What is Pilates?
The Pilates Method is a system developed to improve strength and flexibility without building bulk. It brings the body back into alignment, making it longer, leaner and more toned.
Pilates is a non impact form of body conditioning that focuses on strengthening and balancing the muscles of the body, particularly the abdominals and back. Pilates assists in injury prevention and is useful in injury rehabilitation.
The Pilates Method is not just exercise, it is a total mind and body experience. Joseph Pilates believed that your mind controls your muscles and diverts your body through precise movements and functions. That is what the Pilates Method achieves. It is a series of controlled movements that engage the mind and body.
Pilates works to correct muscle imbalances by strengthening weak muscles and elongating the bulky muscles. The emphasis is placed on using the deep abdominal muscles to create a strong and stable spine.
Pilates invigorates you, both on the inside and outside! A Pilates workout will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated with every muscle having been stretched and strengthened
MAT OR REFORMER EQUIPMENT?
Pilates is most often performed on a mat or a Reformer. A reformer is a resistance-based piece of equipment with a moving carriage that slides along a wooden or metal frame. Springs and ropes provide assistance and resistance, and exercises are performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing.
Many pilates enthusiasts prefer working on Reformers, which offer more resistance and support than a mat. Others love the flexibility of mat workouts, which allow you more flexibility in where and when you work out.
Reformer allegro is more fitness based than mat.
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