People of all ages, body types, and fitness levels have had great results from doing Pilates including professional dancers and athletes. The benefits of Pilates include improved posture and the development of long, lean muscles and a strong core as well as increased flexibility. The more health related benefits include increased lung capacity and circulation as well as rehabilitation after injury. Athletes and dancers especially have found that Pilates increases their strength and also helps to prevent injury.
Pilates is a safe exercise system focused on strengthening weaker muscles and elongating the body rather than building bulk. It is a series of precise movements that emphasizes proper breathing, spinal and pelvic alignment, core strength and good quality movement rather than repetition. With the use of special equipment, Pilates is designed to stretch and strengthen the body while also relieving stress.