Pilates Tips

In order for you to get the maximum benefit from your
Pilates workout, you may want to keep the following tips in
mind:

- Stay focused.

- Pilates was designed so that your breathing rhythm
combines with your body movements. Qualified Pilates
instructors will teach you ways to keep the rhythm of your
breathing in sync with the exercises.

You will also be instructed to keep your mind on your
muscles and exactly what you are doing. Pilates main goal
is to unite your mind with your body. This helps to relieve
anxiety and stress.

- Be comfortable.

- Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and bear in mind that
Pilates is typically done without shoes. If you start to
feel uncomfortable, experience pain or feel strained then
it is time to stop.

- Let it flow.

- As you perform your Pilates exercises you should avoid
any quick, jerky movements. Each movement should be slow,
but it should still be strong and flexible.

Joseph Pilates worked with dancers so it was his aim that
the movements would flow like a dance.

- Put your heart into it.

- One of the nice things about doing Pilates is that you
don’t even have to break a sweat.

However, you can choose to work the exercises quickly in an
effort to increase your heart rate, but at all times
keeping the movements fluid.

Since Pilates is mainly about strength and flexibility, you
may wish to pair your Pilates workout with an aerobic
exercise such as brisk walking or swimming.