The Pilates breathing really helps with core stability, especially as a general rule doing the strength part of the movement on the exhalation which helps engage the deep abdominals the transversus abdominals which then enables the lower back to be more supported
Pilates breathing helps relax & release tense tight muscles, two of the principles of Pilates is breathing & relaxation & when you do this constantly throughout your exercises you gain far more benefits as working & releasing the correct muscles is important, not something everyone can spot themselves until you have a lot of Pilates experience under your belt
Breathing helps the oxygenation you the blood and around the entire body & to the brain, Pilates breathing enables you to exercise with the maximum benefits of this, exercising with more clarity, concentration & energy. It allows the gas exchange of oxygen & carbon dioxide to be balanced & breathing out through the mouth helps with this but also relaxes the jaw & neck more too.
The core muscles are activated earlier during expiration, research by Hodges et al 1997, quoted by the APPI, one of the Pilates Associations.
Some beginners find it easier only moving on the out breath until they are strong enough to move on the in & out breath.
The breathing also helps you concentrate & switch off and is incredible for stress relief giving you a relaxed effect because have been so mindful & in the moment during your exercises. Some clients find it as good as meditation or relaxation. Yet combining the two is the icing on the cake!!
Love Bev
Beverley Densham
Pilates expert
Specialise in helping people with their backs to feel good
Www.pilatestofeelgood.com
Bev teaching Janey Lee Grace breathing, relaxation & Pilates, Author, radio 2 presenter