Pilates is the system of exercises which was developed by Josef Pilates for development of the muscular corset. Josef developed this system for himself, but subsequently its began to apply to rehabilitation of soldiers and also to training of acrobats. In spite of the fact that Pilates — very effective system of exercises, popularity it got recently.
Principles of Pilates
The efficiency of Pilates is based on the principles enough simple, but it is necessary to follow them. Principles of Pilates:
- smoothness of movements;
- breath;
- isolation and relaxation;
- concentration and centering;
- concentration of movements;
- alignment;
- gradualness;
- regularity of occupations.
The main principle of Pilates is the breath. Before beginning to practice Pilates, it is necessary to learn to breathe. The breath needs to be taken before the start of motion, and exhaled — in the course of performance of the movement. Breath has to be chest, has to provide the maximum saturation with oxygen.
All movements in Pilates are carried out smoothly, without breakthroughs, on average pace. It is necessary to perform exercises so that not to create tension in those zones which aren't involved now. Performing any exercise, you have to be concentrated on technology of performance, without being distracted by foreign thoughts.
When performing exercises it is very important to concentrate on feelings which arise when performing exercises. This principle allows to achieve the maximum effect and to be saved from the trauma. Loading needs to be increased gradually, in process of development of exercises.
Advantage of Pilates
It is very difficult to overestimate advantage of Pilates for the organism. Fluent movements help to stretch and strengthen muscles. At the same time the coordinated work of all departments of the organism is reached. The most important in Pilates — quality of performance of exercises, but not the speed or the number of repetitions.
The feature of Pilates is that small and deep muscles which usually remain "idle" when performing standard set of exercises are even involved in trainings.
Pilates is suitable for all levels of physical training. Pilates is ideal for those who suffer from osteochondrosis, the performed exercises very much make thrifty use of it. Pilates is recommended to those who suffers from chronic back pains, cervical department and shoulders. Cases when by means of Pilates the people completely recovered from these heavy illnesses are known.