Pilates Exercise – What You Need to Get Great Results From the Start and Take You to the Next Level
Okay, so you’ve heard about it, you’ve seen it, and you even gave it a little test drive once just fooling around watching it on DVD. You know what I’m referring to right? Of course, you’ve got a little “Pilates Passion” going on and now your ready to dive into some Pilates Exercise.
That’s great! No one can blame you. After all, it’s a joint friendly results oriented workout that actually is a lot of fun. But before you get started or even if you’ve been at it awhile and are ready to take your workouts to the next level, here are a few things that will help you to get great results and choose your next direction.
Pilates is typically performed using one of two methods. There is mat based training and there is equipment based training such as Pilates reformer exercises or the use of a magic circle. However it’s important to understand that regardless of which method is used, the main goal in your Pilates training is performing the exercise accurately in order to get the best results.
Essential Pilates exercises require slow sustained moves that utilize your core region such as you abdominals and lower back. Focus is placed on using proper form as well as proper breathing techniques. And while you can find many resources such as books and videos to help you, it is strongly advised to get instruction from a certified instructor in order to perform the moves correctly and get the best results.
Mat based Pilates exercises are very common and the preferred route for beginners to get started per many professionals in the field. According to those individuals, it is the best way to learn proper technique.
Mat work involves a series of moves done while on the floor and its resistance comes from gravity and your own bodyweight. It provides for the conditioning of deeper supporting muscle tissue all the while helping you to improve upon your posture, balance, and coordination.
Pilates equipment based moves are ideally the next step in your Pilates training. Whether it’s a reformer, magic circle, stability chair, etc., you can add resistance to each exercise in order to increase the exercise intensity. In addition, this equipment will open up the door for more exercise options.
Free weights can also be implemented into a workout routine. These weights are like dumbbells and the use of them is another manner in which you can add resistance for the muscles to work against.
Ideally, the expert students will return back to the mat for advanced mat work. This should only occur once the basics of mat and equipment work have been mastered.
Pilates training is some of the most fun and desirable exercise available to people of all ages and fitness levels. However, some notes of caution must be given regardless of whether you are just beginning or escalating your Pilates workouts. They are:
A� Learn proper technique and follow it continuously in order to get the maximum results for your efforts.
A� Proper attire is an important aspect so as not to get any clothes caught in moving parts on a machine but also so that there is freedom of flexibility without unwanted exposure of body parts due to some of the positions you’ll find yourself in with some Pilates moves.
A� Just as with any exercise, be sure and consult your doctor prior to beginning any Pilates exercise program.