Get Ready to Bend and Stretch: An Introduction to Beginner Pilates
Pilates is a physical exercise system that focuses on core strength, body conditioning, balance, and flexibility. It can help strengthen muscles, reduce pain, and promote relaxation and mindfulness. As with any new exercise routine, it’s important to begin slowly and carefully. But first…
Where does Pilates originate?
Despite common misconception, Pilates was not created by women or even by dancers; it was actually invented by German-born Joseph Pilates in the first half of the 20th century. His revolutionary form of mind-body movement, which he called ‘Contrology’ but is more popularly known as ‘Pilates’, was created by a man who made it his mission to develop an approach to fitness that was both physical and mental. He was apparently inspired by other forms of exercise such as bodybuilding, calisthenics, gymnastics, martial arts, and yoga, but also the movement of animals - in particular, cats!
Overcoming adversity through movement
In addition to being forward-thinking, Joseph Pilates’s system also had elements of resilience built into it. He had experienced various medical issues from an early age (it is suggested he had rickets as well as asthma as a young child) and developed his exercises as a way to strengthen his body accordingly — ultimately leading him to invent what we now know as Pilates. Just how he started the Contrology method is not completely agreed upon, but Joseph eventually moved to America and opened his own Contrology gym in New York City. He continued teaching his method until his passing in 1966.
The benefits of practicing Pilates
Today, Joseph Pilates’ legacy remains strong with hundreds of studios dedicated solely to teaching the practice he pioneered over a century ago; proving just how timeless this approach can be. As well as helping people improve their physical strength and condition, additional benefits such as pain reduction (particularly back pain); improved coordination and flexibility; decreased stress levels; increased feelings of motivation; plus improved sleep quality can be expected. All these factors come together to provide numerous benefits for those who commit themselves to working out regularly with this unique exercise style. Want to get started?
What you need for beginner Pilates
To get started with beginner Pilates, you will need a few things:
A comfortable space to practice in
Comfortable clothing – avoid anything too loose or tight
A mat or floor padding
Depending on your particular exercises, you may want other props such as a stability ball, Magic Circle, yoga blocks, weights, or resistance bands
Starting your first session
If you’re ready to give beginner Pilates a try, be sure to start off slow and to listen to what your body is telling you. Many people want to dive in and become an expert straight away; however, if you are coming back from injury or haven’t exercised in a while, it is important to work at your own pace and build from there. Remember that this is meant to be enjoyable too; take a break if needed between movements so that you don’t burn out too quickly!
Achieve Pilates offers semi-private classes, and can adjust your sessions to suit your needs - so why not contact Anna for more information in today?
Want to know more?
References:
For you history nerds out there! Joseph Pilates wrote two books that might interest you:
“Your Health - A corrective system of exercising that revolutionizes the entire field of physical education.” (1932)
“Pilates’ Return to Life Through Contrology” (1945)
The second of which includes all 34 original contrology method exercises.
John Howard Steel, one of Joseph Pilates’ students, also wrote a book called:
“Caged Lion - Joseph Pilates & His Legacy” (2020) which is definitely worth a read.