How Pilates is getting people into tip-top shape

The exercise of choice for Hollywood celebrities, Pilates has won over regular people, too. It works for everybody, regardless of age or shape.

The appearance of Pilates core strength exercise created a real revolution in the world of physical fitness.

• Accessible and easy to do, Pilates is now practiced by millions of enthusiasts around the world.
• Couch potatoes, seasoned athletes, convalescing people and pregnant women use this gentle strengthening method to tone their bodies, become more flexible and stimulate the mind.

Invented by Joseph Hubertus Pilates in an internment camp during the First World War, Pilates was an instant success with athletes and dancers, who particularly appreciate the combination of gentleness, strength and flexibility in these exercises.

In the decades since then, the benefits of Pilates have been proven and the technique was made available to the general public and taught far and wide.

• Participants benefit from a considerable improvement in their physical condition through such practices as relaxation, breathing, concentration, control, precision, fluidity and centring.
• In addition, Pilates can relieve both pain and stress, and after one session of 50 to 60 minutes, you may begin to feel a sense of well-being .

• A Pilates class starts with a warm-up session followed by a series of poses involving all the body’s muscles.
• The exercises are done in a precise order, and during each one, the body’s core muscles are stretched and strengthened.

Even though they're gentle, every movement reinforces the abdominal muscles, corrects posture and concentrates energy.

• It is possible to do Pilates at home, by following one of the many books and videos that guide the exercise routine.

A yoga mat and comfortable clothing are all you need for the floor workout.

For many the best way to get familiar with Pilates is to find a school, studio or sports centre where Pilates is taught by qualified instructors.

• As well as learning the correct techniques, you’ll have access to stretching and strengthening equipment that is specifically designed for this type of workout.
• Not only will this equipment help you to master the poses, but you’ll also be able to use it to practise hundreds of different exercises.

Several studies have proven that doing Pilates is an effective way to get in shape. In most cases, researchers agree that Pilates can even improve a person’s overall quality of life.