Today there are literally dozens exercise classes for you to choose from and many of them are great at keeping you in shape! Whether you prefer working with weights, cycling, dancing or stretching it out, you can find an exercise class in your community that can accommodate you.

Although many different exercises promise to deliver a full body workout, very few actually do. Most will focus on just the lower part of the body, or the upper part of the body, so, muscle groups are often left unattended. As a result, many exercise classes can leave you with pain and other problems that increase the more often you take the classe. The best types of exercises are those that focus on your entire body and benefit your well-being. One particular exercise that provides strength to your entire body and give you great peace of mind is Pilates.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is one of the newer full body exercises that promises to work every part of your body like yoga, to improve your mind and spirit as well. The central theme of Pilates is that it is an exercise designed to strengthen your core muscles which are responsible for your balance, as well as strengthening every other muscle group.

Pilates was scientifically developed to provide a series of movements that appear simple, and when done properly and in a specific order, create all sorts of health benefits. Some of the best benefits can deliver sculpted muscles and much better flexibility. When you take a Pilates class, you will also see your posture improve and find a greater sense of well-being.

There are Two Types of Pilates

Today there are two forms of Pilates. One is considered the purest form of Pilates and students only need a mat to go through the exercise routines. These simple yet structured movements are designed to build your core strength gradually and to lower your stress levels. There’s a second type of Pilates that utilises special equipment. The equipment includes a combination of springs, bars, straps and pulleys. Typically students will participate in the fundamentals of Pilates on the mat, before they move on to utilizing equipment in their exercises. The machines have specific names that include:

  • Reformer
  • Pilates chair
  • Resistance bands
  • Cadillac/Trapeze
  • BOSU
  • Tower

When you take an equipment Pilates class, you will find that it is focused on full body strength training workouts. The workouts are strenuous and designed to improve your muscle tone and strength as well as joint mobility, stamina and overall flexibility.

No matter which type of Pilates class you take you can be assured to receive a range of full body benefits. Here are just a few:

  • Improved Core Strength
  • Toned Muscles
  • Increase Upper and Lower Body Flexibility
  • Reduced Back and Neck Pain
  • Reduced Pelvic Pain
  • Great Prevention of Injuries
  • Improved Coordination and Balance
  • Better Posture