By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Makinde]Stephen Makinde
Benefits of Pilates
Have you been going to other exercise classes and want to try something different? Do you suffer from a bad back and need to find an answer? Read this article to find out about the 10 benefits of Pilates.
Benefits of Pilates 1: Pilates Creates a Strong Core
By careful training and precise control over the smaller muscles in the lower abdominal region and lower back region Pilates is able to improve your core stability. This can result in better control of the small spinal joints during movement of the spine and better control of the pelvis and hip regions. This can have many beneficial effects including improving pelvic stability, lower back pain reduction, better control of the bladder and stronger pelvic floor muscles.
Benefits of Pilates 2: Pilates improves relaxation
By slowing down movement to help improve core stability Pilates also has the effect of inducing a deeply relaxed state that can add to the euphoria attached to doing a well taught Pilates class. Classes are often small and no more than 5/6 people with a slow tempo and a relaxed atmosphere adding to the relaxation process during the class.
Benefits of Pilates 3: Improve your Posture with Pilates
It has been demonstrated and recommended for a long time by health care practitioners that Pilates benefits your overall feeling of well-being but also can help in most cases to improve your posture. Pilates is often recommended by our experts to help improve overall posture and reduce muscle imbalance. The type of Pilates that we recommend needs to be precise and guided by fully qualified practitioners who have valuable years of experience and understand or work very closely with therapists to understand the workings of the human body.
Benefits of Pilates 4: Improve your Athletic Performance with Pilates
At Perfect Balance Clinic our Physiotherapists and Rehab expert's use some Pilates based exercises to allow them to optimise athletic performance and help speed up post event recovery allowing for a speedy return to sport and athletic performance. We work with Gold Medal winning athletes as an intrinsic part of their athletic programme to help reduce injury occurrence, under the guidance of their coaches and therapists.
Benefits of Pilates 5; Improve your co-ordination in a Pilates class
When you are taught Pilates in a controlled environment you soon develop a heightened awareness of your body. Whether that be your neck, shoulders or legs, they are all used to improve your body awareness thus heightening the feedback on a neurological level to your brain and allowing for development of a better co-ordinated individual. Pilates movements should be slow and almost dance like allowing for a deeper level of interpretation by your brain and nervous system. The movements are often repeated allowing for a rehearsal of the positions, which results in better integration into normal daily movements.
Benefits of Pilates 6: Better alignment with Pilates
We often see people who are referred to Pilates after having spinal surgery. You have to wonder if some surgery could be avoided by proper spinal alignment and training of the spinal stabilising muscles. We often never get to find out. We do therefore recommend that people try at least a short course of Pilates based exercise to allow them to regain some control over their spinal musculature and develop better alignment of their spines. Classic examples of people who could do with Pilates are those with one shoulder higher than the other, or they've been told they have one leg longer than the other.
Benefits of Pilates 7: Vastly Improved Concentration with Pilates
Because Pilates is very slow, precise and controlled it is important that you concentrate lots during the sessions. This we are told improves peoples levels of concentration as they almost reach a meditative state allowing them to not only excel in Pilates but also excel in their activities of daily living.
Benefits of Pilates 8: Better Stamina Levels with Pilates
Due to the long duration of the classes and the intensity that people often work at during them, it is inevitable that stamina improves as a result of this type of training. By stressing the different energy systems in the body unlike other forms of exercise Pilates is responsible for better utilisation of oxygen in your tissues and results in a more optimal performance based on better stamina levels. Most people find their first classes difficult and ache for a few days afterwards. This is normally a 'good' ache or so we have been told, which results from the start of the adaptation process to this form of exercise.
Benefits of Pilates 9: Improved breathing with Pilates
Due largely to the type of breathing that Pilates induces, it has been reported that people gain better control of their breathing after doing Pilates sessions on a regular basis. The movements in Pilates are sequenced to allow for better control of breathing and integration with bodily movements allowing for better control and an improved awareness of their breathing state.
Benefits of Pilates 10; Pilates never stops developing
Since its early conception by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century Pilates has evolved to encompass other forms of equipment and deliver a much more biomechanical and correct form of exercise. Pilates largely is focused on the above main principles and this has been taken on board with the newer more advanced varieties of Pilates. In its purest form Pilates was used for strengthening the mind and body, often this can be lost in classes as they are overcrowded and instructors are poorly qualified resulting in Pilates for the masses. Better results from Pilates can be gained from the smaller class sizes which encourage a more individualised approach and more intense work out. People do Pilates to get results.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Pilates---The-Benefits&id=6462459] Pilates - The Benefits
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Monday, March 12, 2012
Pilates for Back Pain
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Stephen_Makinde]Stephen Makinde
Pilates has long been used for the benefit of people suffering from different forms of pain. It is impossible to know how back pain will respond to Pilates unless it is diagnosed correctly in the first instance.
Diagnosis before Pilates
To get the best results it is always essential that there is an accurate understanding of the condition you are working with and as a result an accurate diagnosis of the pain must be made. To have back pain diagnosed accurately often it is worth while excluding the other causes of back pain which can result in a similar presentation of back pain. Otherwise you could waste a lot of money on the wrong form of exercise for your back. Pilates does not help all types of back pain, no matter what you are told. To get your back pain assessed accurately you must first see a therapist who is able to properly diagnose the problem and has received adequate training in the correct testing procedures for back pain and its various forms. Seeing a lesser qualified therapist could result in wasting lots of money on pilates sessions that will not help you back at all. Just because back pain does not get better with the conventional treatment it does not mean it would respond to Pilates. Taking a thorough medical history and screening testing allows the GP, Osteopath or Physiotherapist to diagnose the condition in relation to the results of these tests.
Pilates for Back Pain
Pilates has been shown clinically to significantly reduce the effects of musculo-skeletal back pain resulting in better mechanical functioning. However, if the Pilates is not prescribed in the right dose, i.e. exercises, it will result in detrimental effects to the spine and pelvis. Smaller group sessions of Pilates and intimate rehab sessions lead to much better results as the one to one attention clients receive results in a better understanding of the intricate nature of this form of rehabilitation. Back pain must be taken seriously and messing about with it is not acceptable and can delay the healing process. Getting prompt diagnosis, accurate exercise prescription and a long term management programme are vitally important for the health of your back.
Why does Pilates Benefit people with pain?
The reason why Pilates benefits back pain is partly due to the concept of core stability. Core stability is described in many ways but the most accurate description of core stability comes from the book concepts of fitness and wellness- a comprehensive lifestyle approach,
"Core Stability, Strength of muscles which demonstrate optimal firing patterns and tension-generating capabilities to "brace" the trunk in anticipation of and during the movement of the head, arms or legs"
"Core strength, Strength of muscles which demonstrate optimal firing patterns and tension-generating capabilities to create movement of the trunk"
This all sounds rather complex I know, but its simple really. The core is like a sling of muscles which wraps around your mid section, the fibres lying in different directions allowing a widespread but even increase in the intra abdominal pressure. This results in a pressure like effect which helps support the spinal load, much like the pressure in a bicycle pump going outwards when the piston is depressed and the air inside is squashed inwards by the pump walls and downwards by the pump itself. Luckily you have your pelvic floor to stop pressure escaping from the base region, unlike the bicycle pump.
Core Strength
Core strength is thus important for lower back pain as it reduces the impact of increased pressure or load through the spine and discs, thus reducing the mechanical burden of the load by spreading the forces around and not through the other weight bearing structures in the back. However, it is never as simple as this. There are many theories to date which try to explain the effect of spinal stabilisation through the effect of core stability strength. As you can imagine it is only the types of back pain, which are the result of a failure of this mechanism, which will respond to, Pilates type exercises. So proper screening is vital.
Core strength vs biomechanical accuracy of movement
As important as it is core strength improvements are not the only part of this equation. Bad backs often result from improper movement mechanics. By having a thorough understanding of the human anatomy, physiological make up and biomechanical functioning we are able to screen which movements are faulty and address these as causative agents in the genesis of back pain. Without doing this other methods of stabilisation such as Pilates alone cannot address the underlying route causes of the issues faced by those suffering with pain. Functional rehabilitation allows quicker integration back into day-to-day life, this may incorporate movements which you carry out on a daily basis.
Summary
It is so important to understand the nature of you pain before undertaking exercise. It is possible to waste large amounts of money on a regular basis doing exercise that actually may be detrimental to your improvement. Make sure you look for serious qualifications and experience n those teaching you, as well as an understanding of your condition.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Pilates-for-Back-Pain&id=6462465] Pilates for Back Pain
Pilates has long been used for the benefit of people suffering from different forms of pain. It is impossible to know how back pain will respond to Pilates unless it is diagnosed correctly in the first instance.
Diagnosis before Pilates
To get the best results it is always essential that there is an accurate understanding of the condition you are working with and as a result an accurate diagnosis of the pain must be made. To have back pain diagnosed accurately often it is worth while excluding the other causes of back pain which can result in a similar presentation of back pain. Otherwise you could waste a lot of money on the wrong form of exercise for your back. Pilates does not help all types of back pain, no matter what you are told. To get your back pain assessed accurately you must first see a therapist who is able to properly diagnose the problem and has received adequate training in the correct testing procedures for back pain and its various forms. Seeing a lesser qualified therapist could result in wasting lots of money on pilates sessions that will not help you back at all. Just because back pain does not get better with the conventional treatment it does not mean it would respond to Pilates. Taking a thorough medical history and screening testing allows the GP, Osteopath or Physiotherapist to diagnose the condition in relation to the results of these tests.
Pilates for Back Pain
Pilates has been shown clinically to significantly reduce the effects of musculo-skeletal back pain resulting in better mechanical functioning. However, if the Pilates is not prescribed in the right dose, i.e. exercises, it will result in detrimental effects to the spine and pelvis. Smaller group sessions of Pilates and intimate rehab sessions lead to much better results as the one to one attention clients receive results in a better understanding of the intricate nature of this form of rehabilitation. Back pain must be taken seriously and messing about with it is not acceptable and can delay the healing process. Getting prompt diagnosis, accurate exercise prescription and a long term management programme are vitally important for the health of your back.
Why does Pilates Benefit people with pain?
The reason why Pilates benefits back pain is partly due to the concept of core stability. Core stability is described in many ways but the most accurate description of core stability comes from the book concepts of fitness and wellness- a comprehensive lifestyle approach,
"Core Stability, Strength of muscles which demonstrate optimal firing patterns and tension-generating capabilities to "brace" the trunk in anticipation of and during the movement of the head, arms or legs"
"Core strength, Strength of muscles which demonstrate optimal firing patterns and tension-generating capabilities to create movement of the trunk"
This all sounds rather complex I know, but its simple really. The core is like a sling of muscles which wraps around your mid section, the fibres lying in different directions allowing a widespread but even increase in the intra abdominal pressure. This results in a pressure like effect which helps support the spinal load, much like the pressure in a bicycle pump going outwards when the piston is depressed and the air inside is squashed inwards by the pump walls and downwards by the pump itself. Luckily you have your pelvic floor to stop pressure escaping from the base region, unlike the bicycle pump.
Core Strength
Core strength is thus important for lower back pain as it reduces the impact of increased pressure or load through the spine and discs, thus reducing the mechanical burden of the load by spreading the forces around and not through the other weight bearing structures in the back. However, it is never as simple as this. There are many theories to date which try to explain the effect of spinal stabilisation through the effect of core stability strength. As you can imagine it is only the types of back pain, which are the result of a failure of this mechanism, which will respond to, Pilates type exercises. So proper screening is vital.
Core strength vs biomechanical accuracy of movement
As important as it is core strength improvements are not the only part of this equation. Bad backs often result from improper movement mechanics. By having a thorough understanding of the human anatomy, physiological make up and biomechanical functioning we are able to screen which movements are faulty and address these as causative agents in the genesis of back pain. Without doing this other methods of stabilisation such as Pilates alone cannot address the underlying route causes of the issues faced by those suffering with pain. Functional rehabilitation allows quicker integration back into day-to-day life, this may incorporate movements which you carry out on a daily basis.
Summary
It is so important to understand the nature of you pain before undertaking exercise. It is possible to waste large amounts of money on a regular basis doing exercise that actually may be detrimental to your improvement. Make sure you look for serious qualifications and experience n those teaching you, as well as an understanding of your condition.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Pilates-for-Back-Pain&id=6462465] Pilates for Back Pain
Saturday, March 10, 2012
The Benefits of a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Pilates Program
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joanna_Ng]Joanna Ng
If you have been doing Pilates for some time, whether in many one on one session or in a group setting, and you understand your program and the exercises, you are probably ready to embark on a "Do-It-Yourself" (D.I.Y) Pilates program.
Before you jump into a DIY Pilates Program, be sure to consult your Pilates instructor to make sure you are ready to begin one. This is to make sure that your workout is safe and can give you results!
Some studios offers personalized DIY Pilates programming services. Your training program will be drawn up accordingly to your goals. You will be fully instructed properly on how to execute the routines correctly and you can ask questions to clarify any doubts before you begin.
Here are some benefits from doing Pilates on your own:
- Improved posture
- Strengthened core
- Proper breathing technique
- Toned muscles
- Develop balance and stability
- Gain muscular endurance
- Improved flexibility
- Increased metabolism
- Less risk of injury
- Permanent pain relief
When you start your DIY Pilates program both on mat or machine, it's important to start slowly, and build it up as you get more comfortable with the exercises. With time, you can progress to more advanced moves, and add other soft apparatus like dynaband, mini ball, pole and more.
Pilates done on mat is easier because it is more portable and you can do the exercises at home or anywhere. There are many DVDs that you can purchase on the market, but you need to be sure the DVD you picked is appropriate for your level of fitness and you know how to execute the routine properly.
Even though the mat is more portable and there are benefits to be achieved from performing mat routines, mat exercises do not give you the resistance that the Pilates reformer does. The Reformer works on springs from which the resistance can be adapted to suit your level of training. Resistance training is important because it adds strength and endurance to your muscles. This means you can do the same activity like walking longer distance easily without feeling tired or getting out of breath. You improve your stamina and strength.
When your muscles are toned, they burn more calories which in turn increase your metabolism, thus more fat loss. The Pilates machines transform your body much faster than simply using the mat. This however, doesn't mean you will look like a bodybuilder; but you will not have any loose skin that hangs or jiggles when you move. The reformer also gives you a broader range of motion when doing your exercises, so you can work your core more effectively and more efficiently.
The most important long term benefit of embarking on a rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates program is about taking ownership of your body. You learn all about the how, why, what of the program that you are doing. You understand why certain exercises suit you might not suit your friend. It is important to know which area of the body you are working and why you need to focus on as you do each move.
As you gain more experience from doing more DIY sessions, it becomes easier to fit your training as you don't have to follow a fixed schedule. You manage and plan your own time for training. It is flexible and easy to stay committed and consistent. You can continue on your own, which many people find more feasible. You can combine your workouts, and use both a reformer at a studio and the mat at home. This will give you maximum benefit and flexibility, to suit your schedule even better. You owe it to yourself to take some time out of your day, to stay healthy and fit. A good workout helps reduce stress levels, blood pressure and many other stress-related issues. Most important, it improves your immunity and helps you regain vitality and is anti-ageing.
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg]Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Benefits-of-a-Do-It-Yourself-(DIY)-Pilates-Program&id=6476843] The Benefits of a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Pilates Program
If you have been doing Pilates for some time, whether in many one on one session or in a group setting, and you understand your program and the exercises, you are probably ready to embark on a "Do-It-Yourself" (D.I.Y) Pilates program.
Before you jump into a DIY Pilates Program, be sure to consult your Pilates instructor to make sure you are ready to begin one. This is to make sure that your workout is safe and can give you results!
Some studios offers personalized DIY Pilates programming services. Your training program will be drawn up accordingly to your goals. You will be fully instructed properly on how to execute the routines correctly and you can ask questions to clarify any doubts before you begin.
Here are some benefits from doing Pilates on your own:
- Improved posture
- Strengthened core
- Proper breathing technique
- Toned muscles
- Develop balance and stability
- Gain muscular endurance
- Improved flexibility
- Increased metabolism
- Less risk of injury
- Permanent pain relief
When you start your DIY Pilates program both on mat or machine, it's important to start slowly, and build it up as you get more comfortable with the exercises. With time, you can progress to more advanced moves, and add other soft apparatus like dynaband, mini ball, pole and more.
Pilates done on mat is easier because it is more portable and you can do the exercises at home or anywhere. There are many DVDs that you can purchase on the market, but you need to be sure the DVD you picked is appropriate for your level of fitness and you know how to execute the routine properly.
Even though the mat is more portable and there are benefits to be achieved from performing mat routines, mat exercises do not give you the resistance that the Pilates reformer does. The Reformer works on springs from which the resistance can be adapted to suit your level of training. Resistance training is important because it adds strength and endurance to your muscles. This means you can do the same activity like walking longer distance easily without feeling tired or getting out of breath. You improve your stamina and strength.
When your muscles are toned, they burn more calories which in turn increase your metabolism, thus more fat loss. The Pilates machines transform your body much faster than simply using the mat. This however, doesn't mean you will look like a bodybuilder; but you will not have any loose skin that hangs or jiggles when you move. The reformer also gives you a broader range of motion when doing your exercises, so you can work your core more effectively and more efficiently.
The most important long term benefit of embarking on a rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates program is about taking ownership of your body. You learn all about the how, why, what of the program that you are doing. You understand why certain exercises suit you might not suit your friend. It is important to know which area of the body you are working and why you need to focus on as you do each move.
As you gain more experience from doing more DIY sessions, it becomes easier to fit your training as you don't have to follow a fixed schedule. You manage and plan your own time for training. It is flexible and easy to stay committed and consistent. You can continue on your own, which many people find more feasible. You can combine your workouts, and use both a reformer at a studio and the mat at home. This will give you maximum benefit and flexibility, to suit your schedule even better. You owe it to yourself to take some time out of your day, to stay healthy and fit. A good workout helps reduce stress levels, blood pressure and many other stress-related issues. Most important, it improves your immunity and helps you regain vitality and is anti-ageing.
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg]Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Benefits-of-a-Do-It-Yourself-(DIY)-Pilates-Program&id=6476843] The Benefits of a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Pilates Program
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Hot Tips to Practise Pilates on Your Own - The DIY Way
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joanna_Ng]Joanna Ng
Where do I go from here? This is the most common question asked by anyone who had been doing Pilates for a while. You might have taken 1 on 1 session for some reasons like chronic pain or for just for general health and fitness. Or you might have been taking group lessons and had a change in work schedule, which makes it hard for you to join your regular group classes.
Although it might seem rather intimidating to embark on a D.I.Y Pilates program on our own, it is actually quite a fulfilling journey. And once you get into the hang of it, it is both easy and simple. You are taking over the responsibility of looking after your own health and fitness. As long as you are committed and serious about your program, you can see significant results from this D.I.Y program.
Here are 3 tips to get you started:
1.Get a Pilates Professional
But you are not alone on your D.I.Y journey. You can seek the help of a qualified Pilates instructor to assist you on your program plan. There are a number of Pilates studios that offer this service for a small fee. Always make sure you are familiar with the machine set up safety rules and apply proper form and technique before starting your program. If in doubt, seek the help of a Pilates professional. Ask questions to make certain you understand your program and the routines. You can also compliment your program with mat exercises at home. There are some very good DVDs you can purchase that will help you at home. Just check that it is appropriate for your level.
2.Compliment With Machine
Most people prefer Pilates mat exercises over the reformer because it offers more versatility and flexibility. And since most people don't have the equipment at home because it takes up too much room and is expensive to purchase, the ultimate choice is still the mat. With a mat, you can pull it out and perform the exercises whenever it is convenient for you, without having to step out of the house. However, there are certain limitations to doing mat exercise. No matter how you take mat exercises, you are merely working with the weight of your body. You need resistance to challenge muscular strength and endurance. This resistance must be more than your body weight. And we definitely do not intend to increase our body weight just for the sake of taking up this challenge. Hence, mat exercise does not offer significant improvement in these areas.
3.Claim Ownership of Your Health
When you start on a DIY Pilates program, you start learning seriously how to do them on your own. You increase your knowledge and understanding of both your body and the exercises that are needed to challenge it. As you improve your skills and your ability to perform the routines with ease and confidence, you are reaping the results of your program. You and your body become more connected and more intelligent.
There is a strong awareness. What you learnt through this DIY journey stays on. Your DIY program is not restricted to just this program. It can be modified, add on and changes made to suit your increase strength and stamina to challenge up at a different level.
How many times have you not stepped into class, thinking of work, chores to be done, kids at home and more? It is hard to switch off but doing DIY Pilates on your own, changes that. You are forced to take charge of your program and your health.
There are more great reasons on what rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates program can give you if you take up the challenge. But that is for you to go find out. Once you embark on this journey, you will wonder why you had not thought of doing it sooner. Because it works!
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg]Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Hot-Tips-to-Practise-Pilates-on-Your-Own---The-DIY-Way&id=6492026] Hot Tips to Practise Pilates on Your Own - The DIY Way
Where do I go from here? This is the most common question asked by anyone who had been doing Pilates for a while. You might have taken 1 on 1 session for some reasons like chronic pain or for just for general health and fitness. Or you might have been taking group lessons and had a change in work schedule, which makes it hard for you to join your regular group classes.
Although it might seem rather intimidating to embark on a D.I.Y Pilates program on our own, it is actually quite a fulfilling journey. And once you get into the hang of it, it is both easy and simple. You are taking over the responsibility of looking after your own health and fitness. As long as you are committed and serious about your program, you can see significant results from this D.I.Y program.
Here are 3 tips to get you started:
1.Get a Pilates Professional
But you are not alone on your D.I.Y journey. You can seek the help of a qualified Pilates instructor to assist you on your program plan. There are a number of Pilates studios that offer this service for a small fee. Always make sure you are familiar with the machine set up safety rules and apply proper form and technique before starting your program. If in doubt, seek the help of a Pilates professional. Ask questions to make certain you understand your program and the routines. You can also compliment your program with mat exercises at home. There are some very good DVDs you can purchase that will help you at home. Just check that it is appropriate for your level.
2.Compliment With Machine
Most people prefer Pilates mat exercises over the reformer because it offers more versatility and flexibility. And since most people don't have the equipment at home because it takes up too much room and is expensive to purchase, the ultimate choice is still the mat. With a mat, you can pull it out and perform the exercises whenever it is convenient for you, without having to step out of the house. However, there are certain limitations to doing mat exercise. No matter how you take mat exercises, you are merely working with the weight of your body. You need resistance to challenge muscular strength and endurance. This resistance must be more than your body weight. And we definitely do not intend to increase our body weight just for the sake of taking up this challenge. Hence, mat exercise does not offer significant improvement in these areas.
3.Claim Ownership of Your Health
When you start on a DIY Pilates program, you start learning seriously how to do them on your own. You increase your knowledge and understanding of both your body and the exercises that are needed to challenge it. As you improve your skills and your ability to perform the routines with ease and confidence, you are reaping the results of your program. You and your body become more connected and more intelligent.
There is a strong awareness. What you learnt through this DIY journey stays on. Your DIY program is not restricted to just this program. It can be modified, add on and changes made to suit your increase strength and stamina to challenge up at a different level.
How many times have you not stepped into class, thinking of work, chores to be done, kids at home and more? It is hard to switch off but doing DIY Pilates on your own, changes that. You are forced to take charge of your program and your health.
There are more great reasons on what rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates program can give you if you take up the challenge. But that is for you to go find out. Once you embark on this journey, you will wonder why you had not thought of doing it sooner. Because it works!
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg]Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Hot-Tips-to-Practise-Pilates-on-Your-Own---The-DIY-Way&id=6492026] Hot Tips to Practise Pilates on Your Own - The DIY Way
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
The Basic Fundamentals of DIY Pilates on Pilates Reformer
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Joanna_Ng]Joanna Ng
If you have been practising Pilates for a while and are familiar with the basic fundamentals of Pilates, it might be time you consider getting started on a "Do It Yourself"- D.I.Y. program. This program should be designed by your Pilates instructor based on your needs and goals. You should be taught on how to execute the moves properly and eventually performed them with confidence.
Before you start your program, there are some things to keep in mind in order perform all of the DIY Pilates exercises safely, especially if you are going to use a Pilates machine, like the Pilates reformer. The Pilates reformer can be a little intimidating at first, and you may not know where to start. Understanding how to use the reformer with the guidance of a Pilates instructor is a good start.
Here are some notes on the basic anatomy of the Pilates reformer:
-Carriage: This is the part that you lie down on. The carriage slides up and down when the springs are activated according to the specific exercises you are doing.
-Head rest: Many exercises are done lying down, and this is where you rest your head. The head rest can be adjusted up or down. Set it to flat for certain exercises that need the neck to be lengthen, as in the "Short Spine". And adjusted up so that your head is up slightly which is more comfortable.
-Shoulder Rests: These keeps you in place and stabilized as the carriage slides up and down. They also act as a good indicator of your body alignment on the machine.
-Straps: These are connected to the raisers at the top end of the machine and have handles or loops attached, making it easy to either grab or placed your feet in. Long straps are for the legs and short straps for the hands.
-Foot Bar: This is where you placed your feet according to the exercises to be preformed.
-Spring Resistance: The springs come in different colors which indicate the different tension of the resistance, particular to each individual brand. The springs are loaded both accordingly to the exercises to be performed and your fitness level.
-Long & Short Box: This is actually just one box structure. The terms of long and short refers to how the box is to be placed with reference to the exercise and its position on the carriage. There are both basic and advance moves that can be done on the box. Take special note to get on and off the box with caution.
The Pilates reformer works on the basic principle of "Push and Pull". You will be pulling or pushing yourself on the carriage using the tension of the spring and the weight of your body.
When you have completed your rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates exercises, it is important to clean the machine for hygiene purposes and as an act of courtesy. You don't need to use harsh chemicals. Add some droplets of essential oils like lavender, lemon grass to a portion of water in a spray bottle. Spray the Pilates machine, paying particular attention to the handles, carriage, foot bar, and any part that appeared stained or areas you've touched with your hands.
There are of course, other machines that you may want to use as well. The Wunda chair and the Cadillac also provide amazing benefits but it is wise to consider the guidance of a good Pilates instructor to avoid being injured.
The Pilates reformer, however, is the most popular, because of the variety of exercises you can perform easily on it. It is a straight forward and simple to use!
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Basic-Fundamentals-of-DIY-Pilates-on-Pilates-Reformer&id=6491957] The Basic Fundamentals of DIY Pilates on Pilates Reformer
If you have been practising Pilates for a while and are familiar with the basic fundamentals of Pilates, it might be time you consider getting started on a "Do It Yourself"- D.I.Y. program. This program should be designed by your Pilates instructor based on your needs and goals. You should be taught on how to execute the moves properly and eventually performed them with confidence.
Before you start your program, there are some things to keep in mind in order perform all of the DIY Pilates exercises safely, especially if you are going to use a Pilates machine, like the Pilates reformer. The Pilates reformer can be a little intimidating at first, and you may not know where to start. Understanding how to use the reformer with the guidance of a Pilates instructor is a good start.
Here are some notes on the basic anatomy of the Pilates reformer:
-Carriage: This is the part that you lie down on. The carriage slides up and down when the springs are activated according to the specific exercises you are doing.
-Head rest: Many exercises are done lying down, and this is where you rest your head. The head rest can be adjusted up or down. Set it to flat for certain exercises that need the neck to be lengthen, as in the "Short Spine". And adjusted up so that your head is up slightly which is more comfortable.
-Shoulder Rests: These keeps you in place and stabilized as the carriage slides up and down. They also act as a good indicator of your body alignment on the machine.
-Straps: These are connected to the raisers at the top end of the machine and have handles or loops attached, making it easy to either grab or placed your feet in. Long straps are for the legs and short straps for the hands.
-Foot Bar: This is where you placed your feet according to the exercises to be preformed.
-Spring Resistance: The springs come in different colors which indicate the different tension of the resistance, particular to each individual brand. The springs are loaded both accordingly to the exercises to be performed and your fitness level.
-Long & Short Box: This is actually just one box structure. The terms of long and short refers to how the box is to be placed with reference to the exercise and its position on the carriage. There are both basic and advance moves that can be done on the box. Take special note to get on and off the box with caution.
The Pilates reformer works on the basic principle of "Push and Pull". You will be pulling or pushing yourself on the carriage using the tension of the spring and the weight of your body.
When you have completed your rel=nofollow [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]DIY Pilates exercises, it is important to clean the machine for hygiene purposes and as an act of courtesy. You don't need to use harsh chemicals. Add some droplets of essential oils like lavender, lemon grass to a portion of water in a spray bottle. Spray the Pilates machine, paying particular attention to the handles, carriage, foot bar, and any part that appeared stained or areas you've touched with your hands.
There are of course, other machines that you may want to use as well. The Wunda chair and the Cadillac also provide amazing benefits but it is wise to consider the guidance of a good Pilates instructor to avoid being injured.
The Pilates reformer, however, is the most popular, because of the variety of exercises you can perform easily on it. It is a straight forward and simple to use!
Singapore Pilates Central & Rehabilitation is the only Singapore Pilates Studio that offers customised [http://www.pilatescentral.com.sg/Pilates-Classes/diy-pilates.php]D.I.Y. Pilates that are targetted at your goals. All DIY Pilates exercises are customised according to your needs and goals!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Basic-Fundamentals-of-DIY-Pilates-on-Pilates-Reformer&id=6491957] The Basic Fundamentals of DIY Pilates on Pilates Reformer
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Why You Should Join a Pilates Studio
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Marco_English]Marco English
Are you feeling tired of the boring exercises in the gym? Are you not excited enough to have a brisk walk every single day? Maybe you have come to the conclusion that physical exercises are not for you. Because it involves a lot of work, many people have difficulty taking up physical activities. The resistance to a fitness plan is very common. Let's face it: it is not possible to walk into a drugstore and buy a sort of 'workout in a pill'. Luckily it is possible to find out a physical activity which keeps you motivated enough to carry on with your fitness program. Give yourself a chance to feel healthier and happier by practicing Pilates. Lately, millions of people around the world have decided to practice it. Maybe your best friend is on the list. Maybe your neighbour or workmate. There is a growing number of practitioners worldwide because it really works. It gives you flexibility, body alignment and muscle-strengthening. You deserve to reap the benefits of Pilates exercises.
Created in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates (1883-1967), such a physical fitness system emphasizes both mental and physical well-being through a variety of exercises. It draws attention to breath awareness because proper breathing can do wonders for you. Correct inhalation and exhalation play a key role in every Pilates exercise. It is a kind of breathing which involves concentration, control and precision. Pilates promotes connection between breath practice and movement.
Pilates gives special attention to flexibility and muscle-strengthening. It builds up your muscles. As a result, you get in touch with more energy,resistance and physical power. The firmness of your muscles increases gradually. Besides that Pilates practice is able to bring you an excellent flexibility by stretching your body through a wide range of exercises. Correct postural alignment is extremely important to the practice of Pilates. Different pieces of equipment help you develop proper alignment and posture.
Running out of time to physical activities? Good news! Regular exercise is one way to save time because it gives you more energy for the rest of your day. It boosts overall health. Once you start practicing Pilates, the exercises will provide new insights into the way you look at your body. Is laughter the best medicine? OK! Don't stop laughing, but keep in mind moving is also great. You are responsible for your health. And there is no question about the link between health and well-being.
I'm a professional article writer. [mailto:marcoenglish@gmail.com]marcoenglish@gmail.com [http://www.twitter.com/ESLTipsnow]http://www.twitter.com/ESLTiipsnow
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Join-a-Pilates-Studio&id=6194641] Why You Should Join a Pilates Studio
Are you feeling tired of the boring exercises in the gym? Are you not excited enough to have a brisk walk every single day? Maybe you have come to the conclusion that physical exercises are not for you. Because it involves a lot of work, many people have difficulty taking up physical activities. The resistance to a fitness plan is very common. Let's face it: it is not possible to walk into a drugstore and buy a sort of 'workout in a pill'. Luckily it is possible to find out a physical activity which keeps you motivated enough to carry on with your fitness program. Give yourself a chance to feel healthier and happier by practicing Pilates. Lately, millions of people around the world have decided to practice it. Maybe your best friend is on the list. Maybe your neighbour or workmate. There is a growing number of practitioners worldwide because it really works. It gives you flexibility, body alignment and muscle-strengthening. You deserve to reap the benefits of Pilates exercises.
Created in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates (1883-1967), such a physical fitness system emphasizes both mental and physical well-being through a variety of exercises. It draws attention to breath awareness because proper breathing can do wonders for you. Correct inhalation and exhalation play a key role in every Pilates exercise. It is a kind of breathing which involves concentration, control and precision. Pilates promotes connection between breath practice and movement.
Pilates gives special attention to flexibility and muscle-strengthening. It builds up your muscles. As a result, you get in touch with more energy,resistance and physical power. The firmness of your muscles increases gradually. Besides that Pilates practice is able to bring you an excellent flexibility by stretching your body through a wide range of exercises. Correct postural alignment is extremely important to the practice of Pilates. Different pieces of equipment help you develop proper alignment and posture.
Running out of time to physical activities? Good news! Regular exercise is one way to save time because it gives you more energy for the rest of your day. It boosts overall health. Once you start practicing Pilates, the exercises will provide new insights into the way you look at your body. Is laughter the best medicine? OK! Don't stop laughing, but keep in mind moving is also great. You are responsible for your health. And there is no question about the link between health and well-being.
I'm a professional article writer. [mailto:marcoenglish@gmail.com]marcoenglish@gmail.com [http://www.twitter.com/ESLTipsnow]http://www.twitter.com/ESLTiipsnow
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Join-a-Pilates-Studio&id=6194641] Why You Should Join a Pilates Studio
Friday, March 2, 2012
Improving Health Through The Opportunities Of Balanced Body Pilates
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Luies_Fernandis]Luies Fernandis
Health is an element in life that all people should pay a significant amount of attention to, in order to enhance daily happiness and live a long life. There are many special opportunities an individual can take advantage of to enhance their total health and one of the best resources they can discover, is seen with opportunities that persists with balanced body Pilates. Exercise has always indicated a chief resource individuals can rely upon, concerning improving their overall health and this particular exercise routine can prove to be highly advantageous.
When considering all the benefits that are developed as an outcome of balanced body Pilates, the first prospects which you can take advantage of, is found with the development of strong muscle mass. When most people consider the opportunities that persists with building muscle, they usually associate this with weight lifting and individuals who have acquired massive muscle size. The increase of muscle mass does not represent the only opportunity that will help to strengthen your body and the resources a Pilates can prove to be extremely beneficial to enhancing the overall strength of your muscles, without increasing their mass. This special muscle building prospect is why individuals like acrobats and dancers, utilize these exercise regimes to strengthen their muscles while not becoming excessively bulky.
An extra advantage you can reap the benefits of by making the investment into balanced body Pilates, is seen with making use of an exercise regime that will strengthen your core nothing like any other exercise prospect. Modern exercise prospects have an inclination to focus on the development of single muscle groups, which consume a huge amount of time. When you can get benefitted from a high quality Pilates routine, you will be in a position to get a full body workout that uses every muscle in the body and significantly improves the strength of your core. This is incredibly advantageous when you are looking to improve health, as well as save a significant amount time when it comes to exercise demands.
In order to further improve the outcomes of your Pilates efforts, it would also be advisable to reap the benefits of exclusive opportunities, like balanced body Pilates equipment. While there are several exercise routines you can get benefitted from, which do not need the utilization of equipment, these resources are created to improve the results of your workouts and also increase the opportunity for workout effectiveness. By making investments in high-quality equipment to support your Pilates efforts, you will be able to significantly improve your efforts of increasing health and accomplishing a high quality workout opportunity.
To discover a significant resource to help provide you with all the opportunities that exist with Pilates, as well as the potential of investing in [http://peakpilates101.org]balanced body Pilates equipment, visit [http://peakpilates101.org]http://peakpilates101.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Improving-Health-Through-The-Opportunities-Of-Balanced-Body-Pilates&id=6499850] Improving Health Through The Opportunities Of Balanced Body Pilates
Health is an element in life that all people should pay a significant amount of attention to, in order to enhance daily happiness and live a long life. There are many special opportunities an individual can take advantage of to enhance their total health and one of the best resources they can discover, is seen with opportunities that persists with balanced body Pilates. Exercise has always indicated a chief resource individuals can rely upon, concerning improving their overall health and this particular exercise routine can prove to be highly advantageous.
When considering all the benefits that are developed as an outcome of balanced body Pilates, the first prospects which you can take advantage of, is found with the development of strong muscle mass. When most people consider the opportunities that persists with building muscle, they usually associate this with weight lifting and individuals who have acquired massive muscle size. The increase of muscle mass does not represent the only opportunity that will help to strengthen your body and the resources a Pilates can prove to be extremely beneficial to enhancing the overall strength of your muscles, without increasing their mass. This special muscle building prospect is why individuals like acrobats and dancers, utilize these exercise regimes to strengthen their muscles while not becoming excessively bulky.
An extra advantage you can reap the benefits of by making the investment into balanced body Pilates, is seen with making use of an exercise regime that will strengthen your core nothing like any other exercise prospect. Modern exercise prospects have an inclination to focus on the development of single muscle groups, which consume a huge amount of time. When you can get benefitted from a high quality Pilates routine, you will be in a position to get a full body workout that uses every muscle in the body and significantly improves the strength of your core. This is incredibly advantageous when you are looking to improve health, as well as save a significant amount time when it comes to exercise demands.
In order to further improve the outcomes of your Pilates efforts, it would also be advisable to reap the benefits of exclusive opportunities, like balanced body Pilates equipment. While there are several exercise routines you can get benefitted from, which do not need the utilization of equipment, these resources are created to improve the results of your workouts and also increase the opportunity for workout effectiveness. By making investments in high-quality equipment to support your Pilates efforts, you will be able to significantly improve your efforts of increasing health and accomplishing a high quality workout opportunity.
To discover a significant resource to help provide you with all the opportunities that exist with Pilates, as well as the potential of investing in [http://peakpilates101.org]balanced body Pilates equipment, visit [http://peakpilates101.org]http://peakpilates101.org.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Improving-Health-Through-The-Opportunities-Of-Balanced-Body-Pilates&id=6499850] Improving Health Through The Opportunities Of Balanced Body Pilates
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