Pilates for Treatment and Recovery

Pilates is a form of exercise that has been gaining in popularity since its development in the first part of the 20th century. This system affects the mind as well as the body and was created by Joseph Pilates. It was built on the idea that the mind can be used to manipulate the muscles. Joseph Pilates was a firm believer that the body and the mind are tightly linked, so he developed this exercise system with that belief as its core. There are six main principles of Pilates:

• Concentration
• Control
• Center
• Flow
• Precision
• Breathing

The Practice of Pilates

This program began as exercises using a mat, but as time went on it evolved and a variety of apparatuses came into use that helped people get the most out of the practice of Pilates. When these apparatuses are used, more resistance is felt in the muscles while exercising. These days, those who practice Pilates are using more and more gadgets. Pilates has come to be split into two different styles: the method that sticks to the original standards in both equipment and style outlined by Joseph Pilates; and the newer style that diverged from the original format — Contemporary/Modern Pilates.

Using Pilates in Treating Cancer

Pilates is an ideal form of exercise for people to get stronger and more flexible as well as learn to control their bodies. But Pilates is more and more being used as a way to treat a number of health issues. For people with cancer, Pilates has the benefits of increasing energy levels. The exercise program can also provide a calming effect and decrease the anxieties that come with a diagnosis of cancer. Not only that, Pilates can improve a cancer patient’s overall physical and mental well-being.

Using Pilates in Treating Mesothelioma

It is thought that Pilates may boost the effectiveness of the conventional treatments for patients with mesothelioma. When treatments are more effective, life expectancy is prolonged. Since traditional treatments for mesothelioma include radiation and chemotherapy, regular Pilates sessions can be important in helping to overcome the fatigue caused by these treatments. Pilates and other exercise programs can stimulate the body’s immune system as well. A stronger immune system can help the body resist other illnesses.

Regular exercise regimens are often prescribed these days for people who have suffered heart attacks. Now cancer patients are likely to be asked to do the same to help with their own recovery. There aren’t many exercise programs that can give a patient the same benefits to mind and body that Pilates can. This makes it the perfect choice of exercise for mesothelioma patients. But these patients should be sure that they choose an experienced and qualified instructor for their Pilates. Because it has become so popular, more and more amateur instructors are popping up who may not be qualified to help a patient who has cancer.