It uses a mat or specialized equipment and has more than 600 exercises and variations.
Whether you’re mostly sedentary, pregnant, or experiencing a health condition, Pilates can benefit you.
Research shows that Pilates provides multiple health benefits, from improving quality of life to alleviating back pain.
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What Is Pilates?
Invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s, Pilates focuses on utilizing core muscles to build full-body strength.
Improves Posture
Pilates helps train your body to sit up straight whilestrengthening your core.
People who practice Pilates also experience more pain relief.Other studies show Pilates to be beneficial forosteoarthritis-related pain.
Increases Core Strength
Core strength is a main component of Pilates.
Research shows that this can reduce the risk of experiencingsports-related injuries.
Strengthens Bones
Bone density decreases as we age, which can lead toosteoporosis.
Reduces Menstrual Pain
People who experience painfulmenstrual periodsmay benefit from Pilates.
Some initial studies show that a 12-week Pilates trial helped improvemenstrual painand other symptoms, includingsleep quality.
Increases Energy
Since Pilates focuses on the breath, it may help improve blood and oxygen circulation.
Decreases Stress
Research suggests Pilates maydecrease stress levelsby helping calm the nervous system through mind-body movements and breath awareness.
This mental stress reduction complements Pilates' physical benefits.
Increases Flexibility and Mobility
Pilates combines stretching and strengthening during slow, controlled movements with transitions.
Research shows that this combination can help improve strength along with flexibility and mobility at the same time.
Boosts Immunity
Pilates might help keep the immune system functioning properly.
This happens through improved circulation.
Improves Quality of Life
For people who aremostly sedentary, taking Pilates may help improve their quality of life.
Improves Sleep
Some studies show that Pilates participants under 40 hadbetter sleepquality.
Another revealed that people, specifically in thepostpartum phase, experienced improved sleep after weekly Pilates sessions.
This practice can help minimize back pain and improve postural control.
Benefits of the Pilates Reformer
The Pilates reformer is a versatile machine used in Pilates classes.
Various exercises are performed on the reformer to promote length, strength, flexibility, and balance.
It stretches and stabilizes the pelvic area, with exercises focused on the core and hips.
Some research shows that Pilates may help produce positivelabor and deliveryoutcomes.
This, in turn, supports weight loss.
Also, body weight on the mat and with the reformer can serve as resistance training.
Is Pilates Good for Me If I Have a Health Condition?
Although Pilates can benefit almost everyone, each individuals health is unique.
It’s best to check with a healthcare provider before starting Pilates.
Additional studies are needed to confirm how Pilates can help enhance health outcomes.
Check with a healthcare provider before starting any new workout.
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