Pilates is a fitness system developed by Joseph Pilates in early 1900s. Pilates was a gymnast who lived in Germany but was of Greek descent. During World War I, he was interned in England with other German nationals and there he began to develop his system. The Pilates system focuses on resistance and control and was influenced by yoga. The Pilates system creates a balance between mind and body, so that practitioners are aware of how their body feels and how to control it.
Many people enjoy Pilates because it makes the body strong yet lean and improves overall general health.
Control
An important principle in Pilates is that of control. In fact, Joseph Pilates named his system Contrology because of control was so important to it. Movements should be precise and the mind should remain in charge of muscle movements. One Pilates exercise, known as "Control Balance," involves raising both legs into the air and alternating pull one leg back, without flailing about or losing balance. Maintaining control when practicing Pilates is imperative to get the full benefits of the system.
Breathing
Controlled breathing is also very important in Pilates. Breathing properly cleanses the body by improving blood flow. Pilates breathing is performed by inhaling through the nose, deep in the abdomen and exhaling forcefully through the mouth, pushing the abdomen flat as you breathe out.
Efficient Movements
Pilates exercises are designed to flow from one to the next quickly once they are learned precisely. These efficient movements help to prevent injury to the body, improve posture, and work multiple muscle groups.
Mat and Apparatus Exercises
Return to Life Through Contrology features 34 exercises designed to be performed on a mat. Later, Joseph Pilates created apparatus, based on the homemade exercise equipment he made for bed ridden patients while interned in the camp. Pilates equipment makes use of progressive resistance by featuring springs that increase in resistance as they are stretched. The most well known piece of Pilates equipment is the Reformer.
 | Similar to yoga, Pilates builds strength and improves flexibility through a series of specific, concentrated movements targeted on the core muscles in the abdomen and back combined with focused, mindful breathing techniques. |
 | With basic pilates exercise equipment, you can start your new exercise regime in no time. |
 | Like all Pilates workouts, those on the mat focus on your powerhouse, or your core of abdominal muscles around your torso. |
If you're looking to tone your legs, try Pilates thigh-lengthening exercises to make them appear longer and thinner. |
