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Core conditioning
There are many different forms of core conditioning exercise programmes. What they share is a focus on strengthening the centre of the body, particularly the abdominal muscles, lower back and cardiovascular systems. The idea behind core conditioning is that the body is treated as a whole and that stamina is built up slowly thereby lessening the risk of injury.
Pilates is a form of core conditioning that has exploded in popularity. There are two main types. One that involves exercising on a mat and one that includes using gym equipment.
The idea behind both is that resistance is used to build muscle strength. The focus however is on breathing, balance and coordination. While strength is key, it's not just about building large muscles. Instead the aim is to bring your whole body into balance so that you feel energised and more relaxed. Breathing is a key element as it helps with the flow of oxygen around the body. This is similar to yoga although the emphasis is more on exercise.
By focussing on the muscles of your back and stomach, you are getting fit from the inside out. The aim being to reach muscles that are often neglected and to tone your whole body overall. This can be very useful for improving your posture as well as increasing your flexibility and coordination. It's also a way to reduce stress by easing tension in the back and neck. It can also offer relief from back pain or chronic muscle pain. It's not generally an aggressive form of exercise and a good instructor will adapt sessions to suit your needs as an individual.
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