons to get a good start. However, if you cannot afford to have a private instructor, there are always enough references available about pilates for beginners. You can watch DVDs, read books and get online instructions on pilates for beginners.

Pilates for beginners needs some preparation before taking your first class. Pilates requires the use of mat, which is a bit thicker than a yoga mat. Studios commonly provide them, but you may want to buy your own. You need to keep your body hydrated and keep a water bottle with you. Also, dress for workout should not be too baggy for the instructor to be able to tell how your muscles are engaging to the exercise and determine your bone alignment. Clothes should let you move and stretch freely.

In addition, you must avoid wearing excess accessories during work out. They are unnecessary and can distract you. It may able be dangerous when your long necklace or bracelets get caught up on the equipments. Likewise, long hair should tied back and must not cover your face. Fancy shoes are not needed because pilates is done barefoot. It is also common for pilates studio to request clients not to wear strong scents or perfumes because many people are sensitive to strong scents.

If you want to make your first class easier, it is also advisable to read on basic terminologies that will be used by the instructor during work out. You can usually hear phrases like, "neutral spine" which means that all body parts are well-aligned and your body is in natural position. Another commonly used phrase is, "Zip it up", which means dropping your chest, engaging the pelvic floor muscles and pulling all your abdominal muscles to the center. There are more terms that your instructor needs to explain, but it will be better to read ahead.

More than just a fitness regimen, pilates can give you holistic benefits. Pilates a very effective way to tone your muscles and it allows you to free your mind and spirit as well. Pilates can also be a means to reduce stress and anxiety and helps manage depression. - 26706

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