NoDespite being 100 years old, Pilates enjoys excellent health and is “in shape”. A true Method that over the decades has strengthened, developed, fortified, shaped and made the bodies of millions of people, including celebrities, more resistant. And that is has become a truly global phenomenoneven before the birth of social media. And that still continues today conquer people of all ageswho train constantly at least once a week.
Pilates, the first 100 years of a method originally called Controlology
It was the 1926 When Joseph Pilatesa German naturalized American because he did not share the political ideals that were spreading and which permeated the army he had to train, opened a studio in New York. It is here, in the heart of Manhattan, that what is now known as the Pilates method begins to take shape and which, alongside the classic mattress, is also based on the use of tools built by his carpenter brother.
A gymnastics which, as the founder himself declared in an interview given in 1959, takes inspiration from the movements that babies and cats make. But also from other disciplines including bodybuilding and wrestling, yoga and tai-chicombined with a great study of human biomechanics and breathing, the basis of Zen meditation.
«Pilates has benefits for everyone, however it is necessary to point out that this method was invented by a man for men. With this discipline they can improve the strength of coreacquire more flexibility, better posture and prevent injuries” he explains Giorgia Rossaro, pilates teacher who continues «Pilates in fact compensates for the muscular rigidity typical of males, strengthens deep muscles, such as the lumbar and abdominal ones, reduces back pain and increases joint mobility».
A method that was initially called Controlology. In fact, the idea was to develop perfect control of the movement and action of the body. Over the years it then took its name from its own inventor and who it soon became the training followed by dancers in America in the 1930s and 1940s because it helped them improve their technique and recover faster from injuries caused by intensive training.
The secrets of a discipline practiced all over the world
Much more recent than yoga and yet already with millions of enthusiasts around the world, what are its secrets? First of all, just like the ancient Indian discipline, it is suitable for everyone, «even children, especially if the playful part is accentuated. Pilates teaches children to improve their balance, not only physically but also mentally.” Secondly, in addition to muscle development, Pilates aims to improve concentration, breathing, control, precision and fluidity of the body itself: «The benefits of discipline are not only physical, but also extend to mental health. The practice emphasizes concentration, awareness of the breath and the mind-body connection. This approach can help reduce stress, improve mood and increase overall feelings of well-being. Not to mention that, like any physical activity, Pilates stimulates the production of endorphinsthe neurotransmitters responsible for the sense of well-being and happiness.” As well as one feeling of vigor that you feel after each lesson practiced with consistency and commitment and which almost creates an addiction.
Contraindications to the practice? Few. Unless you have deep inflammatory conditions in your muscles or you want to start the activity as a neophyte during the very first months of pregnancy, this discipline is always recommended to everyone. Especially to those who want to regain their lost form: «Although it is not an aerobic workout, It works on the deeper muscles, allowing an increase in basal metabolism and therefore also weight loss. That’s why it is particularly recommended during menopause. In addition to helping manage weight, there is an improvement in muscle tone, balance and bone density, counteracting the loss of lean mass and preventing osteoporosis. Furthermore, strengthen the pelvic floor, reduces insomnia and improves mood thanks to breathing and to conscious movement” explains the teacher.
The secrets that few know about pilates
«Pilates can be done on the mat, i.e. on the mat, or on tools. THEThe choice of the type of training depends on everyone’s physical needswhich is why there is no one type of training that is valid for everyone. The origin of the Method, however, is free bodyall the great tools arrived later to meet the needs of rehabilitation or increase in strength that every Pilates student required”.
«Another aspect that should not be underestimated is that when practicing this discipline it is necessary to be concentrated on the exercises. In this sense it not only increases personal concentration and lowers stress levels. Finally, we often tend to considering Pilates only as a workout: in reality Joseph Pilates’ vision was much broader. In Return to lifeone of his first writings, also gave advice on how to take care of the body, for example on how to wash it. For him it was a real lifestyle» concludes Giorgia Rossaro.