ABOUT PILATES
Benefits of Pilates
Pilates is a highly effective, holistic method of exercise, whose main focus
is on strengthening the “core” muscles: the abdominals, lower back
and buttocks. The controlled and graceful exercises create a strong, balanced
body with increased flexibility and endurance. More energy, greater ease of movement,
improved athletic performance and better mental focus, are only some of the numerous
benefits of the method.
Pilates for Men
Although Pilates is a rigorous and intelligent workout system created by a man
for other men (including professional boxers) it is currently more popular with
women.
Male elite athletes however, have been practicing Pilates for years and many
credit Pilates with improving their performance and preventing injuries.
Some of the elite male athletes who find Pilates indispensable include: PGA
Tour pro Rocco Mediate; Buffalo Bills Pro Bowl offensive guard Ruben Brown; Rich
Beem, winner of the 2002 PGA Championship; Jason Kidd, the New Jersey Nets superstar
point guard; Curt Schilling, starting pitcher for the Boston Red Socks and Pro
Golfer Charles Nardiello. 
In a USA Today article on Pilates for male athletes, Jason Kidd was quoted: "After
one session I was energized. From that point on I was convinced it was a great
workout. Pilates has made me quicker, more explosive"
Pilates for Golfers
Thanks to its focus on core strength and spinal flexibility, Pilates is an
ideal exercise program for golfers. Pilates disciples include David Duval, Annika
Sorenstam and Kelli Kuehne. Other devotees are Andrew McGee, Carin Koch, Grace
Park and Betsy King.
Pilates for Women
While Joseph Pilates’ original following included mainly dancers, professional
athletes and acrobats, Pilates has always had a wide following among women from
all walks of life. The method’s emphasis
on graceful, healthy movement
and toning without creating excess bulk is very appealing to many women. For
those in their childbearing years, the
core strength developed through Pilates
helps prepare for pregnancy and can speed post-partum recovery.
Pilates for Older Adults
Pilates is gentle on the joints, safe and highly effective, making it ideal for
older adults seeking to maintain an active, healthy lifestyle. Pilates improves
and maintains flexibility, strength, joint stability and balance, all of which
are of particular concern to older adults. Many Pilates practitioners enjoy Pilates
well into their 80’s and 90’s and credit Pilates with adding to their
vitality and quality of life.
