Pilates exercise is everywhere these days. This hot trend in fitness is popular for a reason. The strength and natural flexibility that can be achieved through regular practice exceeds almost any other form of exercise.
If you are interested in getting toned, increasing your flexibility, improving your posture and flexibility, then Pilates may be just what you have been looking for you. To get started, you can purchase a Pilates program that you can do at home through DVD or video.
However, because Pilates places a great emphasis on precision and concentration, it is a good idea to take classes with an experienced instructor who can ensure that you are doing the movements correctly and safely.
Make sure the instructor has received professional Pilates certification, with hundreds of hours in training. In most cases, you can choose between mat training and machine work. Pilates studio classes generally focus on mat work, while professional gyms are more likely to be equipped with Pilates equipments.
Whatever focus you choose to pursue, make sure your studio or gym offers lessons at the beginner level.
Also, you should be certain that your class offers supervision from an experienced instructor who can modify any move for a beginner.
Pilates Mat Program
If you are like most beginners, you will probably start off with Pilates mat program. Most mat programs follow a sequence that allows you to begin with easy exercises and gradually move to more advanced movements in a natural progression.
It is important that you start off at a beginner level, no matter your fitness level or previous experience with other strength training programs.
Joseph H. Pilates, the founder of Pilates, designed the sequences so that one must follow the other.
To get the most of your Pilates workout, focus on your breath. Experienced instructors will teach their students to use their breath in conjunction with the body.
Your instructor will teach you how to keep a steady breathing rhythm that complements the movements.
Like yoga, one of the fundamental goals of pilates is to unite the body and mind. Remember that one of the goals in doing pilates is not just to stretch and tone, but relieve stress and anxiety.
Group Experience
Go for a group experience. Learning pilates on your own is certainly an option, but it is much easier to get a hang of this sometimes-challenging practice if you enroll in a class. Check out your local gym for pilates offerings.
To find a Pilates class near you, check out the offerings from your local YMCA, community college, or recreation center. In many areas, there are now professional Pilates studios that offer classes on a pay-per-lesson basis, or you can purchase a whole block of lessons.
Other places to check out include your local recreation center or community college. Better yet, look for a reputable pilates studio in your area. Wherever you choose to go, make sure the pilates instructor has received adequate training and is certified by a well known health, fitness or pilates organization.
Don’t be afraid to ask: your body will thank you for it later! Another place that sometimes offers pilates to the general public are local rehabilitation centers. Joining a class can help you stay committed to your pilates practice. The camaraderie of group practice can deepen your experience and make your pilates practice fun.
Pilates Video
If no classes are available or it’s just not for you, try out a pilates video. Search the Internet for reviews of pilates programs. There are literally dozens of home pilates workouts to choose from, and many of these are very good.
Even if you decide that home practice works best for your schedule or circumstances, consider signing up for one or two pilates classes at your local studio or gym.
This will give you a firm grounding in the practice, and will help show you how the movements should be done to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness. The guidance and help you can receive from a professional instructor can be priceless.
Dress And Accessories
Dress comfortably and use the right accessories. Always dress comfortably for pilates. Wearing too tight clothing or uncomfortable clothing can lead to injury. Dress as you would for yoga: loose-fitting tops and sleek yet not too tight bottoms work best.
Most pilates are practiced without shoes. Purchase a practice mat to keep your body cushioned and secure throughout your pilates workout. Refrain from using more advanced accessories until you have grasped the basics of pilates.
Avoid Injury
Take caution to avoid injury. If you are not sure how to complete a specific movement, refrain from trying to do it without professional supervision. Never attempt movements that are too challenging.
You should not feel pain while practicing pilates. If you have sustained injuries in the past or suffer from back pain, you must take extra precautions to avoid further injury. Consider practicing pilates at a therapy center.
Pilates is currently being offered at many wellness centers and rehabilitating clinics. Take advantage of these resources. Pilates can be greatly beneficial to those who suffer from chronic back or neck pain, and some forms of arthritis.
Discuss your condition with your doctor and check to see if you can incorporate your pilates practice into any other physical therapy that you may be receiving.