Today we host for our fitness section the article by Gabriele, creator of the  Smart Workout site : he will talk about the Pilates method to  stay in shape by improving our muscle tone.  

The Pilates method , which takes its name from the founder Joseph Pilates , is a particular gymnastics that aims to teach how to keep a correct posture and make all the movements of our body more fluid and harmonious. The main objective is, in fact, to make the individual aware of the potential of his body, to have greater control of it and a better interaction with everything that surrounds him. Initially developed as a bodyweight gymnastics, subsequently its inventor decided to apply it to all those inpatient patients who still could not get out of bed, in order to improve their muscle tone. In order to do this, he used beds in which springs were inserted, used as resistances for the movements.

The peculiarity of the Pilates method is that it is based on a real philosophy that involves a series of interrelated exercises that affect the whole body. If you decide you want to improve your posture and your muscle tone, then, I absolutely recommend that you approach this gymnastics that will guarantee you optimal development of all your body parts. If followed by qualified teachers, you will see how your movements will become more fluid and harmonious , the tension in the back will disappear and all those problems related to incorrect posture will improve. You must know that the Pilates method is based on a series of basic principles such as:
– concentration: each exercise that takes place is not dedicated to a single specific part but the whole body and, for this reason, it is important that you maintain a high level of concentration in order to be able to control it correctly;

– control:  it is essential to be able to control every single movement, to avoid injuries;

– fluidity of movement:  you must learn to perform each exercise in a harmonious and relaxed way: if you have enough strength in your body center of gravity, then all your gestures will be graceful and perfectly controlled;

– precision:  it is essential that you do what your teacher explains to the letter, in order to use your body correctly and in a balanced way);