The Spanish Flu Epidemic and Pilates – A Workout to Help Maintain Health
How did Pilates come to be? We must start by getting to know the person who created the Pilates method. He was a man born in Germany who struggled with many illnesses from childhood – including asthma and rickets. However, his determination and perseverance allowed him to overcome his physical limitations through exercise. He started with gymnastics and bodybuilding, and over time added diving and skiing to his repertoire. As a result, at just 14 years old, he posed for anatomical drawings. Who are we talking about? It is Joseph Pilates.
At the age of 32, Pilates emigrated to London for work purposes. At that time, World War I broke out, and as a foreigner, he was interned on the Isle of Man. There, he perfected his exercises and taught others, as well as worked with injured soldiers. His method excellently helped injured soldiers regain mobility and taught them body control along with movement precision. In 1918, the influenza pandemic known as the Spanish flu broke out. A surprising phenomenon was that everyone who exercised with Joseph survived the epidemic and was the only group not affected by the disease.
Pilates strengthens the immune system
The Spanish flu pandemic was the worst disaster that occurred during those years. To illustrate the situation – this flu killed more people than were lost in both World War I and II combined. It is estimated that this number ranged from 40 to even 100 million people. One-third of the globe was infected. Therefore, it was fascinating that the soldiers trained by Pilates had immunity to this flu. The truth is that if your immune system functions properly, your body is healthy and strong, you will experience all infections much more mildly or avoid them altogether.
The exercise model created by Pilates perfectly strengthens the immune system. How is this possible? A person’s ability to fight viruses and infections depends on the body’s lymphatic system. However, the circulation of lymph is dependent on the work of the muscles of the musculoskeletal system. And Pilates excellently activates two specific muscles primarily responsible for lymph circulation.
The first of these two muscles is the transverse abdominal muscle, which works in practically every exercise created by Pilates. It is responsible for maintaining a healthy spine, as well as improving breathing and circulation. The other muscles are the calf muscles, which also work during many exercises, improving lymph circulation. It seems that the foundations of Pilates are crucial for improving the body’s immunity.
Pilates for better and worse
Is it worth practicing Pilates? The answer to this question has already been given above. Not only will you take care of your body, musculoskeletal system, and its proper functioning, but thanks to regular exercise, you will improve your immunity to viruses and infections. Training will make all infections much milder for you, and in the case of illness – you will recover faster.
Good health – in today’s world – is the foundation of optimal functioning. Thanks to it, you can work, travel, and enjoy life to the fullest – without any limitations. If you want to keep your health in good shape, it is worth considering exercises that are appropriately tailored to your abilities. So what should you choose? Regardless of your fitness level, Pilates will work for you.
I am a graduate in Managerial Economics as well as Finance and Accounting, with a specialization in Marketing. Since 2018, I have been working as a Copywriter at Balanced Body, where I create marketing content for the fitness and Pilates industries. One of my particular strengths is translating complex topics into accessible language and accurately analyzing the needs of target audiences. Outside of work, I am passionate about fire shows and volleyball, which helps me better understand the needs of physically active people.