Did you know that basketball legend LeBron James, soccer star Cristiano Rinaldo, tennis champ Andy Murray and golf pro Tiger Woods all practice Pilates? Although the exercise method is often associated with women and dancers, it was actually developed by a man named Joseph Pilates, who used it to train army troops, interned prisoners and men from all walks of life, as much or more than he trained females and dancers!
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Pilates focuses on controlled movements and proper breathing techniques to strengthen the body's core muscles, improve posture and body mechanics. While many Pilates exercises are performed on a mat, Pilates machines such as the Reformer, Wunder Chair and the Trapeze Table are also used in more advanced workouts through Clinical Pilates. Today, men all over the world are practicing Pilates for its many health and conditioning benefits, and they will tell you adamantly that a Pilates workout is not for the faint-hearted. Many serious athletes include Pilates in their training regime these days, for these five great reasons:
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1. Increased flexibility Pilates uses specific exercises and techniques to increase range of motion in all joints and movements of the body. This can be especially helpful for men, as the structure of their bodies is usually tighter than women's.
2. All-over strength Pilates offers functional strength, meaning the body must maintain correct posture and muscle patterns while building strength. This can bring often-neglected muscles into work with the more commonly trained ones.
3. Great abs Pilates has a unique and targeted repertoire for working the abdominals, unmatched by other methods. The Pilates apparatus offers ways to work the core on a deep level, providing strength inside and out.
4. Stay younger and happier Pilates workouts release internal anti-aging and stress-relieving chemicals into the body, giving a natural high after each session.
5. Prevent and repair injuries Pilates is one of the best ways to prevent injuries from occurring. Health professionals consistently refer to Pilates for rehabilitation, and the results can be astounding.
With all these benefits, it's no wonder that more and more men are incorporating Pilates into their fitness routines. So, guys, if you're looking to start your own Pilates journey, give us a call to get started today.