There is no greater treasure on earth other than a healthy mind and body. Obesity and all its associated ailments have emerged as a great threat challenging our health and wellbeing. Out of the many options available, Pilates for weight loss has emerged as one of most popular method due to its holistic approach to achieve proper coordination between the mind and body.
Pilates facilitates weight loss which can be achieved and maintained for longer periods. People have actually taken up Pilates for weight loss because of its correct fundamental approach which makes a lot of sense.
Pilates are aimed at building the ‘core’ muscles of the body. The thin layer of muscles found in the abdomen, back and pelvic region forms the ‘core’ of our body. This muscle mass is also referred as lean muscle mass and it plays an important role in burning away excess calories day in and day out. Pilates aims at building up the lean muscle mass in particular leading to weight loss effectively.
Typically any weight management program will aim at achieving a balance between the calorie consumption and utilization. Although, it is essential to restrict the consumption of excess calories, starving the body subjects it to strain, causing the release of hormone Cortisol which causes accumulation of fats and accelerates weight gain.
Pilates weight loss programs focuses on strength training the body causing the preservation and improvement in lean muscle mass which increases the metabolic rates causing weight loss.
What are the benefits of Pilates compared to other weight loss methods?
Compared to other weight loss methods which are strenuous, programs like Winsor Pilates is slow intensity exercise which helps to burn a lot of calories. Pilates conditioning for weight loss involves moves like Roll-Up, One-Leg-Circle and One-Leg-Stretch. All of them tend to support the abdominal muscles causing increase in lean muscle mass.
Pilate’s weight loss programs aim at co-coordinating the mind with the body. This is very unlike other strenuous exercises which drain of energy. The smooth and precise movements of Pilates revitalize the body and soul as a whole.
Since Pilates lays important emphasis on relaxation and breathing moments, it has been found useful in treating conditions like anxiety, stress and depression.
Different training equipment used in Pilates Exercises:
There is a variety of Pilate’s equipment available for the people who are willing to involve themselves in Pilates weight loss programs. They are briefly summarized below:
- Barrels: One can either opt for Ladder or Arc barrels. When participants lie across the barrel, the spine gets properly positioned and grabbing for the rugs help to improve flexibility.
- Pilates Balls: These balls help us to improve our sense of balance. Muscles of back can be specifically strengthened using this equipment.
- Pilates Chairs: Also referred to as ‘Wunda chair’ or a ‘Stability chair’, they use adjustable spring resistance and nearly 75 varieties of exercises can be performed using it.
- Pilates Reformer: This involves the use of springs, pulleys and straps to enhance the strength, endurance and flexibility levels.
The most important effect of Pilates conditioning for weight loss is body sculpturing or toning the body as whole, rather than affecting few concentrated areas. It affects the entire body improving the overall posture. Outfits suit better. It also improves flexibility and improves neuromuscular coordination. Considering all the above mentioned advantages, Pilates will remain an important method of weight loss.