- jaynepobrien
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PILATES
Updated: Oct 11, 2021

There are so many benefits of Pilates, even when doing a regular Pilates practice. Above I am demonstrating Pilates exercises on the mat and different apparatus that show what our bodies are capable of with practice and dedication.
WHO INVENTED PILATES?

I think it is important to add this, as a lot of people have never heard of the man who invented the Pilates method.
Pilates was invented by Joseph Pilates in the beginning of the 20th century. He originally called his exercise method ‘Contrology’ and was renamed ‘Pilates’ after his death.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PILATES?

Here are some of the Pilates benefits I have noticed in myself and clients who commit to doing the practice regularly. It should be done at least twice a week in order to get the desired outcome.
PILATES AND CHANGES IN BODY SHAPE
Regular Pilates sessions will improve muscle tone. It will create long, strong muscles which will overall make your body look longer and leaner. You will move with ease and grace, making you look and feel fit.
PILATES IMPROVES POSTURE
Pilates exercises focus on correct body alignment. As you strengthen your centre (core muscles) around your stomach, buttocks, inner thighs and back, your posture will improve and you will stand taller and more confident.
PILATES INCREASES STRENGTH AND FLEXIBILITY
A Pilates workout includes strengthening and stretching simultaneously, using the mat or the spring resistance on the various Pilates apparatus. This gives you a longer, leaner more toned looking body.
PILATES AND CONTROL
Joseph Pilates called his method “Contrology”
You will learn to move with correct technique, developing strong connections between your mind and body, so you are better able to execute the movements with control.
PILATES IMPROVES BREATHING
"Breathing is the first act of life, and the last. Our very life depends on it"
Joseph Pilates said
“ABOVE ALL LEARN HOW TO BREATHE CORRECTLY”
Inhale and exhale fully to calm the mind, and reduce stress. Helps maintain focus and correct posture during your Pilates workout. Helps to cleanse the body of toxins.
Below I am demonstrating a Pilates mat exercise called the 'Double leg pull'. As my teacher Jay Grimes (who was a student of Joseph Pilates himself) would say 'if you only do one exercise make it this one'. This is a breathing exercise and a reach in both directions from a strong centre (core) helpful during Pilates and in everyday life.

The scorpion is an advanced Pilates exercise. See the photo below on the Pilates apparatus 'the ladder barrel'. Focusing on the basic exercises ( like the one above) is key to building a strong foundation that will help you to increase the strength and flexibility to do this exercise and so many more.

'DO PILATES SO YOU CAN GO AND LIVE YOUR LIFE'
I love this quote from Jay Grimes, we do Pilates so we can go and live our lives with strength and confidence and without pain.
To find out more about how Pilates can enhance your life and help you achieve your goals.
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