Get the Body You've Always Wanted With Pilates!
- By:Kathleen Joyce
Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early part of the 20th century.
He was a very frail child and determined to develop a strong attractive body he
studied meditation, yoga, martial arts and other body strengthening activities.
over the years Joseph combined many of these into what is known as pilates.
pilates exercise will help to develop your bodies core strength, meaning your
back, stomach and pelvic muscles. It will also develop your posture and increase
flexibility.
Breathing correctly is very important with these exercises and every one of
them has specific breathing instructions. Joseph believed in the importance
of oxygen for eliminating toxins from the body and making you feel full of energy.
During the exercises you inhale holding in your abdominal muscles, this increases
strength in the stomach area which is great news if you want a flatter stomach!
If you combine pilates with a sensible healthy diet you will lose weight.
In pilates the mind and body unite together in graceful and fluid movements
resulting in a toned body and refreshed, energised, and sharpened mind. It's
very popular with women as it develops lean muscle but doesn't build muscle
mass making you look like a body builder.
It's also becoming more popular with men as not everyone finds bulging muscles
attractive or wants to spend time lifting weights to get fit.
Since pilates doesn't require great physical strength it's good exercise for
older people who have joint or muscular pain to keep in shape. They are low
impact exercises and so no great pressure is put on joints and muscles.
A stronger, fitter body can make all the difference to a senior person who
loves gardening or doing a spot of DIY. It can also keep seniors much more mobile
and independent well into their later years.
Join a class in your local area to get professional instruction, or buy a pilates
dvd or video and follow step by step instructions at your leisure in the comfort
of your home. Set aside time each day for your pilates session and within a
few weeks you will notice a difference. You will feel fitter and healthier and
have more energy.
It will take discipline to maintain your regime as most people lead very busy
lives and it's easy to let things slide. But just keep focused on the new fitter
and healthier you to keep you motivated.
A good idea would be to mark a time in your diary each day as if it were an
appointment. It may then reinforce the message in your mind of the importance
of your pilates session. Get a friend to join you in your pilates sessions and
you then have each other for support.
If you are just starting out just get the basic equipment to start with. You
will need a pilates mat which is thicker than a yoga mat. You need extra cushioning
for your spine and knees during the exercises. You could also buy a pilates
exercise ball and most importantly get some comfortable clothingCopyright August 2007
About the author:
Kathy Joyce can help you to find a new slimmer, fitter and healthier you with valuable tips and resources on weight loss, fitness and nutrition.
http://www.weightlossdietingtips.com