Pilates is a quiet form of fitness in which, just like yoga, it mainly revolves around the balance between body and mind. Read more.
A big difference is that yoga consists of static poses, while Pilates is about fluid movements.
Abdomen, low back and buttocks are central. This area is called ‘the powerhouse’ in Pilates, or: the center of strength. There is therefore a lot of attention for ‘centering’: moving from the center of the body. Furthermore, Pilates is all about concentration, control, making flowing movements, precision and breathing. The exercises do not result in the build-up of extra muscle mass, but mainly in more flexibility and better posture. This also makes the training form popular with (former) dancers.
The movement form was invented at the beginning of the last century by the German Joseph Pilates, who developed devices in the First World War with which war veterans could start their rehabilitation while lying down.
In special Pilates studios, among other things, training is done with the ‘reformer’: a kind of bed with a sled that slides along a rail. The ‘magic circle’ is a flexible ring that can be placed between hands, ankles and knees. People are individually guided by professional trainers.
In gyms and community centers, group lessons mainly take place on the mat. People can also get started with Pilates at home. A whole pile of books and DVDs has since been published for this purpose. But to avoid injuries, instruction, especially in the beginning, is actually indispensable.
Do I have to go to a sports inspection?
No, unless you have pelvic floor complaints, such as involuntary loss of urine. Then go to the doctor. He or she may first refer to a physiotherapist to work on the complaints.
Do I run the risk of injury?
Pilates strengthens, among other things, the abdominal muscles, which are tightened harder. However, some people tense these muscles too hard and can therefore get (pelvic) complaints.
In general, the exercises must be performed accurately. Individual attention from the instructor is therefore important, and therefore the group may not exceed approximately eight participants.
What is it good for?
With Pilates you can become more flexible and gain more control over the contraction and relaxation of muscles. This improves coordination, and therefore body balance and posture. People no longer slumped, but upright.
Pilates is not pre-eminently the sport to increase muscle strength or to find more peace in yourself. You can get stronger with, for example, training with weights or jumping rope, and more rest in yourself, for example with yoga or running.
Thanks to Vincent Hoogstad, physiotherapist and Pilates instructor.
Sources):
- Plus Magazine
