How often should I practice Pilates?
You should aim to fit in two to three sessions per week. As with any exercise plan consistency is the key to obtaining results.
Will Pilates improve my flexibility?
Pilates improves flexibility and range of motion without compromising strength. When performing Pilates, you are simultaneously strengthening and stretching your muscles.
Can Pilates help me lose weight?
Pilates is not a cardiovascular workout and in order to lose weight you have to burn calories. However, Pilates can be a great way to lose inches, by firming the muscles and slimming the waistline.
What is the difference between Pilates and Yoga?
There are similarities between the two disciplines. Both emphasize the importance of breathing and building flexible strength. The difference is in the way they are practiced. Yoga is a series of poses that are static. Pilates is flow and movement based exercises.
What is the difference between Pilates and other forms of abdominal training?
Pilates focuses on developing a strong core. Although it involves the abs, core strength is not about having a visible six-pack. The core muscles include not only the abdominals (specifically the transverse abdominus, the deepest layer of abdominal muscles) and lower back, but also the muscles of the pelvic floor, buttock and hips. Traditional abdominal training focuses only on the superficial layer of abdominal muscles, the rectus abdominus or the six-pack.
Who can benefit from Pilates?
Pilates is for everyone, from young to old, sedentary to athletic. It is for people who are strong or weak, flexible or inflexible. It is great for rehabilitation from injury and is often recommended by doctors, physical therapists and chiropractors. Pilates also opens up the vertebrae in the lower back and can be a great relief for those who are suffering from lower back pain.
What kind of results can I expect?
Practicing Pilates on a regular basis will help you to achieve a healthier body and mind. As a runner you can expect to build long, strong muscles, improve flexibility and lessen your chance for injuries. The way Pilates opens up the vertebrae in the lower back, in particular, helps to prevent the sort of back injuries which can result from constant impact involved in running.
Physically you can expect to:
- Lose inches
- Increase mobility and flexibility, especially in the low back, shoulders, and hips
- Improve balance and coordination
- Decrease back pain and stiffness
- Improve your posture
- Achieve a flatter stomach
- Shorten recovery time following strenuous activity
Mentally you can expect to:
- Gain body awareness
- Improve focus and stimulate the mind
- De-stress the body and mind
How does the Pilates 4 Runners book differ from other Pilates books on the market?
Like most of the books on the market today, all the exercises in this book are based on the work of Joseph Pilates. Unlike the other books on the market, the exercises in Pilates 4 Runners were chosen with the runner in mind and the common problems a runner faces. This book not only thoroughly teaches you about Pilates but it also teaches you why Pilates is important for the runner. This book is specifically designed to enhance the biomechanics of the runner, increase flexibility, build strength and help reduce the risk for common injuries associated with running.
If I have an injury can I still do Pilates?
Pilates can help in the prevention of injuries and also is effective after the initial phases of an injury have passed, to help heal, stretch and strengthen. Pilates is a safer, gentler, non-impact way to condition the body. However you should always consult your doctor before commencing any exercise program, especially if you have an injury.
