Pilates, is a form of exercise that was first invented and named after Joseph Pilates at that beginning on the 20th Century. Pilates is a series of exercises primary based on engaging the core of the body, Joseph Pilates called this area the Powerhouse, and is especially concerned with the inner muscles of the abdomen.

Joseph used his experiences with Yoga and Zen to develop his method further, by involving the power of the mind and spirit in as much as the physical body. Pilates exercises require thought, and concentration toward and during the execution of each exercise. Every movement needs to be carefully controlled to maximum effect; it’s more about quality rather than quantity.

During the early part of the history of Pilates, when Joseph’s move to New York saw the continued development the exercise and invention of his Universal Reformer the form of exercise remained a secret from the masses, unlike today! Pilates exercises were concerned with rehabilitation of illness and injury, but it’s popularity soared amongst of dancers to keep them on form, and was highly praised and supported by the founders of the New York City Ballet, and the exercise remained a secret amongst the dancing professionals.

Today in recent years the popularity of Pilates has soared and has undergone many adaptations but its fundamental principles remain the same. One such adaptation is with mat work, where Pilates exercises that have been developed and adapted so they can be performed without the need for the original Pilates Reformer.

A few mat based Pilates exercises fixed into your Cycling regime will do wonders! I’d recommended that you’d fit a couple of exercises into your cool down stretch. By executing a few Pilates exercises you’ll begin to explore, properly control, strengthen, and correctly use your body’s muscles, and as cycling is such a great form of exercises for aerobically strengthening your core, coupled with Pilates you’ll soon notice a big difference!

Further Reading