Pilates Introduction

Pilates is increasingly popular among Singaporeans as a fitness and wellness solution. Many hollywood celebrities have been reported as benefiting from the Pilates experience. But what exactly is Pilates?

Pilates is a system of over 500 controlled movements that engage your mind and body. It is somewhat similar to yoga. Both emphasizes breathing, concentration, control and precision. However, the breathing techniques are different, and you are asked to pull your stomach in rather than allowing it to fill with breath. Pilates is also movement, rather than the holding of postures that is yoga.

Pilates is also quite similar to Aerobics. It helps detoxify the body by improving circulation of the blood and awakening all the cells in the body. Joseph Pilates, the creator of Pilates Exercises, believed that for the blood to function properly, it has to be charged with oxygen and gases to be purged through proper breathing. Hence, full inhalation and exhalation are practiced during every Pilates exercise to make you feel fresher besides being shapelier.

Pilates works several muscle groups simultaneously through smooth, continuous motion, with a particular concentration on strengthening and stabilizing the core (the abdomen, back and pelvic girdle region, sometimes referred to as the "powerhouse"). It helps with spine support (posture), flexibility, balance, muscle tone and creates a fusion of mind and body.

The focus is on precise movements rather than sloppy compound movements, which makes one feel invigorated rather than exhausted after a session. Pilates takes a balanced approach so that no muscle group is overworked or neglected. Pilates exercises can be performed on a mat or on specialized equipment such as a Pilates Reformer, Pilates Cadillac and Ladder Barrel. For home training, the Pilates Classes will be mainly matworks with the use of some simple equipments such as the stretch bands.

Pilates can be beneficial for virtually all ages, fitness levels and body conditions. The method is like a bridge between physical fitness and physical therapy, and can be adapted, modified and customized for individual needs. It is great for musculoskeletal injury rehabilitation, and is often recommended by doctors, physical therapists and chiropractors. Pilates can be used as a complete fitness program as well as a supplement to other methods of fitness, or as a tool to educate the body to have better posture, or to move in a more effective way.

In a few words, Pilates keeps you sharp and in shape.

> Find out more on Pilates' Benefits.

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