Research out recently concluded that taking drugs for back pain is largely pointless.
"Scientists found that taking Anti-inflammatory pills such as ibuprofen made so little difference that most people would not notice the effect." The Times, 2017
The research found that exercise is usually recommended instead, which for some patients could include Pilates.
Ellie and Jenni, Pilates Instructors at City Way Health Clinic, share their Top 10 Facts about Pilates, which you may not have known:
- Pilates is not a form of yoga. Pilates is a system by itself
- Pilates is based on the belief that ‘the way exercises are done is more important than the exercises themselves’.
- Pilates is for anyone, not just women. It is a gentle form of exercise which is mainly performed in sitting or reclining positions and thus low impact. We also run Pre & Post Natal classes.
- Breathing is the key. Pilates involves slow movement and a series of exercises along with attention to proper breathing techniques.
- If you already train then Pilates can benefit your training by lengthening muscles and bringing an added flexibility which will help you to avoid injury. Many professional athletes practice Pilates as part of their training to improve performance and balance the body.
- It is recommended that 2-3 sessions a week will enable you to see the benefits, however some will benefit from just once a week.
- The essence of Pilates is resistance training, which is scientifically proven to create lean muscle and speed up your metabolism to burn calories all day long!
- Contrology is Pilates' second name. When practicing Pilates you should be in constant "control" of each and every movement.
- Celebrities swear by Pilates...and if its good enough for them, its certainly good enough for us
Not sure if Pilates is for you? Come and have a trial class - £15 for 30 minutes one to one or one to two if you want to bring a friend.