Pilates

Pilates is an exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20^th century. Being a sickly (asthmatic) child himself, he tried to find new ways to combat his illness and maintain his health. While working as a nurse during the First World War, he was able to devise exercises and their corresponding equipment to aid returning immobilized soldiers in walking again.

With these noble beginnings, it grew to be an exercise method that is used not only by medically challenged individuals but also by dancers, athletes, movie personalities, and ordinary people. The method was declared as for generic and unrestricted use - therefore, many styles may be considered as the "right style" by various trainers and practitioners.

Governing Principles

No matter if the styles differ across practitioners, there are governing principles that have to be followed in order for the exercise to be "valid". This activity has to be done with the right breathing techniques - exhaling is as important as inhaling. This is to ensure that the body is adequately oxygenated while the wastes and toxins are effectively eliminated. Here, breathing should be coordinated with the right body movements. The pilates courses will teach the students of the proper breathing techniques in this exercise.

This form of exercise focuses on the body's powerhouse - comprised of the body's center parts: from the buttocks and hips up to the lower back and abdomen. This powerhouse is the body's center of physical energy that can then facilitate the movement of other body parts, even up to the extremities.

The pilates classes will also require intense focus and concentration - such is the focus on concentration that even the minute, delicate movements must be noted at all times. Along with concentration comes control and precision of all the actions related to the exercise. That means that sloppy, uncontrolled movements are a no-no. Also, because each part or movement of the exercise has its own significance, absolutely nothing must be left out else the purpose of the exercise - and its goal - is defeated.

The People

Because this exercise was originally meant as physical therapy to immobilized soldiers, it is no wonder that it is applicable to disabled exercisers. That is why the pilates trainer must understand the exercise so much that he or she is able to impart that knowledge to the students and create routines that can cater to the individual needs of the students - even differently-abled ones.

Although it is considered safe enough to be used by disabled and pregnant exercisers, such groups are advised to do pilates workout only with a fully trained and certified expert.