Pilates and Its Myths

Myth – I’m not flexible at all. I can’t do Pilates.
With an experienced instructor, Pilates is a good workout for people with a varied range of physical attributes and needs. From the athlete who is looking for more efficiency in a sport, to the sedentary office worker with terrible posture, to people suffering from injuries and challenging physical conditions, Pilates is the safest, yet most effective way to exercise.  Pilates is gentle on the joints and because of the variety of exercises available, is suitable for anyone. Flexible or not, you can do this!
Myth – Pilates is only for your abs. It is for people who want a six-pack.
Yeah. If it were only that easy. Pilates focuses on working the entire body. We do admit you’ll probably develop very good core strength. But it does a bunch of other things as well – it will align your spine, give you better posture, increase flexibility, strengthen underlying muscles and help you focus on better breathing. All this so you can use your body more productively while doing all the activities you love to do.
Myth – Pilates is only for women
Pilates has never been “just for women.” Just ask Lebron James and Tiger Woods! In fact, before Pilates was adapted for everyone, it was originally designed to rehabilitate injured male soldiers!  As Pilates is adaptable to different levels of fitness and body types, and with the variety of exercises available, it helps men and women equally.
Myth – I already work out at a gym. I don’t need Pilates too.
Pilates focuses more on heightened mind-body awareness. The flex of every muscle is made in conjunction with purposeful breathing. Pilates is a structured, progressive workout to make under lying muscles stronger while minimizing the strain on joints and ligaments. Can’t a regular gym workout do this?  Possibly…but unless you know exactly how to perform an exercise exactly how your own body needs it, you’ll mostly likely end up doing more damage then good.
Myth – Aren’t Pilates and Yoga the same thing?
Pilates is not a derivative of Yoga. Pilates and Yoga are very complimentary practices and have certain things like body and mind awareness, and consciousness of breath in common. Pilates emphasizes building strength in underlying muscles and while yoga has amazing physical benefits, building strength is not necessarily one of them.  You’ll quickly see the difference if you try a class!
For more information contact Complete Pilates & Fitness at 661-208-8900 or visit www.completepilatesfitness.com.