Pilates is an exercise program that focuses on the core postural muscles that help keep the body balanced and are essential to providing support for the spine. In particular, Pilates exercises teach awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support this alignment, which are important to help alleviate and prevent back pain.
The Pilates exercise program
Pilates is an exercise system named after its originator, Joseph Pilates. Mr. Pilates developed this system in the early 1900’s to improve his health and to support the health of fellow World War I internees. Later, he incorporated the resistance of springs into rehabilitation programs for hospitalized patients, and then translated the use of springs into machines and created the unique equipment now used in the exercise system.
Important principles of the Pilates exercise program include:
· Use of mental focus to improve movement efficiency and muscle control
· Awareness of neutral spine alignment, or proper posture, throughout the exercises
· Development of the deep muscles of the back and abdomen to support this posture
· Use of breath to promote mental focusing and centering
· Creating length, strength, and flexibility in muscles
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