Help
Dispelling the Most Common Myths of Pilates
| Author: Lynn McCulloch | Published: 3rd January 2014 12:58 |
Dispelling the Most Common Myths of Pilates
Lynn McCulloch
If you have seen Lynn McCulloch's article last year "10 Myths of Strong Abs", you may be interested to see that Lynn has sent us another article, this time concerning the Most Common Myths of Pilates!
Lynn writes:-
PILATES
What's your understanding?
Over the past 15 years there has been an explosion in demand for Pilates. . In its simplest form Pilates is a method of exercise and physical movement designed to stretch, strengthen, and balance the body. With systematic practice Pilates has proven results improving physical health as well as aiding the prevention and recovery from injury.
As word about Pilates has spread some common myths have emerged. Pilates instructor Lynn McCulloch offers her insight on tackling these myths;
Myth:- "It is only suitable for those recovering from injury"
On the contrary, Pilates is all about avoiding injury. Sports people, especially golfers and tennis players really benefit from the rotational movement; It is massively adaptable with different modifications and progressions allowing individuals to work to their own ability. I instruct parents with young children who want to stay in shape, practice as a family and be able to keep up with their youngsters.
Myth:- "It's just for women"
Definitely not true! - Anyone can benefit regardless of age, gender, fitness ability, (sedentary or athletic) etc. Most of my classes include men, some initially dragged by their other half and some via referrals from their physiotherapist, others still just by word of mouth. Some men simply want to include Pilates as part of their gym and fitness regime.
Myth:- It's the same as yoga"
Although there are some aspects of Pilates similar to Yoga i.e. connecting mind and body, the main focus is on core strength being more dynamic (more movement) than yoga.
Myth:- "It's really easy to do"
People reach this conclusion because Pilates is carried out at a slow pace, but if anything, this makes it more challenging. Pilates is not just tough on the abs but is a total workout. Hugh Grant was quoted as saying he could "easily deal with giving birth" after working through a Pilates session with his instructor!
Myth:- "It's just a fad"
Well it's a fad that has been around for more than 100 years! More and more people are practising Pilates, not just the elite and super fit. David Beckham and Cheryl Cole have raised the profile of Pilates but it is there for all of us.
Myth:- Everything is about flattening the stomach muscles"
Pilates has a number of benefits including improved posture, gaining flexibility and mobility as well as strengthening and toning. And, there is more to the Core than your stomach muscles. The core also encompasses the lower back, which is an area many people have problems with, but, with practice, Pilates can help to ease.
Myth:- "Anyone can teach Pilates"
The regulations around teaching are increasingly robust. Instructors need great commitment and dedication and a great deal of time is spent studying human anatomy coupled with endless hours of practical work. . . Learning how to manage different groups of people is vital as you teach individuals of mixed ability with all sorts of previous injuries. My clients range from 10 year olds to those in their 90's. I really need to understand their different needs and ensure that they are exercising safely. I have to adapt and modify exercises with each particular group. I start by demonstrating an exercise at a lower level and progress to more intense levels. At an elderly residential home where I teach every week, one lady completes her entire Pilates session seated with her handbag resting on her lap... just thinking of it makes me smile!
So, is Pilates right for you? If you are curious and want to know more or want to give it a try, contact Lynn at Effective Pilates. Visit the effectivepilates website (where you can also find contact details) and why not take advantage of the current promotion: Pay just £5 for your first Pilates Class, and with classes all over East Hertfordshire - there's sure to be one to suit you.
Report this article as inappropriate
Comments
You need to log in before you can do that! It's only a quick registration process to join the AMA network and completely free.
Loading...
Help