About Pre-Pilates Exercises

Pilates is a popular form of exercise because of its challenging simplicity. The exercises can be performed almost anywhere, but mastery of said exercises is quite a challenge. Of course, it would be best if an individual could just jump straight into an existing Pilates routine, but what happens where, for whatever reason, the rigors of normal Pilates prove too difficult? In that case, pre-Pilates provides a rescue. You might have heard the term bandied about, but what is pre-Pilates? How do you know if pre-Pilates is right for you? What are some sample exercises? Following are the essentials.

  1. About Pilates

    • Pilates is a popular exercise program combining moves from gymnastics, yoga and dance, in addition to a plethora of moves wholly unique. Pilates works to give the participant enhanced muscle tone, body awareness, core strength (abdominals, obliques and lower back) and increased flexibility. Pilates can also be used to rehabilitate muscle and joint injuries. The exercises are divided into levels, with different objectives for beginner, intermediate and advanced participants.

    About Pre-Pilates

    • For some, even the beginner Pilates exercises will prove too challenging at first. Although the human body is a remarkably adaptive machine, it must be challenged progressively to grow. In other words, there is no sense in beating one's head against an immovable wall attempting to perform an exercise that is currently impossible. Where the challenge of even beginner Pilates is beyond one's ability, she may first begin with pre-Pilates. Pre-Pilates is a series of exercises designed to enhance the aforementioned characteristics to a level allowing for successful progression to a beginners' routine.

    Sample Pre-Pilates Exercises

    • What follows are a series of basic pre-Pilates exercises that can be performed by anyone, anywhere.

      Shoulder rolls may be performed while standing or sitting. Hold the rest of the body stationary and slowly bring one shoulder in a full circle (forward, up, backwards and down). Repeat with the other shoulder and continue alternating for a combined total of 10 repetitions.

      Castanets may also be performed while standing or sitting. Hold your hands out to the front with palms facing upwards. Beginning with your thumb, touch it to the center of your palm a total of five times. Proceed to the index finger and continue until all fingers of both hands have been exercised.

    Sample Exercises Continued

    • The towel exercise must be performed while sitting on the floor with your legs outstretched in front. Place a towel under your toes and legs. Using the arches of the foot, gather the towel towards you, then push it back out again. Repeat three to five times.

      The simple desk stretch can be performer while standing or sitting at one's desk. It entails taking the right arm and stretching it across the chest by holding it with the left hand. At the same time stretch the neck by bringing the right ear to the right shoulder. Hold for 10 seconds then repeat on the other side. Repeat both sides a total of three times each.

    Considerations

    • If you are looking for an exercise program but are intimidated by more traditional workouts, pre-Pilates might just be for you. The exercises are basic but comprehensive, and with due diligence they will strengthen the body and allow progression to other, more advanced, programs. There is no shame in beginning with the basics so long as an earnest effort is made to progress and improve. Through a combination of diet and exercise with pre-Pilates, one can come a few steps closer to their ideal figure.