INTRODUCING PILATES WITH SCOTT

WHAT IS PILATES?

Pilates is a form of exercise which concentrates on strengthening the body, helping to improve posture, balance and flexibility. Similar to yoga, Pilates focuses on a mind-body connection whereby the mind addresses the breathing and the way the body moves. The chance of injuries is much lower in Pilates than other more strenuous forms of exercise.

WHO'S IT FOR?

Pilates can be modified for the individual whether it be a challenging workout or something more rehabilitative or gentle. It’s suitable for the first-timer to the more enthusiastic, athletic exerciser. Exercises can be basic, to begin with and then progress to more advanced moves once the foundations have been established.

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It’s always advisable to seek advice from a health professional before commencing any form of exercise - especially if you haven’t exercised for a while, are pregnant or have health problems. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PILATES?

Improved Posture - Pilates exercises require body alignment which can help alleviate lower back pain. With continual practise, Pilates will help you gain and maintain good posture. 

Improved Muscle Tone - When first doing Pilates you may feel muscles you never knew existed! After overcoming the initial soreness you will find your body becomes stronger and more toned. This is especially important for those with sedentary lifestyles or older people as muscle tone reduces with age and inactivity!

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Flatter Abdominal (belly) Muscles - Pilate exercises whilst toning the body focus on strengthening the core which helps with a flatter belly.

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Improved Balance - As the body becomes more anatomically aligned with improved upright posture, this itself will help with balance and stability.

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Improved Flexibility - Sedentary lifestyles along with active ones can lead to tight, immobile bodies. Ageing plays a factor in the loss of flexibility however the exercises in Pilates help to promote greater mobility and flexibility which can minimise injuries.

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Reduce Stress Levels - The focus and attention needed whilst executing the moves coupled with the breathing will help you switch off from your day to day responsibilities. This concentration is an excellent way to reduce stress levels. 

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Improved Sense of Well-Being - Pilates brings balance to both mind and the body which gives an overall sense of well-being.

DOES PILATES HELP WITH WEIGHT LOSS?

Pilates exercises can be done gently or more rigorously to help muscle strength and tone. Not only is it great for keeping the body mobile and active, but it helps with maintaining a healthy weight and depending on level and frequency of the exercise, weight loss too! When focussing on effective weight loss you should combine Pilates with a healthy eating plan and aerobic exercise like swimming, cycling or walking.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PILATES & YOGA?

Both disciplines work as a good combination as they both focus on a mind - body connection. There are several styles of yoga however the essence of this approach is spiritual well-being with a relaxing form of exercise. Pilates tends to be more physically orientated with a focus on strengthening and toning.

CAN PILATES HELP WITH PHYSICAL THERAPY?

Many physiotherapists, athletes, dancers and sports professionals use Pilates as a form of physical therapy. Since Pilates is a low impact exercise it has proved effective for injuries and illnesses such as; Chronic neck, back, hip or knee pain, Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis etc..