It's a common misconception that Pilates method exercise is
really only good for strengthening and stretching the core
muscles of the body. Many people use it to tone their abs and
improve their posture but, in reality, Pilates can do much more
than that. In fact, when combined with an aerobic "cardio"
exercise component (e.g., jogging or Spinning) Pilates can
provide you with a fantastic full-body conditioning workout!
Pilates Exercises for Strength-Training
Many Pilates exercises are great muscle-toners that work large
muscle groups beyond just the abs and lower back. The Plank
position, for example, effectively works the chest and triceps
muscle groups. Leg kicks work the glute and hamstring muscles
very well. Free squats are one of the best lower-body exercises
around, working the quadriceps, the hamstrings, and the glutes.
And don't think these are "sissy" strength-training exercises.
Many of the world's top martial artists practice them on a daily
basis to toughen their bodies and reduce the chance of getting
hurt.
Pilates Equipment
When it comes to workout equipment, it's hard to beat Pilates
devices like the Reformer and Wunda chair. Not only do they
stretch and strengthen muscles -- providing great full-body
conditioning -- but they "teach" you how to use the different
parts of your body together efficiently. Efficient body movement
is a key to great overall fitness, injury prevention, and
high-level sports performance. Portable Pilates equipment like
resistance bands and the Pilates circle are also effective
fitness tools. They're inexpensive, easy to travel with, and can
easily be incorporated into many of your current
muscle-conditioning routines for increased benefits.
Mind-Muscle Benefits
The muscle-control and mental-focus gained from doing Pilates on
a regular basis can help you in all areas of fitness. This is
one reason why so many professional athletes are now taking
Pilates classes. Few exercise system help you to coordinate your
mind and body as well as Pilates. The benefits of this
coordination are increased strength, improved posture,
alleviation of pain, improved mental focus, and (obviously)
improved physical coordination... to name just a few!
Putting It All Together
Simply put, Pilates exercise is a highly-effective method of
total-body conditioning. No, it won't put slabs of new muscle on
your body. But it will make the muscle you have look great,
while providing an array of benefits that typical
weight-training can't give you. Throw in some good cardio
training and you've got a complete solution for great fitness
and health!
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