Pilates was developed over 75 years ago, intended to aid dancers in preventing injuries.  Pilates which is pronounced (Pi-lah-tis) is a method that strengthens core muscles and develops body alignment.  It works by continually stretching limbs and torso, ensuring limbs become longer and leaner.  The founder, Joseph Pilates, grew up in Germany during the WW1.  He was a sickly and skinny child and because of this, he grew self-conscious.  He became intrigued with the Greek ideal of balance and mind, and that a body can be both beautiful and flexible.  He taught himself physiology and anatomy and became an acrobat.  Touring with the circus during the war, he was interned as a National Alien in England.  He kept everyone in his cellblock breathing and moving his or her limbs.  He invented something called a "bednasium", for bedridden patients.  While others were dying from the flu in 1918, his cellblock was alive and well. 

  Pilates is a proven toning and conditioning technique that focuses on strengthening muscles without forcing them.  It can deliver impressive results for all ages and body types, from the first timer to the top athlete and from back pain sufferers, to those who suffer from stress.  Practiced on a mat, Pilates does not require any special equipment, and practiced faithfully can yield numerous benefits.  Deep breathing is the primary focus to strengthen lung capacity and circulation.  Strength and flexibility of the abdomen and back muscles, co-coordinating muscles and the mind, are key components in a Pilate’s program.  Posture, balance and core strength are all abundantly increased.  Bone density and joint health improve and many have better body awareness for the first time.  Pilates teaches balance and control of the body which translates into everyday living. 

  Pilates is build around eight basic principles:

1. Relaxation

2.Co-ordination

3.Alignment

4.Stamina

5.Concentration

6.Centring

7.Breathing

8.Flowing Movements

Getting Started

  One of the great things about Pilates, is that everyone from couch potatoes to fitness buffs can do it.  There are lots of classes available because of its growing popularity, especially at YMCA's and fitness centers.  Some instructors provide private lessons, which can be purchased separately or in a block of classes, which could combine mat and machine workouts.  If you opt to do Pilates at a health club, make sure you have a qualified instructor when it comes to the machinery.  The fact that Pilates has become so hot can have a downside with inadequate instruction.  As with other forms of exercise you can injure yourself, especially if the instructors are not properly qualified.  Look for certified instructors who have completed several hours of training, and know how to modify the exercises so new students won't get hurt.  Beginners start with basic exercises and build up to the more advanced positions. To get the most out of your workout here are some tips:

Stay focused: Pilates is designed to combine breathing with body movement.  Instructors will teach you how to keep your breathing working with the exercises.  Concentrate on your muscles and what you are doing.  The goal of Pilates is to unite mind and body, which relieves stress and anxiety.

Be comfortable:  Wear comfortable loose clothing, and keep in mind Pilates is usually done without shoes.

Let if Flow:  When you are exercising avoid any quick or jerky movements.  Each movement should be slow, but still strong and flexible.  Joseph Pilates worked with dancers so the moves must flow like a dance. 

Don't leave out heart:  The nice thing about Pilates is you don't need to break a sweat.  However you can work the exercises quicker to get your heart rate going.  You can even pair your Pilates workouts with aerobic exercises like swimming or brisk walking.