There are some, and I am not one, who believe that Pilates exercise has seen its heyday and is dipping in its popularity. I could point to the fact that there are now thousands of certified instructors nationwide and thousands more worldwide and more coming every day. I can tell you that Pilates classes are still as crowded as ever and that gyms in every state have Pilates classes on their roster. I can tell you that eight out of ten Physical Therapists in the USA have had some training in Pilates because they think it enhances the quality of their service. I can write here all the reasons why I think Pilates is still hot, but more important might be to simply revisit the benefit of a Pilates practice.
First the physical evidence: Improved strength, better balance, increased flexibility, increased upper and lower body strength and increased core strength.
Second is the mental benefits: Increased breath control, increased body-awareness, better proprioception, better mental focus, and an overall feeling of well-being.
Pilates enhances all workouts and can stand on its own or bump up your present program. It can be portable and equipment-free or performed on fascinating and highly original equipment. It’s fun and serious all at the same time. Everyone can do it from seniors to athletes to the sister of a duchess (see: Pippa’s bottom). Remember, Pilates has been around for decades and it is not going anywhere anytime soon. Perhaps it is simply becoming more mainstream and we, as the fit and healthy public, are just becoming used to seeing it on schedules or hearing of friends who take lessons. Pilates and its host of benefits is not lacking in popularity, it has quietly become just a part of the family.
