Pilates for Women
Pilates began with Joseph Pilates and with the dancers he taught. The exercises are accessible to all
and can be adapted to support any age and fitness level. Exercises can also be designed to support
other sports disciplines, such as netball, tennis, running and other forms of exercise or sports. Pilates
is a safe form of exercise (when supported with specialist advice) and can build bone strength and
support osteoporosis and other conditions.
Pilates can benefit
 Spinal pain
 Soft-tissue injuries
 Joint restriction
 Injury prevention
 Sports injuries
 Dance injuries
 Occupational overuse syndrome
 Antenatal and postnatal care
The aims of Pilates are
 Relaxation
 Concentration
 Alignment
 Coordination
 Breathing
Flowing movements
 Centring
 Endurance

Pilates focuses on developing the strength of the torso through appropriate use of the spinal
muscles, which act as vital support for the spine. The exercises control the body and in turn focuses
the mind. Pilates aims to work within a stable background through control of the spine, it can also
correct muscle imbalances and postural problems.
Pilates can help to correct any overactivity of muscle groups, for example if you lift regularly using
the muscles in your arms and shoulders, without a strong torso, you will create a weakness in the
stabilizers (the back and abdominal muscles). This could eventually cause injury in the arm and
shoulder muscles. The rest of the body may compensate for this weakness and therefore issues
could arise in other areas. Therefore, by a carefully designed programme of exercises, you can learn
to strengthen the torso, build core strength and support the body effectively. Pilates is often
recommended by chiropractors and physiotherapists for this reason.

Read more here: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/guide-to-pilates/