Clinical Pilates refers to a certain method of exercising that include different low-impact flexibility, muscular strength, as well as endurance movements. Pilates generally emphasizes on the proper postural alignment, core strength and the muscle balance. However, Clinical Pilates are not just for fitness fanatics. It also helps strengthen the core muscles to achieve a good balance, better posture, and more flexibility.
What are Clinical Pilates
The word Pilates comes from the name of its creator, Joseph Pilates, the man who developed the exercises way back in the 1920s in Germany. Joseph Pilates was both a carpenter and a gymnast who invented and came up with this very idea of Pilates. While he was in UK, he introduced this exercise program mainly for injured soldiers and dancers.
This man believed that both mental and physical being was necessary for any human to survive and that these two are interconnected. That is, you are not necessarily mentally well, even if you are physically fit. Similarly, you are not to be considered fit physically if you are suffering from any mental illness. Thus with these ideas in his mind, he invented Pilates. In 1920s, he migrated to the US to open a Pilates studio in New York. Initially, he named it as Contrology, a name with people could associate with easily. Hence, in short, Clinical Pilates is a form of workout that helps in strengthening the body with an overall emphasis on core strength, thereby helping to improve the general fitness as well as the wellbeing of the person.
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Pilates and Yoga
It is clear that Pilates is very much similar to Yoga. It also concentrates on human posture, balance, as well as flexibility. The only notable difference between the two is the chance of injury is comparatively lower than as compared to the other forms of exercises. Clinical Pilates, like Yoga, as already mentioned, helps in focusing in achieving the mind-body connection. That is, to understand what your mind and body need to co-exist, to balance, and lead a healthy life.
Misconceptions
As we perform the various exercises, our mind needs to be constantly aware of our breathing and the way in which our body moves. A common mistaken belief is that Pilates are strictly for professional athletes and dancers. These two groups are not the only ones that can profit from this strength training.
One of the most common confusion is that Clinical Pilates require some sort of specialized equipment for practice. However, that is just a myth. Pilates has a common apparatus, popularly known as a Reformer and looks no less the frame of a bed along with a sliding carriage and adjustable springs, and looks similar to that of a trapeze table. Many physicians often tell you to go and buy this apparatus but that is just a waste of money. In fact, you do the Pilates at your home and all you need is a mat. You can practice it on the floor itself.
Pilates for Everyone
If you’re in your mid-thirties or forties and you do not exercise often or at all or if you have health conditions, then check with your doctor before you join any new workout plan. Clinical Pilates is not an exception. Likewise, expecting mothers should consult their health care providers before they start these exercises. In addition, Pilates is something that anyone and everyone can practice irrespective of age and weight. You should adjust the Pilates so that they are gentle and easy on your body. You can modify and adjust the program according to your requirements whether you are an athlete or not.
