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Marsha Sobonya

Want to get in the best Shape? Exercise with Pilates or Pilates Reformer


I am going to start off by stating there are so many ways to get into shape. I think it’s highly important to get a well rounded exercise regimen. It must include the Optimal Fitness levels or 10 Components of Fitness, there are 2 categories, Health Related and Skill Related!


To be well rounded to the best body your own body can achieve one must include Cardio endurance. I am not talking just 1-2 min of cardio here or there but cardio e-n-d-u-r-a-n-c-e. That means moving your large muscle group for an extended period of time 26 minutes or more. But I suggest not more than 40-45 min. After that you might be doing more damage than good. Setting yourself up to fail. Again cardio endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, body composition, then the skill related Agility, speed, balance, coordination, power- reaction time.

 

What Does Pilates Do?

Consider this quote by Joseph Pilates himself: "a uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure." 

Symmetry and alignment are the foundation of physical wellness. The majority of musculoskeletal conditions and injuries are due to poor alignment and asymmetries in the body. Pilates is targeted symmetrical training.


When you focus and train the body on equalizing body sides of the balancing motion and strength you will achieve the movement that you may not have experienced before in a workout or daily activity.

 

To get in shape with Pilates is to take responsibility for your total health. The Pilates system was defined by its founder Joseph Pilates, "complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit."

You can expect tone, strength, flexibility and strong abs lose weight feel all around healthier and better with Pilates but the primary intention of the method is much bigger. You should understand a few concepts and principles of Pilates. 


Getting in shape with Pilates is for anyone, from the couch potato to the athlete. All Pilates exercises can be modified to meet the individual needs and goals. Whether you train with the Pilates equipment or the mat exercises, you can always adjust the motion and intensity to your own personal level. 

Whatever Pilates style you prefer, working with an individual teacher is recommended to help you design the best program for your intended results. 

 

In order for the Pilates method to work the exercises should be done with certain principles in mind.

The Pilates principles are centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow. These principles integrated to work together will achieve the signature results of Pilates. These principles are what separates Pilates from many other workouts.

Complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit does not come solely by squats and push-ups.

 

Pilates exercise starts with the core of your body -- with full breaths refreshing your cells; with your heart and circulatory system pumping fresh blood into your tissues; and with training the deep muscles of your abdomen, back and pelvis which is also known as your POWERHOUSE which support your spine, and provide stability in your pelvis and shoulders as you move.

When we strengthen and stabilize the core, we can safely move out from the center to increase the flexibility of our spine, stretch our muscles, and improve the range of motion in your torso.

 

Pilates as a Progressive System

Pilates is a progressive system. If you are consistent with your Pilates training you will be adding new moves and increasing your stamina and intensity with each workout. As you progress, will find that the pace of a workout picks up as do the strength and stability challenges. Proper progression is necessary. It’s better to do 1-2 correct than 10-12 sloppy form with this method.

 

How Often Should I Do Pilates?

To get in shape with Pilates, Joseph Pilates recommended a minimum of 3 times per week. While the mat work can be done every day, equipment work should be spaced out every other day. You may begin with short mat workouts as little as 10 minutes. Your goal is to work your way up to between 45 minutes and one hour.


Whenever possible, the best Pilates practice happens at the hands of an instructor who can not only guide you through proper form but also move you forward towards your ultimate goals. Book A Session Now!

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