Pilates

You've just signed up for your first Pilates class - do you have any idea what to expect? Pilates is different from just about anything else you've ever done, so read on to get an idea of what to expect from your first class.

First and foremost, you should be aware that Pilates is an intense class that incorporates exercises and stretches for your abdominal, leg, arm and back muscles. While some of the movements are slow and controlled, others are very fast. A typical class lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, and should work all areas of your body.

There are three types of Pilates, the most popular of which is the mat workout. This class uses gravity and your own body weight to create resistance. There are also some Pilates classes that incorporate weights, and finally those that use special equipment developed by Joseph Pilates.

So how is Pilates different from other workouts? Whereas most forms of training work one muscle group at a time, Pilates is built around a series of controlled movements that work muscles in several positions. This is especially beneficial for developing your core muscles - those in and around the pelvis, abdominals, and low back - which can help to improve overall posture.

Pilates has grown in popularity lately, and while it is suitable for anyone, there are some applications for which it is highly beneficial, including:

• Developing core strength and body awareness
• Injury prevention
• Rehabilitation
• The elderly
• Pre and post natal women
• Athletes and dancers