You may have heard about Pilates and that has probable left you curios, you may even have thought about whether you should take it u or not. Originally Pilates was invented by Joseph Pilates to rehabilitate war veterans. Today millions of people are practicing Pilates. You can also be one of them. To help you decide whether it is for you, I present to you 10 reasons why you should take up Pilates

1. Pilates Strengthens Your Core

The main benefit from practicing Pilates is specifically that it strengthens the core muscles (the muscles of the abs, hip flexors and lower back). A strong core will ensure that you have flat abs, and that you can play better sport and move around easier.

2. Makes you flexible

You will be super flexible from regular Pilates practice.

3. Lengthens your muscles

Pilates lengthens the muscles resulting in a longer and leaner look.

4. Increased energy

Your energy levels will be up and you will feel more alive

5. Faster metabolism

A faster metabolism is also part of the many benefits of Pilates. This will result in you burning more calories and fat in the poses.

6. Decreased fat percentage

Your fat percentage will also drop with regular Pilates practice

7. Increased lean muscle mass

Your lean muscle mass will also increase and you will develop sleek muscles

8. Decrease in stress and anxiety

Exercise like Pilates increases the production of feel good hormones resulting in reduced stress and anxiety

9. A defined and toned body.

Your whole body will become more toned and defined

10. Firms up your whole body

In particular the muscles that will mostly benefit are your glutes (buttocks), your abs and legs. Some of the Pilates classes and machines also tones and defines the upper body.

The reasons given are sure to have you wanting to do Pilates right away. There are a number of ways that you can practice Pilates – on your own with a DVD or book, attend a Pilates class or you can always buy yourself Pilates machines or equipment. You can even play a Pilates game on your Wii console, one like the Daisy Fuentes pilates workout game. The ellen croft’s supreme pilates machine is one of the best to try out. And you are sure to have an excellent workout.