More on the Pilates Fitness Program
Pilates is a type of exercise program that is aimed at stretching, balancing and strengthening the body. This program has been attracting much interest and popularity in several parts of the world including Canada, Europe and the Pan-Asia. Pilates essentially consists of a series of exercises that are systematically performed in conjunction with focused breathing exercises. The program has become a popular choice in rehabilitation and in athletic training. Even dancers have adopted Pilates as an exercise program of choice.
Benefits
Pilates offers a lot of benefits on one's health. For starters, the program works to enhance the capacity of the muscles and improve the circulation of the blood through the deep and focused breathing exercises. It also helps improve back and abdominal muscle strength and flexibility. The effectiveness of Pilates is focused on mental and muscular coordination so the program works to improve one's posture, balance and core strength.
A positive awareness for the body is normally achieved after going through the Pilates program. There is also a considerable enhancement of bone density and the health of the joints. Pilates brings together various meditation programs including Zen, Yoga and ancient Greek and Roman exercise forms. The physical body learns balance through this program in as much as the mental and emotional aspect of the body is improved.
The development of the study
Pilates is a brainchild of an English performer and boxer named Joseph Pilates. Pilates developed the idea of mat exercises or floor routines that used the body like weights. He referred to the concept as Contrology. He also designed rehabilitation equipment that were used at the camps back during the World War I. He used the concept of resistance through springs to assist patients who are already bedridden.
Training for pilates
The first pilates instructors got their training by assisting Joseph Pilates for about two or three years. These days, however, it's easier to obtain certifications as a pilates instructor. Classes for this exercise program usually cost $10-20 for the mat forms. The hour-long sessions can cost from $50-100. One-on-one sessions are also available at roughly the same rates.
International Pilates Alliance
Trainers formed the Pilates Method Alliance in 2000 as an effort to support and maintain the commitment towards educating pilates trainers. The international organization requires those who want to be instructors to undergo formal training and accomplish an official exam for pilates. It is a national certificate that is required of today's instructors in order for them to be able to train other people.
So for people who are suffering from muscle injuries and require rehabilitation, pilates is an ideal exercise program that should be adopted. It is also a good choice for professional dancers, athletes and boxers. It goes without saying that individuals have to make sure that they are getting their training from a certified instructor.