Top Pilates Parables and the Real Truths Behind Them

Pilates is a fun and interesting way to get fit. However, because it is quite different from other fitness regiments, there are quite a few common misconceptions about this unique way of exercise. Sometimes, these misconceptions could be holding people back who could greatly benefit from all that Pilates has to offer. Here are some of the top Pilates parables and the real truth behind them:

1. Pilates was developed based on the Asian mind-body exercise of yoga. This is false! Joseph Pilates created this unique way of exercise in the 1920s as a way to rehabilitate injured soldiers in WWI. Soon, the exercises were adapted for dancers. While both Pilates and yoga require a mind-body connection, Pilates is more physical while yoga offers more zen-like mysticism. Plus, many of the moves are quite different and Pilates also uses spring resistance machines.

2. Pilates is a no-brainer and even couch potatoes could do it easily. Wrong! Pilates is a very physical exercise discipline. It has to be because of the mind over body connection. You have to be totally aware of your body ? how the spine aligns and how you hold the rest of your body ? in order to achieve any results.

Pilates is quite adaptable for various physical limitations which is why some people probably believe it is easy and wimpy people would have no problem. Because the exercises move at a slow pace to ensure every target muscle is being used properly, the illusion is that they are easy. Nothing could be further from the truth! You must have great flexibility and balance to pull off Pilates effortlessly. Just the concentration alone between the body and mind precludes wimpy people from being successful in Pilates.

3. Pilates was created for tone the abdominal muscles. This is totally not true! Ok, Pilates does tone the abdominal muscles creating definition and strength, but that is not all it does. Remember, Joseph Pilates created this exercise program as a way to rehabilitate injured soldiers. Therefore, the focus is on creating a strong core of muscles along the trunk of the body which include the spine, abdominals, pelvic area, and even hamstrings.

4. Pilates is a girly exercise program. Wrong! Pilates was developed by a man for soldiers (who were men) that required rehabilitation. The exercises that encompass Pilates are not gender based at all. This misconception got started because Pilates became popular with dancers, particularly ballet dancers, many of whom are women. Many women practice Pilates in fitness studios and gyms but as Pilates grows in popularity and more people understand its beneficial properties, more men will get started too.

5. Pilates is easy and anyone can teach it. This is entirely false! Pilates is very involved and requires intense concentration, focus, and knowledge of the human body. Only qualified instructors can teach Pilates so if you are interested in taking a class, ask the instructor where they got their start and earned their credentials.

Pilates is very beneficial to the body. However, you must have determination and dedication in order to learn it properly to maximize the benefits your body will reap.