31 August,2010 06:46 AM IST | | FYI Team
Developed as a form of exercise for returning war veterans after the First World War, pilates is an exercise method that engages the mind and body, and will challenge fitness levels
I have to warn you that the Pilates method of exercising may be harmful for you ufffd it may ruin your illusion that you are strong and fit. At least that's what happened to me.
My experience
I was incredibly curious about this particular form of exercise that had people the world over, from gymnasts to dancers, exercising on rather strange looking contraptions.
After researching Pilates, I was all set to attend my first class with Yasmeen Karachiwala, my instructor.
But at the back of my mind there was always the thought that the class might be my last, because, after all, I had been training in the gym for years, and this might be too easy for me.
One hour into the class, that illusion was shattered forever. As I struggled and crawled through my first class, I recall being introduced to muscles I had never met before.
What is Pilates?
Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s. It was started as a rehabilitation programme for prisoners of war, and found to be of great benefit.
Pilates includes exercises for every part of the body. Exercises are performed on a mat, and on specially designed equipment.
Pilates strengthened my core
I can tell you from personal experience one of the greatest benefits of Pilates is the increased strength that one can achieve in the 'core' of the body.
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The term 'core' refers to the muscles in and around the abdominal area and the back. Your newfound strength will help realign posture and help you stand tall.
Benefits
Pilates increases the strength of the stabiliser muscles. A major benefit of Pilates is that it engages the mind like yoga, tai chi, and Asian martial arts.
Also, you can use Pilates to strengthen specific weak muscles. It can help you recover from, as well as prevent injuries.
Hollywood actress Jennifer Aniston reportedly said that her chronic back, pinched nerve and hip problem were all completely solved because of Pilates.
Who can do Pilates?
In case you think that only people at a certain fitness level can do Pilates, let me tell you that it can be done by anyone from the age of 10 to 100 years.
The intensity of the workout will depend on your concentration level, and the machines can be adjusted to suit specific fitness levels.
Until next week, happy strengthening!
As told to Dinesh Raheja (Bollywood News Service)
