Exercise and fitness
Moneycontrol News | March 14, 2024 | Images: Canva
Pilates is a practice that emphasises controlled, precise movements. It's not about speed but rather about executing each movement with intention and proper form
Rushing through exercises can lead to injury. Instead, focus on moving slowly and mindfully, paying attention to how each part of your body is engaged during the exercises
Breathing is a fundamental aspect of Pilates. It's essential to coordinate your breath with your movements for optimal results. Instead of shallow breathing, focus on lateral breathing
Breath into the sides and back of your ribcage to engage your deep core muscles effectively. Place your hands on your ribs to feel them expand as you inhale, and then exhale fully, drawing the ribs gently inward
During exercises where you're lifting your chest off the mat, such as in Mat Pilates, it's crucial to maintain proper neck alignment
Avoid straining your neck by keeping your gaze upward and forward. This positioning helps to lengthen the back of your neck and keeps your cervical spine in a more neutral position
Tension in the shoulders is a common issue, especially when exerting. To counteract this, visualize your shoulder blades sliding down your back as you engage your back muscles
Remember, Pilates is about finding balance and ease in movement, so aim to keep your shoulders relaxed even when working on challenging exercises
Pilates focuses more on creating stability in the core. Your core acts as a stabilising force, supporting your body's movement and alignment
Instead of solely aiming for a six-pack, concentrate on engaging your deep core muscles, such as the transverse abdominis and pelvic floor
These muscles act like a corset, providing stability and strength. Pilates exercises are designed to target these deep muscles, promoting core stability and overall strength