Health and Wellness Tips

Pilates Session Secrets

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Have you ever considered joining a Pilates class?  It's a fun and extremely effective program that's really quite easy to perform. That's why for over 80 years, people of all ages and fitness levels have made Pilates sessions their exercise programs of choice. Pilates (pronounced Puh-LAH-teez) has long been considered to be a most effective and unique method of body conditioning.  The program integrates muscle control, proper breathing, flexibility, strength training, and body awareness.  Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, a boxer and performer in 1920's England, the Pilates Method has since gone mainstream.  From Hollywood stars to your neighbors and coworkers, it seems that everyone is discovering the wonders of Pilates. If you are considering joining Pilates sessions, there are a few basics that you need to understand.  You'll be told that the entire method is comprised of more than 500 exercises.  It's true, but don't let this fact deter you.  These are relatively simple, controlled movements that are generally performed very slowly.  These movements are coupled with intense concentration, and require few repetitions.  The primary aim of these controlled movements is to strengthen and stabilize the so-called "powerhouse of the anatomy", which is comprised of the buttocks, lower back and abdomen.  When these core muscles are strengthened, the rest of the body is able to move freely. Because the fitness Pilates Method has a series of controlled movements, you can't expect to learn all of the basics in short time.  It's important to pace yourself.  Certified Pilates sessions instructors will recommend that you begin with a one-on-one instructional session with your teacher.  Although many of the Pilates sessions offered in fitness centers and studios incorporate only the mat classes, try to find one that features specialized Pilates apparatus.  This is, without doubt, the best way to reap the full benefits of your Pilates sessions. Most typical Pilates sessions last 45 minutes to an hour.  Your workout should be tailored to your individual needs, set forth by your certified Pilates instructor.  Don't worry about expensive gear or fitness clothing, but dress in comfortable attire.  During your initial Pilates session, your instructor will introduce you to the mat movements or the apparatus, and he or she will provide you with some understanding of the innate strengths and weaknesses of the human body.   Together, you and your instructor will formulate your personal goals. If you are able to find a fitness center that uses apparatus in your Pilates sessions, the first piece of equipment you are likely to encounter is the Universal Reformer.  This unusual contraption resembles a single bed frame with a sliding, padded carriage.  There are adjustable springs that regulate tension and resistance, as well as a series of bars, cables, pulleys and straps that you are required to push or pull with your hands and feet. Guided by your instructor, you will begin with the most basic, simplest movements of the Pilates Method.  Gradually, you will be asked to progress to more advanced exercises.  Eventually, you will start by lying down, with your back on the carriage, your shoulders in front of the two supports and your feet placed on a foot bar or plate.  From this position, you will be required to perform a series of abdominal or leg strengthening Pilates movements.  As you gain strength, you'll begin to work with your hands and knees as well.  As with all Pilates exercises, every movement is completed very slowly and smoothly. After spending some time on the Reformer, your fitness Pilates instructor will introduce you to the other pieces of Pilates equipment. As you improve, the time spent on the apparatus will seem to go by faster.  Always remember, it's the quality of your movements that is crucial. Those new to Pilates sessions will find that it can take about six weeks of twice-weekly classes for the subtleties of the movements to become second nature.  Once you have thoroughly learned the techniques on the equipment, however, you'll be able to attain similar results by simply working out with Pilates mat exercises. If you're looking an exercise program that's fun and affective, consider Pilates.  You'll be among the millions of people who have been achieving fitness, balance and overall wellness for nearly 90 years.

 

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