Pilates is a training method that can be done by people of any age. Due to the numerous health benefits of Pilates , it is a practice recommended by many health professionals.
For example, it is used to improve ergonomics in the workplace. Another very common practice with many health benefits is workplace gymnastics. Check out our guide on this subject:
What is pilates?
This is a stretching method that is good for the body and mind; and can be part of workplace gymnastics . To practice exercises, people use certain equipment and accessories, the aim of which is to improve:
- muscular strength;
- flexibility;
- the balance;
- cardiorespiratory conditioning;
- the posture.
In addition to the specific benefits of the practice, it is worth considering that any physical activity causes the body to produce endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers. Check out our material on the subject:
The person who developed the method applied in the practice of Pilates was Joseph Pilates . He was the first to offer explanations about the theories of internal imbalance in the body.
It has become a widely practiced modality in the United States and throughout South America, where it is used to rehabilitate people or simply as physical exercise. The principles of Pilates are:
- concentration: it is necessary to remain focused during activities so that the movements are performed in the best possible way;
- control: during movements, it is necessary to optimize motor coordination, providing the body with a smooth pattern so that there are no unnecessary contractions in the muscles;
- precision: movements must be performed with maximum precision in order to control the balance of the muscles being worked;
- center: this principle is also called “Power House”, being the focus of all exercises, since the trunk is stabilized by strengthening the muscles and improving posture alignment;
- breathing: breathing must be in sync with the movement, being a fundamental factor of the method;
- fluidity: exercises should be light, movements should be controlled to avoid heavy impacts.
What are the health benefits of Pilates?
Let’s now look at the health benefits that Pilates offers to practitioners. If done correctly, it offers several advantages:
Increased physical resistance
The exercises work on many muscles simultaneously, involving muscles that the person has never worked on before as well as muscles that we are used to strengthening on a daily basis.
Muscle toning
By strengthening muscles, Pilates classes help to build and maintain a six-pack. They help tone the abdomen, which can be used to good effect in physical exercise and sports. Activating the abdominal muscles is required in all physical activities.
Increased flexibility
Flexibility varies from person to person. In addition, it involves criteria such as gender, height, daily activities, posture and others.
To increase flexibility, there are very important movements, such as stretching, performed so that the body stops remaining static all day, sitting in front of a computer.
Thus, there is a greater concentration of blood and, consequently, greater circulation. In this way, there is an increase in the total amount of blood pumped into each muscle.
Correction of postural problems
People with postural problems benefit greatly from Pilates . The habit of maintaining an unhealthy posture contributes to the accumulation of different problems, which can develop into a more serious disorder.
This technique is essential for treating discomfort related to poor posture. It encourages rehabilitative activities in the affected areas and also promotes stretching and flexibility. This scenario encourages the spine to remain in the most appropriate position, which should be maintained in your routine.
As a person exercises, the muscles that support the spine are strengthened. This way, problems can be treated effectively, preventing them from developing further.
When not treated properly, other problems tend to appear over time, resulting from a lack of care with posture. In addition to practicing Pilates, it is worth seeking out a doctor who specializes in the subject.
Promoting less friction in joints
Joints have lubrication known as “synovial fluid.” This fluid lubricates and nourishes the cells in the joints.
However, when there is a lot of friction between the joints, the fluid tends to be less frequent, which causes problems such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
As it offers a series of progressive exercises, Pilates involves exercises that do not cause impact on the muscles.
Furthermore, the movements are not abrupt and, as a result, there is no harmful impact on the joints. This reduces the damage caused by higher impact activities, such as weight training and jumping.
Improved breathing
Breathing, in addition to providing oxygen, maintains control over the muscles. This way, it is possible to better stabilize our spine. This helps to maintain a more correct posture, as well as reducing muscle pain.
It is recommended to inhale strongly and then exhale intensely. All of this improves the practitioner’s performance during the exercises.
The breathing practiced in Pilates leads to improvements in the patient’s life, offering more energy to carry out routine tasks.
The immune system is strengthened, fights diseases and migraines, and eliminates toxins, which allows greater well-being for the patient.
The effects ensure greater well-being for the patient: the immune system is strengthened. Thus, toxins are eliminated and the incidence of illnesses and migraines decreases.
Other advantages of pilates
In addition to these benefits, we can mention other advantages that Pilates provides to those who practice it: promoting relaxation, rehabilitating the body, improving the quality of sleep, increasing energy and combating a sedentary lifestyle .
It also provides some mental benefits. According to the conclusion of a review of 27 studies and four meta-analyses , published in the Journal of Bodywork & Movement Therapies, Pilates even helps reduce the fear of feeling pain!
In the specific case of pregnant women, we can mention the following benefits: breathing control; strengthening of the abdominal muscles; strengthening of the pelvic floor; improved posture; improved circulation; preparation for the moment of childbirth; strengthening of the upper and lower limbs; physical and mental well-being.
What is the importance in the organizational environment?
Organizational environments often generate discomfort, pain and even back problems, which can cause limitations.
Inconveniences tend to increase absenteeism, being one of the reasons for employees to take time off for treatment. In addition to reducing the employee’s quality of life, costs for the company increase, as does a loss of productivity.
In this sense, chiropractic is a valuable tool for transforming reality. It consists of a specialization in Physiotherapy with the aim of treating and preventing muscular problems and other health disorders.
In addition to chiropractic, Pilates and quick massage are solutions that fit well into the work environment.
Pilates helps to minimize employee complaints and improve productivity, self-esteem, quality of life in the company and the organization’s image .