by Lisa Stephens

Created on: July 24, 2009

Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on the body as a whole. It encompasses not only the body, but the mind and spirit. Joseph Pilates developed the techniques of Pilates training in the 1920s. He called his work "contrology" due to his mind/body/spirit approach to movement that uses key components that we now call the Six Principles of Pilates. It was his belief that for a person to be completely physically fit, they also must have a healthy attitude and aspect on life.

Pilates has increased in popularity over the years, not only for its benefits of increasing strength and flexibility, improving posture and muscle tone, but because it is a form of exercise that anyone of any age or fitness level can perform and yield it's many benefits. Here are a few of the top benefits of incorporating a Pilates routine into your lifestyle.

Pilates develops core strength. A main focus in Pilates is strengthening the core muscles of the body. These are the deep muscles from just below the rib cage to the pelvic floor. By focusing on the core muscles you will improve your flexibility and stability of the spine. Pilates exercises are performed with controlled movements, and with complete concentration on each part of the body. Performing these exercises over time will improve your posture and body alignment, which in turn helps to improve the overall shape of your body.

Pilates helps to prevent future injuries. The exercise methods of Pilates strengthen and condition the whole body, and not just certain isolated muscles. This helps to create and maintain balance of the muscle and the strength of the body. As you perform the techniques of Pilates your body becomes more aware of what each muscle is doing, your movements become more fluid, and there is less chance for injury. It is no wonder why so many athletes, from dancers to ball players, have incorporated Pilates exercises in their regular workout training.

Pilates is a form of whole body fitness. Unlike many other forms of exercise, Pilates doesn't over-develop certain parts of the body and not others. It is uncommon to find someone that has generated "bulk" or big muscles, just by performing Pilates. Pilates focuses on training the body as an integrated whole. The workouts of Pilates generate a balance between strength, muscle development, and flexibility of the spine and joints of the body. Each movement in Pilates is done with complete concentration and control. Joseph Pilates himself called

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