As it is known, the Pilates training system was based on 6 principles by its creator Joseph H. Pilates, which includes breathing as one of them.
Breathing is the first act we perform at birth and the last when we die.
It is a fundamental biological act, necessary to bring oxygen to the muscles and organs of our bodies, in order to carry out their functions effectively.
In itself, the oxygen we get from abroad is a kind of fuel to be able to live and perform our daily functions and give life to our organism.
The Importance of Breathing in Pilates
Breathing in Pilates is one of the main keys in the execution of each exercise, is always coordinated with the movement that is performed, thus trying to direct the energy to the zone that is being mobilized.
Good breathing helps to control movement and facilitates the stabilization of the spine, for the overall work of the extremities.
Each movement must be coordinated with a specific breath, according to each type of exercise.
In Pilates, it is inspired by the nose and exhaled through the mouth, which allows activation of the deep abdominal muscles, much superior when compared to the situation of exhaling through the nose and this is of interest to us to take into account.
There are several types of breathing, but fundamentally the diaphragm is in charge of it. The use of the diaphragm increases the vertical space of the chest, forcing inspiration due to the reduction of internal pressure.
It is necessary to highlight that nowadays there are several conditions and diseases that attack the human respiratory system, and one of them is asthma.
Asthma is a chronic condition of the lungs that inflames and narrows the airways, causing repeated wheezing (wheezing), chest pressure, difficulty breathing, and coughing, affecting people of all ages.
The Pilates Method helps because it calms the mind and lowers the level of stress hormones, increases proprioception and kinesthetic awareness of the individual who practices the method.
In addition, it improves muscle strength, posture, balance, breathing, and self-confidence.
It is essential that the Pilates Method is adjusted to the level of each student since the routine must be individualized and focused on their needs and requirements.
Therefore, training should not be too intense, initially, for people who have asthma and Pilates will help to find the necessary calm to control breathing.
With regular practice of the method exercises, the person will gain a deeper knowledge of their breathing pattern and how they can enhance their rib cage.
Pilates Benefits for Asthma
Start by working with nasal and slow breathing methods, with the aim of regulating the air intake and purifying it, through the respiratory system.
I have already talked about asthma and breathing, below I list some of the benefits obtained by people who practice the Pilates Method, when performing adequate breathing.
- Residual release of respiratory channels
- Transport of essential nutrients to the different tissues of the body
- It provides energy to the organs and muscles of the body, since oxygen is vital for this
- It allows the execution of the exercises in a more efficient way, thus achieving the correct activation of the muscles of the powerhouse
- Spinal stability
- Muscle control
- Mental clarity
The Pilates Method contains all the tools necessary to assist patients with asthma since it is a technique of re-education of movements, formed by exercises deeply linked with the improvement of posture and are able to restore and increase flexibility and muscle strength, improving breathing.
Considered as a clearly anaerobic exercise (slow or moderate) with a view to re-educating the patient’s functional respiratory mechanics, Pilates exercises should always be accompanied by a trained instructor, progressively seeking to obtain benefits from their students.