Pilates is an innovative mind-body exercise developed by Joseph Pilates as early as the 1920s. Blending eastern exercise philosophies with western fitness science, Pilates is a holistic discipline that improves physiological fitness, and enhances psychological wellness. It combines the mental focus and specific breathing of yoga and Chinese martial arts with the physicality of gymnastics and other sports movements into an entirely new training regime that accentuates controlled grace in power and flowing beauty in movement. Some have described Pilates as “the wave of the future, combining the allure of rebalancing your mind as you fine-tune from head to toe…”

Pilates dramatically transforms the way your body looks, feels and performs. It builds strength without excess bulk, creating a more toned body, slender thighs and waist, and a flatter stomach. The focus on proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and concentration on smooth flowing movement help create better awareness of your body. Pilates is a gentle, low impact exercise routine that strengthens the back and spine, and yet allows a challenging workout. It is popular with pre- and post-natal women. Pilates is so safe, directed and controlled that it is often recommended by chiropractors for the rehabilitation of body joint injuries and by orthopaedists for the treatment of muscle imbalances surrounding the spine. Dancers appreciate it for the flexibility and agility it develops. Sports persons use it to build strength and endurance. Celebrities and models find that it helps them to maintain their beautiful physique. More than these, Pilates is a refreshing mind-body exercise that relieves stress and anxiety.

Working out in the Pilates method over a period of time will increase your lean muscle mass which helps your body burn more calories, even while you are at rest. As your body is strengthened and lengthened through Pilates, you will find your muscles appear more defined and sculpted in your arms and in your legs. Through constant emphasis on the engagement of your powerhouse, you will find yourself achieving a smaller waistline, flatter abs and a strong core which helps to protect your back and your spine. Your overall muscle tone will increase, you will feel firmer and fitter, and you will stand taller and with more confidence and poise. If you are overweight, you will need to combine Pilates with a healthy, low-calorie diet and some cardiovascular exercise to reduce your body fat. Pilates sessions are not sufficiently cardiovascular to achieve significant weight loss except at its more advanced levels. Alternate your Pilates sessions with a cardiovascular exercise like brisk walking, swimming or dance. Learn to make intelligent food choices. Increase your intake of vegetables and fruits, eat more lean meat, fish and tofu for your dose of protein, and reduce your portions of carbohydrates.

Pilates is fast becoming one of the most popular exercise forms, and one of the easiest to adapt to all ages and lifestyles. Although anyone from 7 to 70 can benefit from Pilates, it should be noted that not every exercise is suited to everyone. Some exercises can be very demanding, and are best performed under professional supervision. Discuss your exercise programme with your instructor. A modification may be needed to enable you to derive the best effect safely.

If you are a beginner, you should sign up first for Pilates Fundamentals and the Initial Consult before moving on to the other programmes on the Mat or on Pilates machines. Classes are usually organised according to your competency level. Engage at your own comfort level. The instructor will understand your level of ability and calibrate the routine accordingly. If you are uncomfortable in a group, or prefer more personalized attention, you may like to opt for private classes.

Although both exercise forms aim at connecting mind and body, Pilates is non-spiritual and takes a scientific approach towards bringing the parts of the body into control and balance. The breathing is different - in Pilates, you pull your stomach in to build abdominal strength, while in Yoga you allow it to expand as you breathe. Pilates is about the body in motion, while Yoga entails holding the body in a variety of poses.

Work on the Mat comprises a series of floor exercises, performed lying on your back, side or front, sometimes complemented with the use of exercise equipment like the magic circle and free weights. A Reformer is a resistance-based machine with a moving carriage that slides along a wooden or metal frame. Springs and ropes provide assistance and resistance, and exercises are performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing. They target the deep abdominal and spinal muscles in order to build core strength. Other equipment like the Cadillac and Wunda Chair are also used to achieve similar effects and breathtaking results.