Pilates is a form of physical fitness that was developed during the early 20th century by one Joseph Pilates. It was originally named The Art of Contrology as it encourages use of your mind to control your muscles. From here it evolved into an exercise program that helps to keep the body balanced and provide full support for the spine as it pays particular attention to the core postural muscles.
A very popular accessory for Pilates is the Pilates Magic Circle, as it offers a good resistance workout that covers many fitness level. Another great advantage of the Pilates Magic Circle is that it is not too expensive and it is portable.
4. Folding knees – these should be accomplished without changing the stability of your pelvic region. So take your neutral position on the floor, breathe in, and as you do so, bring your leg off of the floor, creating a deep fold at your knee – keep your abdominals engaged during this movement. As you start to breathe out return your leg to the original position on the floor, make sure to keep your ab muscles taut and that it is not your thigh that is controlling the move. Your hip must not leave the floor whilst you are doing the folding knee – try and keep your tailbone against the floor and this will help you to do the folding knees correctly.
When commencing Pilates for beginners, it can appear very daunting, as you need to understand the concentration, different exercises, the focus and body awareness that all need to come together in a cohesive form.
Pilates is a fitness trend that leaves you feeling refreshed, alert and with a sense of mental and physical well being. Pilates is the method of body conditioning.
