Pilates is an effective form of exercise that when practiced faithfully can reap many rewards. IT IS FOR ALL PEOPLE DESPITE MOVEMENT RESTRICTIONS AND EXPERIENCE! Created by Joseph Pilates almost 100 years ago, the discipline has been proven to be beneficial and the reputation it has for maximizing personal health is growing worldwide. The proper use of breath is a key component in the Pilates repertoire and, when achieved, can increase lung capacity and improve circulation. Pilates consists of 34 original mat exercises which can be made more challenging by the use of props.
There is also a machine and apparatus component to the Pilates repertoire which includes the Reformer (a moving carriage that slides along a wooden or metal frame via four springs), a Cadillac (another medieval looking contraption with springs and bars), a Chair, a Spine Corrector, an Arc Barrel, a 
Ladder Barrel, a Pedi-Pull, and a Foot Corrector.
Pilates focuses on the deep muscles that support the vertebral column and the pelvic viscera; if strengthened uniformly they are able to support our natural movements without compromise. When larger muscles compensate for the the lack of smaller muscles an imbalance is created in the body. Joseph Pilates was also convinced that such imbalances were also reflected in the mind.
The preferred exercise of the stars, Pilates is available to people of varying age, size, and ability, and is especially effective for those with physical restrictions - scoliosis, frozen shoulders, herniated discs - who are unable to perform optimally at other forms of exercise. It is for this very reason that Pilates is frequently recommended by health-care professionals.
Many people come to Pilates because their movement is compromised due to previous injuries or lower back and neck issues; therefore, they may wish to work at a more deliberate and concentrated pace which Pilates is able to facilitate. This might explain why so many people stick with Pilates – it has integrity!
The Benefits of Pilates:
· Stimulates circulation and teaches proper breathing mechanics increasing focus and energy levels and in turn, decreasing stress levels.
· Strengthens the abdominals, which takes stress off the lower back and neck.
· Strengthens the entire body, which makes it less vulnerable to injury.
· Identifies negative habitual movement patterns and attempts to mitigate them; e.g., constant lifting of the shoulders when reaching across the desk, standing on your heels, walking with your weight on the outside of your feet, overall poor posture, etc.
· Increases flexibility, coordination, and alignment.
· Sharpens one's awareness and brings an overall feeling of well-being to the body.
· Tones, slims and defines - buttocks, abdominals, waistline, hips, inner thighs, and arms.
How it Works:
Pilates instructors will often observe how an individual moves and will make suggestions on how the client can improve his/her movement so less effort is required and a more efficient movement pattern can be adopted. Faulty or compromised movement mechanics, and shallow or restricted breathing habits are identified and eventually replaced with more productive techniques. Through repetition healthier movement patterns emerge and prosper. The Pilates repertoire is the medium by which we work to gauge and encourage such changes. Clients will often comment on how they feel a new found awareness regarding their physical bodies. The goal of the instructor is to lead the client toward becoming autonomous. It is also our wish that the individual might transfer some of the Pilates attributes to other areas of his/her life.
Many instructors work in rehabilitative settings, gyms, and studios. Pilates is also gaining popularity in the public school system (USA).
