Getting to the CORE of Pilates by Chanda Fetter

So what’s the buzz about? Pilates seems to be popping up everywhere. There’s a reason for this, Pilates is not just the latest fitness craze but has a history of success behind it that dates back decades. 

The Hard CORE Facts. Simply stated, Pilates is a program that focuses on strengthening your core, but what exactly makes up your core, and why is it so important for you to strengthen it? Your core represents all the muscles located below the ribcage and above the hips. This region of our anatomy is made up of abdominal and back muscles that work together to maintain a healthy spinal position. Due to a sedentary lifestyle, inactivity and high stress levels, people seem to be experiencing more back pain than ever before. When abdominal and back muscles become weak, the integrity of the spine becomes challenged. Most twinges occur while doing something trivial like reaching down to pick something up. When these mishaps occur, the insufficient support of the spine results in potential back spasms and misalignment of spinal segments.  Research has shown that strengthening our abdominal and spinal muscles helps maintain spinal integrity therefore making it less vulnerable to injury.

The Basics. Pilates is offered in two forms, floor work (otherwise referred to as Pilates MAT), or by machine (Pilates Reformer). Floor work is generally offered in a group setting where an instructor takes several students through a series of exercises performed mostly on the floor. The only drawback to this option is the lack of individual hands-on attention; it may require more patience and repetition by way of the student to truly grasp the concepts of each exercise. Reformer training utilizes the Pilates Reformer machine, and not only strengthens and targets your core it also integrates all over body strengthening. Reformer training is most often conducted on a one on one basis with the specific individual’s goals and abilities in mind. Regardless of the method you choose, make sure you check that your trainer is certified through a reputable organization. Impostors are everywhere in this fitness industry and you want to make sure that your body is treated properly so that your results remain positive.

People are living healthier lives with less pain and discomfort as a result of their dedication to a Pilates program. Make the commitment to feel better, look better and most importantly function better!

Chanda Fetter
www.imxsb.com
IM=X Pilates Studio, Owner
IM=X Pilates Master Trainer
ACE, NASM, TRX, SPIN, IMX
NAWBO Board Member