One of the more popular exercise programs of the last few years has been Pilates, both the floor work and use of the Pilate machine, particularly the Pilates Reformer. These focus, to a great degree, on the core muscles of your abdomen. These postural muscles are crucial for balance and the support of your spine.
One of the first things you will learn, if you decide that Pilates is the best exercise regimen for you, is the idea of being acutely aware of the neutral positioning of the alignment of your spine. In addition, it focuses on developing strength to the core postural muscles that help sustain this alignment.
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise program developed by Joseph Pilates while interned in a prison camp during World War I as an aid to not only his own health and well being, but for his fellow prisoners as well. Later, Joe added the resistance of metal springs in his rehabilitation regimens for hospitalized patients. He then used these springs in the design of...you guessed it- the first Pilates machine. These machines are now used world wide in conjunction with the more popular floor exercises.
Joe's system was first widely used by the professional dancing community. It was clear to them what a valuable find this was, in that it seriously improved, not only their flexibility, but their torso strength. Rediscovered in the 1980s, it has become one of the most popular exercise programs on the face of the planet.
Pilates Machines
One of the more popular of the Pilates machines is the Reformer. This machine has a flat carriage that you sit on and through the use of springs and a pulley system, you pull your body weight as the carriage slides along on its track. You are able to move the platform either by a push off from the stationary bar or by a pull on the ropes. When you do Pilates exercises with the Reformer, they become quite challenging because you must move the platform but at the same time maintain your balance on a surface that moves. Recently Pilates has often been combined with yoga for a greater synergistic affect.
Pilates has become so popular these days that there are generally classes at most local gyms and health clubs. Stop by one today and check out a Pilates machine. You be glad that you tried Pilates machines once you've tried them.