Joseph Pilates, the man who created the Pilates group of exercises was a sickly child. He suffered from rickets, asthma and rheumatic fever. But his poor health became his inspiration. At age 14, he took the solution to his fitness problems into his own hands by engaging in exercise and body building.

Pilates is a fitness regime designed to balance, stretch and strengthen the body with particular emphasis on the deep torso muscles. It also uses the mind to improve movement, efficiency and muscle control, which why it is often said that Pilate exercise somehow improves one's mental state.

The Benefits of Pilates

You will experience many benefits from following a Pilates exercise program. Here's a list of a number of them:

* Lean, toned body shape.

* A stronger and healthier back.

* Stronger muscles but without the bulk.

* Improved posture.

* More efficient respiratory and circulatory systems.

* Greater flexibility and joint mobility.

* Less incidence of back pain.

* Relaxation and stress relief.

The focus on the body core deep muscles within the back, buttocks and abdomen are what differentiates Pilates from other exercise regimes.

Mat work, in particular, demonstrates the point that the body is the only tool needed to achieve physical fitness. There really is no need to exercise strenuously and possibly cause injury to your body. With Pilates a good work out does not need to leave you exhausted and sore. Some of the exercises can be carried out in as little as 10 minutes so it is a great time saver as well, compared to other fitness methods.

If you would like to follow a Pilates regimen it is best to consult a private instructor. They will guide you on how to properly use the equipment and demonstrate the mat work. They will be able to show you where the weakness and strength of your body lies and design a program for you accordingly. This will ensure that you will gain the full benefits of Pilates routine safely and in the fastest time.

The benefits of Pilates are numerous and with continued practice, the movements can be mastered and the benefits from a strengthened body to a calmer mind, clearly felt.