Definition of Pilates
Pilates is defined as a type of exercise that aims to strengthen the body in general and improve its physical fitness, in addition to enhancing its flexibility and ability to balance; [1] by focusing on exercising individual muscles that increase strength The spine and the joints on which the skeleton in the human body rests,[2] and this type of exercise focuses on coordinating good communication between the body and the mind; Who must be aware and fully aware of the way the body moves and breathes.
It should be noted that this sport was named after its German founder Joseph Pilates (in English: Joseph Pilates); Who saw that there is a close connection between mental and physical health, and from this standpoint Joseph established exercises that were influenced by some types of Western sports such as gymnastics, boxing, and wrestling, [3] After his emigration to the United States of America in the twenties of the twentieth century, Platts opened a special center for teaching his new method of The exercise, which he had called at the time Contrology.
Doing Pilates
Pilates can be practiced by all age groups, regardless of the different levels of fitness in these groups. However, it is recommended to take advice and advice from a specialist doctor before practicing Pilates by a person who has any medical record.
Or the risk of blood clots, and it is preferable to start practicing this sport by exercising with the help of a certified trainer, so that the person ensures that his practice of this sport is done correctly, and gyms usually contain a Pilates device, which is an exercise device that contains belts and springs connected to add resistance person while exercising.
Pilates exercises can be practiced at home by using some digital educational materials that can be watched and then accurately imitated using special equipment. Like a mat that is placed on the floor, the movements of Pilates may seem simple, but they require a lot of precision and control, and the completion of one Pilates lesson usually requires a period ranging from forty-five minutes to an hour, and by a few days per week
The difference between pilates and yoga
Pilates and yoga uses a variety of exercises that focus on increasing the strength of the body and developing its balance and flexibility, in addition to improving the way a person breathes. However, each of these two sports has a different method of performance and characteristics that distinguish it from the other.
While yoga focuses more on meditation and relaxation, Pilates is a physical sport that focuses on enhancing the strength of the body, and while yoga does not require any equipment to practice it, Pilates is practiced on mats and its devices, and one of the other differences between these two sports is that the patterns The movement in Pilates is done according to a specific movement sequence, while in Yoga, it is practiced in fixed positions.
Benefits of Pilates
1- Accustom the body to stay in a good and sound position.
2- Increase body muscle strength and sculpting.
3- Increase body flexibility and improve its balance.
4- Reduce feelings of stress.
5- Giving the person a general feeling of happiness and contentment.
6- Increase the ability to get rid of excess weight.