Pilates Exercises

Low-impact Pilates exercises help improve balance and posture alongside many other functional benefits. Certified Pilates instructor and Physical Therapist Gigi Malvas, RPT, CLT, and the team at Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab, in North Port, Florida, use Pilates exercises as part of comprehensive and personalized rehabilitation plans. To explore the benefits of Pilates, call Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab, or book an appointment online today.

What is Pilates?

Pilates is a form of exercise that uses low-impact movements to improve your flexibility, strength, and endurance. The team at Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab often recommends Pilates as one of several practices to help you recover from an injury.

This form of body conditioning has been in use since the 1920s and continues to draw new interest every year. Originally created for athletes, soldiers, and dancers, Pilates can benefit anyone, including seasoned athletes and average individuals with minimal experience in such exercises.

Pilates exercises focus on the core muscles in your abdomen and back. With flowing movements and breath control, you can build up many muscles while simultaneously enjoying many health and wellness benefits.

What are the principles of Pilates?

Pilates operates under six principles. The team at Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab can elaborate on each of these principles and tell you how they apply to your rehabilitation.

The six principles of Pilates are:

• Centering
• Concentration
• Control
• Precision
• Breath
• Flow

The team helps you perfect each of these aspects as you engage in Pilates exercises for rehabilitation. With time and training, you can improve your Pilates techniques to enjoy maximum benefits from the exercises.

What are the benefits of Pilates?

The team at Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab often uses Pilates in treatment because of its long list of benefits for your health, wellness, and function. While your training will differ from someone else’s, depending on your needs and goals, generally, Pilates exercises help achieve these results:

• Improved strength
• Improved flexibility
• Improved endurance
• Better circulation
• Decreased back pain
• Better posture
• Improved balance and stability
• Weight management

Whether your main objective is to ease pain or you just want to improve your athleticism, Pilates is a very effective form of exercise.

If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of Pilates further, call Step Up Physical Therapy and Rehab or schedule a consultation online today. Additionally, if you have difficulty leaving your home to seek physical therapy treatment, we are able to provide services at your home through our partnership with local home health agencies. Feel free to inquire with our staff about this option.