The benefits of Pilates for your mind, body and spirit

Have you ever asked yourself how do I become a Pilates instructor? If you’re reading this now, then chances are you’re considering this as a career. Pilates is a great foundation from which to add on other more strenuous forms of exercise, providing flexibility and strength that can help buffer your body against the negative effects of harsh exercise like running or heavy weight training.

Pilates helps build strength and long lean muscles. Many athletes and celebrities incorporate Pilates into their fitness regime to help sculpt a lean and strong physique.

Pilates has many benefits for mind, body and spirit. On the physical level, you can expect to see improvements in posture and flexibility while building up the core’ or powerhouse’, those deep muscles that wrap around the abdominal area and back. Over time you will notice inner peace and quiet strength from it. If you don’t believe me, then try it for yourself!

Elements of yoga and tai-chi are evident in the breathing techniques used in some of the Pilates mat exercises and if done correctly, can alleviate stress, reduce tension and help us to develop awareness of our bodies. The founder of Pilates, Joseph Pilates said Even if you follow no other instructions, learn to breathe correctly.

Pilates brings about an awareness of your body, especially in the core abdominal area. Through mastering the techniques of each exercise together with the breathing, the core is strengthened resulting in better posture and decreases in back and shoulder pain.

Don’t be fooled into thinking it’s an easy form of exercise. It can be more difficult than intense cardio workouts or weight training you’ll discover muscles you never knew existed!

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AIF

The Australian Institute of Fitness

The Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF) is the largest and longest established fitness training organisation in Australia, with dynamic training methods and expert course coaches nationwide - spanning fitness, massage and nutrition. The AIF qualifies more fitness professionals than any other provider in Australia, as well as offering a broad range of continuing education courses (CEC), upskilling resources and partnership programs for existing industry.