Are you getting tired of the same old workout routine? Is heading to the gym no longer as exciting as it once was? If you’re searching for a new way to get physically active, try Pilates!
Pilates is a versatile form of exercise that can be done in the gym, with a class, or even virtually at home. If you’re curious about what Pilates can do for you, contact Fitness Matters today. Our Pilates instructors can teach you more about our integrated Pilates program and how it can help you improve your health and fitness!
What exactly is Pilates?
Pilates is a type of low-impact exercise that aims to strengthen muscles while also improving posture and flexibility. A typical Pilates workout may last from 45 minutes to an hour.
While many people hold the misconception that Pilates is a new age exercise, it has been around since the early 20th century! Pilates originated as a form of rehabilitation during World War I as a way to help rehabilitate wounded soldiers. Since then, Pilates has been a reliable method of strength and flexibility training.
Some of the most important aspects of Pilates are slow, precise movements and breath control to promote the contraction of the core muscles. Pilates routines can be performed with special equipment, such as a bed-like structure known as a reformer, or on a mat or blanket, depending on the exercises.
When you engage in Pilates exercises, your core and trunk muscles will be targeted. Your trunk muscles include your abdominals, back, hips, and inner and outer thighs. So don’t mistake Pilates for anything other than a full-body workout!
What are the health benefits of Pilates?
Pilates has numerous health benefits. It is known to improve motor control, promote postural alignment, strengthen joints and muscles, and can even decrease stress levels!
Pilates, by focusing on the core, can enhance your center of balance and promote an even musculature throughout the body.
This treatment is effective for a wide range of neurological and orthopedic issues, which is why we offer Pilates at 3 of our locations around Columbus. Pilates is commonly used to treat the following conditions:
- Arthritis.
- Balance issues.
- Multiple sclerosis.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Brain injuries.
- Joint injuries
- Stroke.
Pilates can be used for much more than just injury recovery. It is an excellent stress-reduction technique as well as a means of strengthening the joints and muscles. It aids in the improvement of muscle performance, motor control, and the reinforcement of postural alignment.
The effects of Pilates can have a big impact on the body. For example, Pilates promotes postural alignment. Research shows that a healthy posture helps lessen back pain and pressure throughout the entire body.
One of the greatest perks of Pilates, however, is the sense of well-being that comes from simply feeling better. The relaxed and centered feeling you get after a session of Pilates is almost unmatched. When you leave the gym or Pilates studio with a boosted mood, your mental well-being and emotional health also benefits. Who knew one exercise could have so many perks!
Pilates and your immune health
Did you know that Pilates can boost your immune system? It’s true!
Our lymphatic and respiratory systems are critical parts of our body’s waste disposal system. Because lymph does not have a heart to constantly move it around like blood, it must be moved through the body with movement.
That’s where Pilates comes in. Not only does Pilates boost lymphatic movement throughout the body, it also increases circulation of blood to the heart and brain by engaging multiple muscle groups from head-to-toe.
Pilates also focuses on stress relief and calming exercises via breathing techniques and specific movements. This causes the sympathetic nervous system to slow down, reducing stress and increasing immunity. Fitting exercise into your daily routine also promotes better sleep, which is essential for immune system health.
Ready to start improving your health?
Are you looking to improve your balance, blood flow, flexibility, circulation, or alleviate pain? If so, Pilates is an excellent place to start.
At Fitness Matters, we can combine the powerful pain-relieving properties of physical therapy with Pilates in an integrated exercise program designed just for you.
Contact our us today – to gain access to a customized exercise program with countless benefits. We’re looking forward to helping you get healthier!
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