Pilates is a popular sport, attracting top stars in the U.S., Korea, and Europe. This exercise technique is not only good for health physically but also mentally.
Pilates is a full-body exercise that enhances physical strength, flexibility, body shape, and mental health. This exercise method was invented in the early 20th century by a German physical trainer, Joseph Pilates. Additionally, Pilates is considered the least injured sport, thus suitable for all ages and genders, even those who are suffering from bone diseases.
Especially, all 4 Blackpink ladies love Pilates and apply this exercising method to maintain a stable weight and slim body.
Generally, Pilates is quite similar to Yoga, but actually, they are different. Pilates is inspired by Yoga, both concentrate on the coordination between the body and the breath constantly. Still, Pilates requires specialized equipment and takes great concentration to control the continuous movements of the body. Meanwhile, yoga focuses more on the mind to give the practitioner a sense of peace and relaxation.
Compared to Yoga, Pilates movements burn more calories, thus providing greater weight loss benefits, helping the muscles develop evenly, and bringing a balanced physique. That is also the reason why many top celebrities, and superstars worldwide choose Pilates to stay in shape and improve health. Kate Hudson, a Hollywood star, stated that she has stuck to Pilates for 15 years to stay fit. Even Pilates is included in Cristiano Ronaldo's exercise list to maintain strength and muscle. He also shared that he prefers Pilates to build muscle over weightlifting.
Here are some amazing benefits of Pilates:
Lose weight and keep fit
While other exercises only affect certain parts of the body, Pilates exercises have a strong impact on all muscle groups in the body, thus effectively losing total body weight and fat. Persistence training helps you own a toned, fat-free body. Moreover, continuous movements also help your body increase metabolism and promote greater fat burning.
Spine benefits
Pilates is famous for its ability to strengthen the spine. According to research by the Postgraduate Medical Journal, proper Pilates exercising is one of the effective ways to deal with low back and spine problems. Evidently, Pilates exercises help stretch muscles and increase balance in the back. Therefore, back muscles will be firm, strong, and flexible with a combination of movement between other muscle areas, thus minimizing back diseases and pain.
Memory improvement
Pilates encourages concentration to control continuous movements of the body, keeping the brain engaged at all times. Exercising increases the size of the hippocampus - the part of the brain responsible for memory and cognitive function. Consequently, it helps to boost memory and protects the brain from Alzheimer’s disease, which is a type of memory loss. Referring to research from Illinois University at Urbana-Champaign, brain function operates significantly after exercising Pilates or Yoga rather than aerobics.
Relaxation and Stress reduction
Pilates is considered one of the best exercises to help improve spirit, refresh the mind, and dispel all stress and pressure in daily life. As Pilates helps loosen tight muscles and relax muscles, meaning that stress is removed from the body and mind as well. Elizabeth Scott, a wellness trainer, stated that “Exercise can decrease ‘stress hormones’ like cortisol, and increase endorphins, your body’s ‘feel-good’ chemicals, giving your mood a natural boost”.
Apart from the aforementioned benefits of Pilates, this exercise takes a longer time to gain an expected result. Additionally, doing Pilates the wrong way such as breathing incorrectly or not focusing on posture will not only not achieve the desired results but also cause injury, including head, neck, and pelvic injuries. Therefore, it is highly recommended to exercise Pilates with a professional coach.
