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| Pilates is a unique system of exercise with its own specialized equipment. |
Looking for a gentle, effective exercise that will improve joint function and range of motion while making you longer and leaner at the same time? Then you may just find what you are looking for in a Pilates studio.
The History of Pilates
Both the Pilates equipment and philosophy were invented by German-born gymnast Joseph Pilates to aid in the rehabilitation of World War I veterens who were not healing from their injuries using conventional means.
After the war, Mr. Pilates moved his practice from Germany to New York City where he opened a studio in close proximity to the New York City Ballet. From there the exercise swiftly gained favor with the elite of the dance, operatic, and acting crowd and, by 1950, had become a sensation with Hollywood elites like Marilyn Monroe.
Pilates as a powerful rehabilitative tool
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| Actress and Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferer Kathleen Turner insists that Pilates "Saved her life". |
In recent years, Pilates has enjoyed a "comeback" among the rehabilitative crowd, with physical therapy/Pilates franchises springing up in some parts of the country. Film star Kathleen Turner is an avid Pilates enthusiast, claiming that Pilates twice a week has helped her reduce the debilitating symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis that have threatened to cripple her since 1992.
"Pilates, baby! Twice a week. Says Ms. Turner. "Pilates saved my life."
In addition, Pilates has become popular with men and women of all ages and athletic ability who are looking to improve core strength, functionality and fitness. "The mind, body, spirit connection is greatly important" Says Lucille Noggle, classical Pilates instructor at Wellbridge Health Center in Prescott, AZ. "A fitness program needs to focus on the whole person. The exercise that helps you achieve correct alignment and posture will also affect how you feel about yourself and how you interface with life".
Lucille recommends that a novice begins with 8-10 private Pilates sessions in the studio. In a private session new clients will learn the best exercises and the correct modifications for their body and any existing dysfunction or injury that they may have. In a private session they have trained eyes watching how they move, detecting any dysfunctional movement and helping inspire them. Once individuals have a little background in Pilates, group mat classes or duet equipment classes are popular and affordable options for many.
Pilates and your health:
Pilates can:
- reduce stress
- speed post surgical healing
- rid individuals of back pain
- alleviate symptoms of incontinence
- improve flexibility and functionality
- preserve health and integrity of your joints
- enhance recovery in joint replacement patients
- reduce the chance for injury for individuals whose balance may be compromised by age or disease.
The concept and goals of Pilates pair very well with Chiropractic care. Pilates does have its own insurance code and some insurance plans will cover it if you obtain an exercise prescription from your medical or Chiropractic physician. When choosing a Chiropractor, look for one who understands the exercise and values it for its unique therapeutic benefits.
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Wellness Coach in Prescott
About the Author:
Juli Dalton is the owner and Patient Care Coordinator of
Wellbridge Health Center, LLC in Prescott, Arizona.
