Sophie’s Tips – The Benefits of Pilates

Pilates can really make a difference in your health without taking a toll on your body

Pilates is a refreshing mind-body workout.

By emphasising proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely in tune with your body. You actually learn how to control its movement.

In Pilates the quality of movement is valued over quantity of repetitions. Proper breathing is essential, and helps you execute movements with maximum power and efficiency. Last but not least, learning to breathe properly can reduce stress.

Develop a strong core – flat abdominals and a strong back

Pilates exercises develop a strong core or centre of the body. The core consists of the deep abdominal muscles along with the muscles closest to the spine. Control of the core is achieved by integrating the trunk, pelvis and shoulder girdle.

Learn how to move efficiently

Pilates exercises train several muscle groups at once in smooth, continuous movements. By developing proper technique, you can actually re-train your body to move in safer, more efficient patterns of motion – invaluable for injury recovery, sports performance, good posture and optimal health.

It can be gentle or challenging

Pilates is an extemely flexible exercise system. Modifications to the exercises allow for the exercises to be adapted to suit anyone and they can be progressed safely to challenge the body.